male fern

Male ferns (Dryopteris filix-mas 'Crispatissima') require moist soil to stay healthy, so regular watering is essential. During the warm summer months, provide the fern with about 1 inch of water a week, either from rainfall or from a thorough watering. If rainfall is lacking, water deeply every other week. In cooler months, water the fern only when the soil dries out. Keep the soil constantly moist during the spring and fall, when new fronds are forming. Reduce watering during the winter months and only water when the soil is dry to the touch.

Male fern (Dryopteris filix-mas 'Crispatissima') does best when it is provided with bright, indirect sunlight or partial shade. In general, it prefers 4 to 6 hours of bright, indirect sunlight a day and can do well in areas filtered with tree foliage. During the summer months, the fern can take some early morning or late afternoon sun as long as the heat of the day is avoided. Avoiding direct sunlight in the afternoon is particularly important as too much sun can cause the fronds to become bleached or burned. Avoiding full shade is also important; while male fern can tolerate some full shade, too much shade can cause the fronds to become pale and limp. For optimal growing conditions, provide male fern with a balance of sun and shade throughout the day.

Male ferns (Dryopteris filix-mas 'Crispatissima') should be pruned in early spring or late winter when new growth emerges. Start by removing any dead fronds and foliage and any discoloured or damaged leaves. Trim the fronds to the ground to keep the plant looking neat and tidy, and then cut off any creeping fronds and overgrowth. For tall specimens, a gentle pruning of the outer fronds can help to keep the size in check. Make sure you use sharp and sterilized garden tools to avoid damaging the fronds and stems. Prune when necessary, but avoid pruning too often or too heavily which can stress the plant.