Ferns and Tree Ferns

Caring for Tree Ferns
Tree ferns are beautiful, tropical-looking plants that can add a touch of the exotic to your garden. However, they do require some specific care to thrive.
General Care
Sunlight: Tree ferns prefer dappled shade or partial shade. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, especially during the hottest parts of the day.
Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water the crown of the plant as well as the base and the trunk.
Soil: Tree ferns prefer rich, well-draining soil. You can improve the soil by adding organic matter such as compost or soil conditioner.
Feeding: Feed your tree fern during the growing season (spring and summer) with a high nitrogen liquid feed into crown (we sell a tree fern feed that we highly recommend for this) every 4-6 weeks for best results.

Frost Damage
If your tree fern has experienced frost, you might notice brown or black tips on the fronds, or the fronds may be completely withered. Don’t panic! As long as the crown has been well protected with fleece or straw then then the loss of exposed fronds wont be an issue for the overall health of your tree fern. Prune away any severely damaged fronds, this will help the plant focus its energy on regrowing healthy foliage.
If you live in an area with harsh winters, consider providing extra protection for your tree fern during the coldest months. This could include wrapping the trunk in burlap or moving it to a sheltered location
Additional Tips
Mulching: Mulching around the base of the tree fern can help retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Pests and Diseases: Tree ferns are generally pest and disease resistant. However, you should keep an eye out for scale insects and mealybugs.