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Pruning guide · Fern
Soft tree fern: when and how to prune
Dicksonia antarctica
Soft tree fern is best pruned in April.
| Pruning months | April |
|---|---|
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Soft tree fern: when to prune it?
In April–May, once the winter protection is off and frost is over. Only remove dead fronds.
What else to prune in those months? April
Soft tree fern: how to prune it?
- Cut off brown, dead fronds, leaving a stub of a few centimetres on the trunk.
- Leave green fronds, even if slightly damaged: the plant needs them to grow.
- Only remove the protection when no more hard frost is expected.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: April.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- Don’t cut more than you need to: what stays standing gives insects and birds food and shelter.
Caution: Never cut into the heart of the crown: that is where the plant’s only growing point sits.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Soft tree fern · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.