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Pruning guide · Fern
Common polypody: when and how to prune
Polypodium vulgare
Common polypody is best pruned in May–June.
| Pruning months | May–June |
|---|---|
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Common polypody: when to prune it?
In late May–June, when the new fronds appear. Otherwise it needs no pruning.
Common polypody: how to prune it?
- Cut off only the old, worn or brown fronds at the base; healthy green fronds can stay.
- Do not cut it back in March as with many other ferns: the plant would then stay bare until summer, because the new fronds come late.
- On a wall or in a tree you can simply let it be.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: May–June.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Common polypody · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.