Photo: Jami Dwyer, CC BY-SA 2.0 · source
_001.jpg){kind=link}
Pruning guide · Fern
Western sword fern (Polystichum munitum): when and how to prune
Polystichum munitum
Western sword fern (Polystichum munitum) is best pruned in March.
| Pruning months | March |
|---|---|
| Native to Belgium | No, planted |
Western sword fern (Polystichum munitum): when to prune it?
In March, before the new croziers unfurl. Otherwise this fern needs no pruning.
What else to prune in those months? March
Western sword fern (Polystichum munitum): how to prune it?
- Cut off brown, damaged and flattened fronds at the base; healthy green fronds can stay.
- For a fresh-looking clump, cut off all the old fronds just above the crown every few years.
- Work carefully around the scaly croziers in the centre: they are the new fronds.
- Wear gloves: the fronds are stiff and their edges finely toothed.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: March.
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: Do not wait until late April: once the new fronds are out, it is easy to cut them off by mistake.
Nearby: related pruning guides
- Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides)
- Hard shield fern
- Japanese tassel fern (Polystichum polyblepharum)
- Korean rock fern (Polystichum tsus-simense)
- Soft shield fern
Plant profile: Western sword fern (Polystichum munitum) · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.