Photo: Photo by and (c)2006 Derek Ramsey (Ram-Man). Location credit to the Chanticleer Garden., CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Houseplant
Asparagus fern: when and how to prune
Asparagus setaceus
Asparagus fern is best pruned in March–April.
| Pruning months | March–April |
|---|---|
| Poisonous to people and pets | Yes, take care with children and pets |
Asparagus fern: when to prune it?
In March–April, when repotting. Dead stems can be removed at any time of year.
Asparagus fern: how to prune it?
- Cut bare, yellow or dried-out stems right back to the base; new shoots will come from the rootstock.
- If the whole plant has gone bare, cut all stems back to just above the compost: it usually regrows fresh.
- Shorten overlong climbing stems to keep the plant compact.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: March–April.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- A houseplant lives indoors, so wildlife hardly notices the pruning. Healthy clippings can go on the compost.
Caution: Wear gloves: the stems have fine spines. Asparagus fern is poisonous: wear gloves and keep clippings away from children, pets and livestock.
Nearby: related pruning guides
Plant profile: Asparagus fern · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.