Photo: Kurt Stüber [1], CC BY-SA 3.0 · source
Pruning guide · Fern
Soft shield fern: when and how to prune
Polystichum setiferum
Soft shield fern is best pruned in March.
| Pruning months | March |
|---|---|
| Native to Belgium | Yes |
Soft shield fern: when to prune it?
In March, just before the new croziers unfurl.
What else to prune in those months? March
Soft shield fern: how to prune it?
- Cut last year’s fronds off at the base, just above the crown.
- This shows off the new, silvery-brown croziers and makes the plant look fresh again.
- Take care not to damage the young croziers in the centre.
- During the season, only cut off damaged or brown fronds.
How much to cut, and how often?
- One pruning period a year: March.
What does it mean for wildlife?
- As a native plant, it feeds more insects than a non-native species.
Nearby: related pruning guides
- Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides)
- Hard shield fern
- Japanese tassel fern (Polystichum polyblepharum)
- Korean rock fern (Polystichum tsus-simense)
- Western sword fern (Polystichum munitum)
Plant profile: Soft shield fern · Pruning calendar and basic rules
This guide is compiled from the Bladwijzer plant profile and pruning calendar.