At a glance
Care Level
Foliage
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
Eventual height and spread
Height - 0.5m
Width - 0.5m
It reaches full growth in 10 years
General care for English Maidenhair Fern
Foliage
Green
Aspect
Partial - Shade
Cut back
Autumn
Divide
Not Required
Dead head
Spring - Winter
Feed
Spring
Seasonal guide to care for your
English Maidenhair Fern
Asplenium trichomanes, also known as English Maidenhair Fern, is a small and charming fern native to the UK.
To ensure the health and vitality of this fern throughout the year, it's important to provide seasonal care tailored to its specific needs. This guide explains how to care for Asplenium trichomanes throughout the seasons.
Spring
Pruning and Maintenance
In early spring, inspect your fern for any damaged or brown fronds. Gently prune these away using clean, sharp secateurs. Look for signs of new growth, which should appear as the weather warms.
Feed
As the growing season begins, you can start feeding your fern with a balanced, liquid or slow-release fertiliser. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the correct dosage.
.
Watering
Keep the soil consistently moist. Water your fern when the top inch of the soil begins to dry out, as this fern prefers a humid environment.
Summer
Protection
In hot and dry summer conditions, consider increasing humidity around your fern. You can do this by misting the fronds regularly or placing a humidity tray nearby.
Asplenium trichomanes thrives in partial to full shade. Protect it from direct, intense sunlight as this can scorch its delicate fronds.
Watering
With the warmer weather, it's crucial to maintain soil moisture. Water your fern regularly, ensuring that the soil remains consistently damp but not waterlogged.
Autumn
Pruning and Maintenance
As the growing season comes to an end, trim away any spent or brown fronds to tidy up the plant.
Protection from frost
Consider covering your fern with a layer of mulch or frost cloth to provide protection on cold nights.
Winter
Pruning and Maintenance
Late winter (February to March) is the ideal time for pruning your Asplenium trichomanes. Remove any damaged or brown fronds to encourage new growth.
Protection from frost
If your Asplenium trichomanes is grown in a pot, consider bringing it indoors during the coldest winter months to protect it from frost.
Pest and disease prevention
Although pests and diseases are less common in winter, it's still essential to monitor your fern for any signs of issues and address them promptly.
Plant SOS
Wilting or crisp fronds – A sign of dry soil or low humidity. Water regularly and keep soil consistently moist.
Brown or scorched fronds – A sign of dry air or direct sunlight. Move to shade and increase humidity.
Yellowing fronds – A sign of poor drainage or nutrient deficiency. Improve drainage and feed lightly.
Weak or sparse growth – A sign of low humidity or unsuitable conditions. Provide shelter and moist, humus-rich soil.
Collapsed or rotting crown – A sign of waterlogged soil. Improve drainage and avoid standing water.
Chewed fronds – A sign of slugs or aphids. Use Slug & Snail Repellent or apply insecticidal soap
