Bringing outdoor ferns back to life can seem daunting, but with a little care and attention, it is possible to revive even the most lackluster ferns. As hardy plants, ferns are often able to bounce back from periods of neglect with proper care. Here are some tips on how to bring your outdoor ferns back to their former glory.
Assess the Damage
The first step is to take a close look at your ferns and identify any issues.
- Are the fronds yellow, brown or crunchy? This indicates dryness.
- Are the fronds blackened or slimy? This may be a disease like root rot.
- Are there bare patches with no new growth? The fern may be pot bound.
Closely inspect the roots as well. Healthy roots should be firm and white or brown. Black, mushy roots mean root rot. Identifying the underlying problems will direct your revival efforts.
Improve Growing Conditions
Ferns thrive in moist, humid environments with indirect sunlight. If your ferns are dry and crispy, they likely need more moisture and shade. Consider the following fixes:
- Water thoroughly. Ferns prefer consistently damp (but not soggy) soil. Water until it runs from the drainage holes.
- Mist frequently. Misting the fronds several times a week boosts humidity around the plants.
- Add mulch. A 2-3 inch layer of mulch preserves soil moisture. Organic options like bark chips work well.
- Increase shade. Add a shade cloth or move plants to a shadier spot if sunlight is too direct. Morning sun is best.
- Improve drainage. Replant in well-draining soil or create raised beds if ferns are soggy. Good drainage prevents root rot.
Adjusting growing conditions gives ferns the environment they need to recover. Be patient, as it can take weeks or months to see improvement.
Prune Away Dead Fronds
Removing tattered, dead fronds improves the look of the plants while freeing up energy for new growth. Prune dead or dying leaves all the way back to the plant’s crown. Sterilize pruners between each cut to prevent disease spread.
Propagate with Spores (if no Fronds Remain)
If all the fronds have died back, you can attempt to restart ferns from the spores formed on the underside of fronds. Use a toothpick to scrape spores onto a tray filled with moist potting mix. Cover the tray with plastic to retain humidity as new plants sprout. Once small ferns grow, transplant them into pots.
Repot Root Bound Ferns
Ferns that have outgrown their pots may have congested, circling roots. Carefully remove the root ball and loosen tangled roots before repotting in a larger container filled with fresh potting mix. Trim any damaged roots. Give replanted ferns a thorough watering.
Treat Diseases
For root rot, remove soggy soil and affected roots. Repot in sterile, well-draining mix. Improve drainage moving forward. Disinfect pots to prevent reinfection.
For fungal leaf spots, prune affected fronds. Remove fallen leaves to prevent spread. Apply neem oil or sulfur fungicide spray as a treatment.
For pests like scale, mealybugs or spider mites, wipe or spray leaves with insecticidal soap and prune away heavily infested fronds.
Addressing disease and pest issues provides a healthy start as ferns re-establish.
Fertilize Regularly
Apply balanced liquid fertilizer every 2-4 weeks during the growing season. Soak the soil thoroughly afterward to avoid root burn. Fertilizing helps depleted ferns regain vigor.
Be Patient!
It takes time for ferns to bounce back from decline. Focus on improving care and troubleshooting issues. With persistence, even severely distressed outdoor ferns can make strong recoveries. Expect the process to take a few months or more. But the rewards of lush, beautiful ferns are well worth the wait.
Frequently Asked Questions About Reviving Outdoor Ferns
Bringing outdoor ferns back to life may seem challenging. Here are answers to some common questions about reviving ferns.
How long does it take ferns to recover?
Be patient, as severely damaged ferns can take many months to bounce back. Focus on improving care and you should see gradual improvement over time. Healthy new frond growth signals recovery.
What causes ferns to die back?
Dry soil, lack of humidity, too much sun, dense roots, diseases like root rot, and pests can all cause decline. Assess specific issues and adjust care accordingly. Rule out disease and pest problems as well.
Should I cut off all dead fern fronds?
Pruning away tattered, dead fronds improves appearance and focuses energy on new growth. But leave any partially green fronds to help plants recover through photosynthesis.
How can I save an overwatered fern?
Repot in fresh, well-draining soil to treat root rot. Cut away rotten roots and improve drainage moving forward. Provide more sunlight to dry out soil faster.
Why are my outdoor ferns turning brown?
Brown, dry fronds indicate underwatering or too much sunlight. Thorough, frequent watering and increased shade should help. Brown fronds can also signal pests or diseases requiring treatment.
How do I revive my fern with no fronds left?
If all fronds died back, scrape spores from the rhizome onto moist potting mix to propagate new plants. Keep covered until tiny ferns sprout, then transplant into pots and nurture them with proper care.
Conclusion
Reviving distressed outdoor ferns is very possible with a little detective work and some adjusted care. By identifying issues like pests, diseases, underwatering, or overly dense roots, you can troubleshoot problems and provide solutions. While ferns take patience to recover, their resilience is impressive. With time and diligent care focused on moist soil, humidity, indirect light and fertilization, even sad-looking ferns can regain their former beauty. Pay attention to your ferns’ needs and they will reward you with graceful, vibrant fronds.