Should I remove brown fern leaves?
Written by
Olivia Mitchell
Reviewed by
Prof. Samuel Fitzgerald, Ph.D.Dried brown leaves on ferns are a sign of stress, but if cut back correctly, they can recover quite well. In fact, I've revived many ferns by determining and addressing the causes after I lopped off the fronds. My recommendation is to cut damaged fronds to redirect energy toward growing healthy fronds. Always use sterilized scissors, so cuts in the fronds heal more quickly and the fern can recover more rapidly.
Assessment
- Identify pattern: tips only or entire fronds affected
- Check soil moisture level before trimming
- Inspect for pest infestations under leaves
- Note recent environmental changes
Trimming Technique
- Use alcohol-sterilized pruning shears
- Cut at 45-degree angle above node
- Remove only fully browned sections
- Disinfect tools between plants
Aftercare
- Adjust humidity to 50-60% immediately
- Review watering frequency
- Apply diluted seaweed extract
- Monitor new growth weekly
When we discuss the time we remove, we refer to the recovery rate. Before the damage can spread, I cut the brown section early. I never remove more than 30% of the foliage in one cut. Pruning in the morning will allow your fern time to heal soon after active growth, when healing begins. Your nursery will push new fronds with minimal regeneration stress at a faster rate when we cut and prune.
After trimming, address the causes. Low humidity can be managed via pebble trays or a humidifier. Chemical burns involve soil flushing. Ferns that are overwatered benefit from being allowed to dry out between waterings. Plants that have been sun scorched will usually do well in bright, shaded areas. Effective management of any symptom does depend on addressing the appropriate cause.
Avoid browning moving forward; this can be monitored with your hygrometer. I, myself, keep hygrometers next to my ferns. Grouping your plants will create a microclimate that supports their growth. Water them with filtered room-temperature water. Rotate the plants as necessary to achieve even light distribution across multiple tanks. Continuity in care will allow vibrant green fronds for longer periods.
The new growth is indicative of a successful recovery. Look for the appearance of fiddleheads starting soon, in around 2-3 weeks. Only add a diluted fertilizer after the new fronds have opened. Your patience will be rewarded with beautiful foliage. The love and attention you give to the semi-anorexic ferns will yield remarkable results, transforming them into beautiful, robust, full ferns!
Read the full article: 8 Expert Tips: How to Care for Ferns Indoors
