Fern question - Ask Extension
Hello,
See the attached picture of a fern. It almost looks scorched! It has gotten a lot of water in the last seven days, and the ground is still moi...
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Fern question #876888
Asked July 11, 2024, 8:00 PM EDT
Hello,
See the attached picture of a fern. It almost looks scorched! It has gotten a lot of water in the last seven days, and the ground is still moist, but it looks very unhealthy. Could it be disease?
Thanks for any advice you can provide.
-- Jack
Baltimore County Maryland
Expert Response
Hello Jack,
Unfortunately we can't determine from the photo what is affecting the fern, if you are referring to the scattered dead/brown fronds. While we can't rule-out a fungal infection, it isn't something that could be cured with a fungicide, so the only approach for now is to trim off browned fronds and continue to monitor the plant for watering needs. (Be cautious about over-watering, as not all fern species are tolerant of soggy/wet soils for prolonged periods.) Removing the dead growth will also improve air circulation through the plant's crown, which can help to reduce the risk of infection.
Miri
Unfortunately we can't determine from the photo what is affecting the fern, if you are referring to the scattered dead/brown fronds. While we can't rule-out a fungal infection, it isn't something that could be cured with a fungicide, so the only approach for now is to trim off browned fronds and continue to monitor the plant for watering needs. (Be cautious about over-watering, as not all fern species are tolerant of soggy/wet soils for prolonged periods.) Removing the dead growth will also improve air circulation through the plant's crown, which can help to reduce the risk of infection.
Miri
Simple and sound advice.
Thanks, Miri, will do as recommended.
-- Jack
You're welcome.
