How to Transplant Tree Ferns

Tree ferns are tropical ferns that grow to the size of a large bush or small tree. They are only hardy in areas where the temperature doesn't dip too far below freezing, generally USDA hardiness zones 8a and above. Provide winter protection from temperatures colder than the teens. Find a spot to transplant your tree fern where it can grow undisturbed for many years, as they have extensive root systems and are difficult to move once established.

Things You'll Need

• Garden shovel
• Peat moss
• Mulch

Instructions

1. Decide where to plant your tree fern. Plant it near other larger trees for winter protection and also because tree ferns grow best in dappled shade, like under a larger tree.

2. Dig a hole to transplant the tree fern into. Make it larger than the root ball and slightly deeper. Mix a 5 gallon bucket of peat moss into the soil you remove from the hole. Set soil aside.

3. Remove the tree fern from its nursery pot. Gently tease the outside roots free of the soil before putting into the planting hole. Add additional soil underneath the root ball so the tree fern is growing at the same level it was before transplanting. Firm the soil with your foot, but don't compress it.

4. Water well. Fill up the indentation around the plant with water 2 to 3 times and let it drain.

5. Apply a 4 to 6 inch layer of mulch, such as shredded bark or wood chips, around the base of the tree fern.

6. Water every two to three days until active growth is apparent. Thereafter, provide at least 2 inches of water per week.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not remove the faded fronds of your tree fern. They provide protection from harsh winds and also from cold winter temperatures. Feed in spring and again in early summer with all purpose granulated fertilizer scratched into the soil around the base of the tree.

References

• Dave's Garden: Giant Scaly Tree Fern, Australian Tree Fern