How to Trim an Asparagus Fern

Although asparagus fern has the word fern in its name, it is not technically a fern. The asparagus fern gets its name from its foliage, which resembles the foliage of the asparagus plant. The asparagus fern thrives in a sunny location and prefers moist soil during the growing season. Many gardeners grow asparagus ferns as houseplants or in hanging baskets. Keep the asparagus fern trimmed to eliminate old growth and the asparagus fern will be an attractive and dependable plant.

Things You'll Need

• Asparagus fern
• Pruning shears

Instructions

1. Examine the asparagus fern in the spring prior to any new growth appearing. Find old growth that appears woody and unattractive. Look for any yellowed growth that makes the plant look unattractive.

2. Use the pruning shears to remove the old growth. Trim off this woody growth at the base of the stems to remove it completely. This will encourage the asparagus fern to put forth new growth.

3. Cut away any yellow growth you find also. The yellow growth is usually a result of insufficient water. Any yellowed stems will not turn green again and you must cut them off to make the plant more attractive.

4. Shape the asparagus fern as desired by cutting off the ends of the fronds around the outside of the asparagus fern. Remove as much as half of the fronds to create the shape you want.

References

• Asparagus Fern