This deciduous fern is a slow-growing plant that adds about 12 inches to its overall size each year.
The fronds die back in the winter and return with a robust fullness in the spring.
The choice may depend on where you live.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
At the southern end of its range, Japanese painted fern should be grown in full shade.
In northern locations, opt for full or partial shade though some shade produces better color.
The soil should have excellent drainage to avoid root rot and fungal diseases.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
Water
Keep the soil evenly moist (but not soggy).
Otherwise, browning on the fronds will occur during the heat of summer.
Keep the fern outdoors year-round butwinterize the container.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
If you prefer commercial fertilizers, apply abalanced fertilizerin spring, carefully following the instructions on the label.
Prune the fern to keep its desired shape.
Remove them by hand.
The Spruce / Adrienne Legault
To deter the pest, treat the fronds withneem oil.
Alternatively, create a barrier around your plants with mulch or rocks.
Rabbits love to eat the fronds but deer are not usually an issue.
Overly moist soil can show signs of fungal issues or root rot.
Avoid this by ensuring that the soil is well-draining.
Once spring turns into summer the fronds will normally become greener.
Fronds Turning Brown
It is also natural for some fronds to brown and die over time.
Cut off the dead fronds when you see them, mostly for aesthetic purposes.
Browning is usually due to lack of water.
To prevent the soil from drying out, apply mulch around the plants.
Fronds Turning Yellow
If the fronds are yellowing and wilting, it is usually from overwatering.
Japanese painted ferns prefer full or partial shade.
Sun harms their fronds.
No, Japanese painted ferns are not considered invasive plants in North America.
The fern grows slowly via rhizomes.
Yes, Japanese painted ferns can be grown in large containers in the shade.
Use well-draining soil and pots with large drainage holes and water regularly to keep the soil evenly moist.
pictum ‘Burgundy Lace’.Missouri Botanical Garden.
pictum ‘Silver Falls’.
