Overwintering guide
How to overwinter richard's shield fern
Winter watering
Water rarely, and only in dry spells — winter wet is a bigger risk than winter cold. Make sure containers drain freely.
The mistake that kills richard's shield fern in winter
Leaving richard's shield fern in a pot standing in a saucer of water. Waterlogged compost freezes solid around the roots and kills plants that would have survived the cold perfectly well.
More richard's shield fern care
Overwintering richard's shield fern — FAQ
Does richard's shield fern need to come indoors for winter?
Richard's Shield Fern is hardy to roughly USDA zone 8 — winter lows around -12°C. That means it survives outside in mild areas, but wants shelter in a hard winter. Richard's Shield Fern can stay outside over winter in most areas, but appreciates some protection in a cold snap. Mulch generously over the root zone, move containers against a sheltered wall (pots freeze far harder than open ground), and have horticultural fleece ready for the worst nights. The roots are what you are protecting — top growth can be sacrificed and regrown.
When should I move richard's shield fern for winter?
Mulch and move pots into shelter in late autumn, before the first hard frosts.
How often should I water richard's shield fern in winter?
Water rarely, and only in dry spells — winter wet is a bigger risk than winter cold. Make sure containers drain freely.
What kills richard's shield fern over winter?
Leaving richard's shield fern in a pot standing in a saucer of water. Waterlogged compost freezes solid around the roots and kills plants that would have survived the cold perfectly well.