Troubleshooting
Dryopteris championii problems — and how to fix them
Dryopteris championii (Dryopteris championii) is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Scorched fronds in sun
Too much direct light or dry soil bleaches the glossy fronds. Move to deeper shade and keep the soil moist.
Winter frond browning
Cold winds desiccate the evergreen fronds. Site in a sheltered spot; trim tatty fronds in early spring before new growth.
Crown rot
Waterlogged winter soil rots the central crown. Improve drainage and avoid planting the crown too deeply.
Vine weevil grubs
Root-feeding larvae cause sudden wilting. Apply nematodes in late summer and inspect new plants' rootballs.
Prevent dryopteris championii problems before they start
Most dryopteris championii issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Looking for dryopteris championii in general rather than its problems? Read the full dryopteris championii care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Dryopteris championii problems — FAQ
Why is my dryopteris championii scorched fronds in sun?
Too much direct light or dry soil bleaches the glossy fronds. Move to deeper shade and keep the soil moist.
Why is my dryopteris championii winter frond browning?
Cold winds desiccate the evergreen fronds. Site in a sheltered spot; trim tatty fronds in early spring before new growth.
Why is my dryopteris championii crown rot?
Waterlogged winter soil rots the central crown. Improve drainage and avoid planting the crown too deeply.
Why is my dryopteris championii vine weevil grubs?
Root-feeding larvae cause sudden wilting. Apply nematodes in late summer and inspect new plants' rootballs.