Troubleshooting
Polystichum setiferum 'Divisilobum' problems — and how to fix them
Polystichum setiferum 'Divisilobum' (Polystichum setiferum 'Divisilobum') 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 soft fronds
Direct sun or drying wind crisps the finely cut foliage. Move to sheltered shade and keep soil moist.
Tatty old fronds in spring
Evergreen fronds look worn by late winter. Cut them back in early spring before the new croziers unfurl to keep the plant tidy.
Crown rot
Waterlogged soil rots the central crown. Improve drainage and plant the crown at, not below, soil level.
Vine weevil
Larvae feed on roots and cause wilting. Treat with nematodes in late summer and check rootballs of new plants.
Prevent polystichum setiferum 'divisilobum' problems before they start
Most polystichum setiferum 'divisilobum' issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
- Common soft shield fern problems — the species this cultivar belongs to
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- Polystichum setiferum 'Divisilobum' watering schedule
- Polystichum setiferum 'Divisilobum' light requirements
- Best soil mix for polystichum setiferum 'divisilobum'
- Polystichum setiferum 'Divisilobum' temperature & humidity
- Full polystichum setiferum 'divisilobum' care guide
Looking for polystichum setiferum 'divisilobum' in general rather than its problems? Read the full polystichum setiferum 'divisilobum' care guide — light, water, soil and feeding.
Polystichum setiferum 'Divisilobum' problems — FAQ
Why is my polystichum setiferum 'divisilobum' scorched soft fronds?
Direct sun or drying wind crisps the finely cut foliage. Move to sheltered shade and keep soil moist.
Why is my polystichum setiferum 'divisilobum' tatty old fronds in spring?
Evergreen fronds look worn by late winter. Cut them back in early spring before the new croziers unfurl to keep the plant tidy.
Why is my polystichum setiferum 'divisilobum' crown rot?
Waterlogged soil rots the central crown. Improve drainage and plant the crown at, not below, soil level.
Why is my polystichum setiferum 'divisilobum' vine weevil?
Larvae feed on roots and cause wilting. Treat with nematodes in late summer and check rootballs of new plants.