Pruning guide
How to prune hound's tongue fern
Best time
Year-round as needed
How often
As needed
Technique
Cut individual dead or damaged fronds at the base of the stipe (stalk) using clean scissors. Never trim frond tips, as ferns do not regenerate from cut ends. Keep cuts close to the rhizome.
More hound's tongue fern care
Pruning hound's tongue fern — FAQ
When should I prune hound's tongue fern?
Year-round as needed. Cut individual dead or damaged fronds at the base of the stipe (stalk) using clean scissors. Never trim frond tips, as ferns do not regenerate from cut ends. Keep cuts close to the rhizome.
How often does hound's tongue fern need pruning?
As needed. Hound's Tongue Fern (Microsorum pustulatum) needs very little pruning. Remove dead, brown, or damaged fronds by cutting them off at the base. Do not trim the tips of green fronds — this causes browning and does not benefit the plant. Let the fern's natural creeping, arching form develop undisturbed.
How do you prune hound's tongue fern?
Cut individual dead or damaged fronds at the base of the stipe (stalk) using clean scissors. Never trim frond tips, as ferns do not regenerate from cut ends. Keep cuts close to the rhizome.