How to prune macho fern

Early spring for main cut-back; any time for dead fronds and stray runners. Cut individual dead fronds at the base. For the spring refresh, trim all fronds back by one-third, cutting at the base rather than mid-blade, to promote vigorous, bushy regrowth.

Dead fronds as needed; main cut-back annually in spring. Macho Fern is vigorous and benefits from regular maintenance. Remove dead or brown fronds at the base throughout the year. In early spring, cut the whole plant back by about a third to remove tired growth and encourage a dense flush of large new fronds. Trim long, unruly runners any time.

Cut individual dead fronds at the base. For the spring refresh, trim all fronds back by one-third, cutting at the base rather than mid-blade, to promote vigorous, bushy regrowth.