How to prune polystichum aculeatum

Late winter to early spring before new fronds emerge. Cut old fronds back to just above the crown with clean, sharp secateurs. Take care around the crown to avoid nicking emerging crosiers. Individual damaged fronds can be removed at any time.

Annually in late winter or early spring. Polystichum aculeatum (hard shield fern) is a tough, largely evergreen fern requiring only a yearly tidy. Old fronds persist attractively through winter but become battered by late winter — remove them in early spring before new crosiers emerge. No shaping is needed at any other time.

Cut old fronds back to just above the crown with clean, sharp secateurs. Take care around the crown to avoid nicking emerging crosiers. Individual damaged fronds can be removed at any time.