How to prune woodwardia fimbriata

Early spring, before new fronds emerge. Cut old or dead fronds individually at the base using loppers — this is a substantial plant and fronds are stout. Leave any still-green fronds in place; they continue photosynthesizing until naturally replaced by fresh growth.

Annually in early spring; remove damaged fronds as they appear through the season. Giant chain fern (Woodwardia fimbriata) is a large, semi-evergreen to evergreen fern native to western North America. It needs minimal pruning — remove dead or tattered fronds at the base in early spring before new growth begins. Given its impressive size (fronds to 2.5 m), use loppers for cutting; no shaping is required.

Cut old or dead fronds individually at the base using loppers — this is a substantial plant and fronds are stout. Leave any still-green fronds in place; they continue photosynthesizing until naturally replaced by fresh growth.