Pest identification
What's eating my anderson's holly fern?
Slugs & snails
Signs: Notched or holed fronds, croziers eaten before they unfurl
Control: Iron-phosphate pellets; diatomaceous earth barrier around crowns; remove mulch where slugs hide in daytime
Vine weevil
Signs: Adults notch frond margins; larvae destroy the root crown causing wilt
Control: Apply Steinernema nematodes in late summer; physically remove adults found sheltering under pots at night
Deer
Signs: Young fronds and growing tips browsed to the ground
Control: Deer-repellent sprays; physical fencing; situate in sheltered or enclosed garden areas
Keep anderson's holly fern pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Anderson's Holly Fern pests — FAQ
What is eating my anderson's holly fern?
Anderson's holly fern (Polystichum andersonii) is a Pacific Northwest native garden fern. Slugs and snails are the main pest, shredding emerging croziers. Vine weevil adults notch frond edges and larvae eat roots. Deer occasionally browse it in open garden settings. Its tough, leathery fronds give it better resistance than softer ferns.
How do I get rid of slugs & snails on anderson's holly fern?
Notched or holed fronds, croziers eaten before they unfurl Iron-phosphate pellets; diatomaceous earth barrier around crowns; remove mulch where slugs hide in daytime
How do I get rid of vine weevil on anderson's holly fern?
Adults notch frond margins; larvae destroy the root crown causing wilt Apply Steinernema nematodes in late summer; physically remove adults found sheltering under pots at night
How do I get rid of deer on anderson's holly fern?
Young fronds and growing tips browsed to the ground Deer-repellent sprays; physical fencing; situate in sheltered or enclosed garden areas