Pest identification
What's eating my asplenium platyneuron?
Slugs & snails
Signs: Notched or entirely missing young fronds, especially in spring
Control: Iron-phosphate pellets around crowns; copper tape on containers; reduce damp mulch that shelters slugs
Vine weevil
Signs: Adults notch pinnae margins; larvae sever roots causing sudden wilt
Control: Apply Steinernema nematodes to moist soil in late summer; check for and destroy grubs at repotting
Deer
Signs: Fronds browsed, particularly on young or exposed plants
Control: Deer-repellent spray; physical fencing in high-pressure areas; site plants close to structures
Keep asplenium platyneuron pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Asplenium platyneuron pests — FAQ
What is eating my asplenium platyneuron?
Ebony spleenwort is a tough native garden fern. Slugs and snails damage tender new fronds in spring. Deer occasionally browse it in woodland edge gardens. Vine weevil adults notch the narrow pinnae and larvae attack roots in container specimens. Its dark, leathery stipes deter many feeders, making it more resistant than softer garden ferns.
How do I get rid of slugs & snails on asplenium platyneuron?
Notched or entirely missing young fronds, especially in spring Iron-phosphate pellets around crowns; copper tape on containers; reduce damp mulch that shelters slugs
How do I get rid of vine weevil on asplenium platyneuron?
Adults notch pinnae margins; larvae sever roots causing sudden wilt Apply Steinernema nematodes to moist soil in late summer; check for and destroy grubs at repotting
How do I get rid of deer on asplenium platyneuron?
Fronds browsed, particularly on young or exposed plants Deer-repellent spray; physical fencing in high-pressure areas; site plants close to structures