Tasmanian Tree Ferns Planting & Care Guide

Your Tasmanian Tree Fern (Dicksonia Antarctica) will arrive in log/trunk form with a flat base and a crown with fronds protruding from the top at various lengths, depending on the time of year.

In late spring the fronds will begin to unfurl adding an exotic feel to your garden.

By following the Planting and Care Guide below you can expect to enjoy many years of beauty from your Tasmanian Tree Fern (they are among the oldest plants in the world....predating dinosaurs!).

Planting

• Location
  Shade/Partial Shade - avoid direct sunlight, which could scorch the fronds.
  Sheltered Spot - protects the fronds from strong winds and prevents them from being damaged.
  Soil - moist, well drained soil. Tree Ferns prefer rich, humus filled soil that retains moisture but doesn't become waterlogged.
• Prepare The Area
  Dig a hole slightly bigger than the diameter of the log and deep enough to bury 1/6th of the log length. This will ensure the Tree Fern is planted deep and compact enough to withstand the elements. If the log doesn't feel stable after planting add extra support with a stake.
• Watering
  After planting water liberally into the crown.

Care

• Feeding
  Occasional feeding with a Tree Fern feed (such as HSK or Vitax) or any liquid plant feed/fertiliser will assist growth. Feed into the crown (the top of the log) from May - August.
• Watering
  Water into the crown regularly in the growing months from May - October, misting the log and fronds (especially in dry conditions) to replicate the rainforest humidity. The Tree Fern mustn't be allowed to dry out, as this could result in the log narrowing and producing smaller fronds.
• Pruning
  In Spring or Early Summer remove any dead or damaged fronds, only trim brown droopy fronds. Don't trim closer then 15cm (appx.) from the log.
• Winter Protection
  Tree Ferns are hardy to around -5 Deg C.
  When the temperature begins to drop (October/November), protect for winter by wrapping the log in fleece or hessian and gently stuff the crown with dry straw (taking care not to damage any new fronds). 

In Spring around the end of March - Mid April uncover the top, remove the log protection and wait for the magic to begin again!