Sprengeri fern care guide
Asparagus densiflorus
Also known as: Emerald fern, Foxtail fern, Asparagus sprengeri
Pets and children
Considered toxic
Sapogenins in the red berries can cause vomiting, abdominal pain, and diarrhea, and repeated contact with the foliage can irritate skin; keep it out of reach and consult a veterinarian (or a doctor, for a child) if eaten.
How often to water Sprengeri fern
- Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep)
- Every 5 days
- Water thoroughly once the topsoil is dry, as a guide; the tuberous roots store water, so it bounces back from a little drying.
- Autumn (Oct–Nov)
- Every 7 days
- Once it cools, wait about a day or two after the soil dries.
- Winter (Dec–Feb)
- Every 10 days
- Water sparingly roughly three to four days after the soil dries; in winter it fares better a little dry than wet.
Light and placement for Sprengeri fern
Generally best in bright shade or light through a sheer curtain; gentle morning sun is fine, but midsummer sun yellows and scorches the foliage.
Overwintering Sprengeri fern
Overwintering guide: 0°C (32°F) or above
Fairly cold-tolerant, taking around 0°C; as a guide, keep it out of frost under the eaves or in a bright spot indoors, and if the foliage yellows in winter, live roots usually push new shoots in spring.
Fertilizing and repotting Sprengeri fern
Fertilizer
From April to October, slow-release fertilizer about every two months or a diluted liquid feed roughly every two weeks; a dense plant yellows when it runs short of food, and none is given in winter.
When to repot
Spring–Summer (Mar–Sep), Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Common problems with Sprengeri fern
- Roots pack the pot until water cannot get in, and the foliage yellows.
- In a dark spot the foliage thins out and the stems stretch.
- Overwatered in winter, the roots rot and nothing sprouts in spring.
Tips for growing Sprengeri fern
- Cut old yellowed stems at the base and fresh ones come up, renewing the plant.
- The stems are prickly, so wear gloves when tidying it.
- The swollen roots can crack a pot, so divide or repot every two years.
These are AI-generated general guidelines. They vary with the variety, the placement and the pot size. For effects on pets or children, consult a veterinarian or a doctor.
Keep your plant log going
Greenery is a free app that keeps your plant care going, with watering reminders and photo records. Available on iOS and Android.
