Dicksonia antartica tree fern is one of the largest and easiest of the tree ferns that do well in Irish climate. They are a stunning fern with fronds that can reach up to 2.5 meters wide. They love a shady, sheltered site and plenty of moisture and can eventually get up to 6/7 feet tall.

Please note:
In summer the fronds can very wide and are very delicate. They cannot be sent by normal courier. During winter to late spring there would be little or no fronds showing. The fronds start to appear from late April to early May depending on temperature.

How to care for Tree Ferns
Plant in a partially shaded spot
Plant where sheltered from strong winds
Add some organic matter at time of planting
Stake new planted ferns securely for up to 2 years
Water copiously initially, and regularly thereafter
Protect the top of the trunk during periods of adverse weather

Where to position your tree fern
Tree ferns require shade, plenty of moisture and good drainage. You need to protect them from severe frost. In their natural habitat they are protected by overhead evergreen trees.

Do you water tree ferns in winter?
Water water regularly during the Spring and Summer to ensure the crown of your tree fern is always kept moist. The tree fern is an evergreen plant, although in many areas of Ireland it is likely that in Winter frost will 'burn off' the existing fronds and potentially damage the following season's growth.

How often should you water a tree fern?

Water copiously on a daily basis, or as often as possible as the new fronds emerge. It is vital to keep watering the trunk for at least 6 months after planting.

Do ferns come back every year?
Ferns will die back when it gets cold in winter, but they will begin to grow again in spring. 

Do you water tree ferns in winter?
Also be sure to water regularly during the Spring and Summer to ensure the crown of your tree fern is always kept moist. The tree fern is an evergreen plant, although in many areas of Europe it is likely that in Winter frost will 'burn off' the existing fronds and potentially damage the following season's growth.

Feeding Tree Ferns
We recommend feeding with a liquid fertilizer twice or three times in the growing season.

Tree fern problems
The most common problem is the trunk narrowing and the fronds not growing fully. This is usually caused by the plant not getting enough water. Consistant watering will help improve this issue but it may take several years for the trunk to regain its girth.

Can tree ferns be grown in pots?
Yes they can. best to choose a large pot so that it doesn't get top heavy. Most types of compost will do. The key is to never let it dry out. best to stand the pot in a tray of water and keep it consantly topped up.