Tree Ferns

[jamesnan]

This is the first winter we have had a tree fern. I have stuffed the middle with straw, and wrapped it up in insulation, as recommended, and it is in an unheated lean-to. Does it need to be watered to keep it alive during the winter months, if so, how often? It is a beautiful plant and I would dearly love to keep it in good condition if possible.

[NazNomad]

... Your ferns get enough water from the rain - you should not need to water them over winter.

http://gardenadvice.c...rees/ferns/index.html

[jamesnan]

The fern is inside, so will not get any rain. It is also wrapped up in insulation

[Hawkwalk]

if has shut down for the winter then it wont need watering. If by protecting it from the cold is gets a little warm and begins to dry you could give the compost a small amount of water but not much.

[Whoever]

Many people kill plants like this over winter because they think they need to be watered the same amount as they need in summer. Effectively the plant goes into semi hibernation so keep the compost fairly dry and only water when it's absolutely necessary as if it's indoors and being stored in a fairly low temperature the moisture in the compost will last for quite a long time.