It’s actually not that hard to make your tree ferns grow bigger, if you follow these steps below.
How can I make my ferns grow bigger?
When we say ‘bigger’ tree ferns, we’re talking about bigger, thicker and larger fronds rather than the ‘trunk’.
The trunk isn’t going to grow more than an inch per year, so forget about that – however the one thing you can make a massive difference on is the size of the fronds.
Positioning of your tree fern for maximum growth:
The position in your garden will make a massive difference. Give your tree fern a sheltered (from the wind) position, that is in half / part shade and you’re off to a good start. There is nothing worse for a tree fern than endless drying wind whipping across the crown and trunk. You’re onto a losing battle if this is the only position you can get them in.
Moisture requirements for fast growing tree ferns
Here in the UK we can’t do much to control the natural humidity, so we are 100% reliant on moisture from direct watering. For the fastest growth and lushest, longest fronds you’re gonna need to either be out there every day watering the crown, or you’re going to need a simple auto dripper device which you can buy off the internet pretty cheaply these days. I have my irrigation set to come on twice a day for 5-7 mins through the spring – autumn directly into the crown. I will then also water the them again every time I’m watering the rest of the plants in that part of the garden. This accounts for a good 2-3 extra watering sessions throughout the summer per week. You can’t water them enough to be honest, so don’t hold back.
Always feed your tree fern in the growing season
Throughout the growing season from the minute you can feel hard knuckles in the crown, start adding soluble fern specific fertiliser into the watering can and apply once a week. This will help mimic the natural fall of leaves and organic matter in the crown that would be present naturally due to the higher canopy over the ferns from the taller trees surrounding.
So fundamentally, in order to make your tree ferns grow as fast as possible in the UK you need a good position, shelter from the wind, part shaded location, and lots and lots of water – ideally a good soak every single day, with added feed once a week through the growing season.
Further Reading & Common Tree Fern Questions
- What should I plant with tree ferns?
- How do you propagate tree ferns?
- Can tree ferns like Dicksonia Antartica grow in pots?
- How can I make my ferns grow bigger?
- How fast does a tree fern grow?
- How long does it take for tree fern fronds to grow?
- Are tree ferns invasive?
- Are tree ferns expensive?
- Does a tree fern have roots?
- Can you grow a tree fern indoors?
- Are tree ferns deciduous?
- How long does a tree fern live?
- Do tree ferns prefer sun or shade?
- How do you cut back tree ferns?
- Are tree ferns hardy?
- How do you take care of a tree fern?
