Indian Holly Fern Care

Water

• Although Indian holly fern is a hardy fern that tolerates dry soil more than many varieties, the plant benefits from regular watering during warm, dry weather. Provide approximately 1 inch of rainfall per week in the absence of rain. If the soil is clay or sandy, dig in 3 to 4 inches of organic matter such as compost or leaf mulch before planting Indian holly fern. Organic matter helps clay soil drain and improves moisture retention of fast-draining, sandy soil.

Feeding

• Indian holly fern is a light feeder that requires no fertilizer. However, plants grown in poor soil or full shade benefit from a light feeding of a slow-release 14-14-14 fertilizer just after new growth appears in the spring. Apply no more than 1/4 cup of fertilizer, then water deeply to distribute the fertilizer evenly around the roots. Alternatively, apply an organic fertilizer such as a fish emulsion at a rate of approximately 5 or 6 tablespoons per gallon of water. Never overfertilize because ferns are sensitive and the roots are easily burned by excessive fertilizer. Always refer to the recommendations on the container before applying fertilizer.

Mulch

• In its natural environment, Indian holly fern is a woodland plant that benefits from a mulch of pine needles, leaves and other plant matter. Replicate this environment in the garden by applying organic mulch such as leaf mulch, chopped leaves, chopped bark or pine needles in early summer, which helps keep the roots moist and cool. During the winter, a layer of mulch protects the roots from damage caused by repeated freezing and thawing.

Potential Problems

• Indian holly fern is relatively pest-tolerant, but the plant is sometimes bothered by slugs. Limit mulch to 3 inches or less if you notice slugs chewing on the fronds, as mulch provides a warm, moist place for slugs to hide. If the infestation is light, pick slugs off by hand and drop them in a bucket of soapy water. For a heavy infestation, apply a light application of slug bait at a rate of 1 teaspoon per square yard of planting space. Spray the fern with insecticidal soap spray if you see scale -- small pests covered by a hard, shell-like covering. Apply the spray at a rate of 1 to 4 teaspoons per pint of water, depending on the severity of the problem.