How to Plant and Grow Asparagus Fern

Where to Plant Asparagus Fern

The light requirements of asparagus fern are similar to those of ferns. Plant in a location where it gets dappled shade and the soil is rich, moist but well-drained, and slightly acidic.

As asparagus fern tends to spread vigorously through its fleshy roots, select a location where you can keep an eye on its expansion and control it if necessary. If in doubt, plant it in a container or a hanging basket.

Note: Asparagus fern spreads not only from its roots but also when birds disperse the seeds after eating the berries. In parts of the United States, including Florida, Hawaii, and southern California, Sprenger's asparagus fern is considered invasive.

How and When to Plant Asparagus Fern

Plant asparagus fern in the spring so it gets established before the summer heat sets in. Dig a hole about twice the size of the nursery pot and just as deep. Place the plant in the center and backfill with original soil. Tamp it down and water it immediately.

Depending on the variety, space plants 2 to 4 feet apart.

Note: Before acquiring a new plant, make sure your environment meets its needs. Not every plant will do well in every location.

Asparagus Fern Care Tips

Asparagus ferns are easy-to-care-for plants, both as houseplants and in shady gardens.

Light: Outside, asparagus fern should be in a location with dappled shade. Too much sun, especially the strong afternoon sun, causes yellow foliage. Place potted houseplants in a location with indirect or filtered light. In the summer, you can move your potted houseplants outdoors to a shaded porch.
Soil and Water: Asparagus ferns perform best in organically rich, well-drained soil with a pH between 6.5 and 6.8. Keep the plants evenly moist between spring and fall and water sparingly during the winter. When grown as houseplants, asparagus ferns don't require periods of winter dormancy; however, they should receive less water during the winter months.
Temperature and Humidity: Asparagus ferns prefer warm and humid climates (about 70°F) and do not withstand temperatures below 55°F for long periods.
Fertilizer: When the plant is actively growing new stems and foliage, apply an all-purpose liquid fertilizer, diluted to half strength, about once a week.
Pruning: To promote dense plant growth, pinch the stems of your asparagus fern back by about a third every few months. If the plant's shape becomes too sprawling, cut back the oldest stems close to the soil to encourage new growth. The stems of mature asparagus ferns become tough and woody, with tiny but sharp spines along the branches. When trimming older plants, protect your hands with a thick pair of gardening gloves.

Potting and Repotting

Choose a container that fits the growth habit of your asparagus fern. Use upright-growing asparagus fern as a filler and trailing varieties in hanging baskets. Make sure the container has large drainage holes and fill it with well-draining potting mix. Keep in mind that outdoor potted plants need more frequent watering than indoor plants and plants in garden soil.

When the fleshy roots push out of the pot, your asparagus fern needs to be divided or repotted. At this point, repot the whole plant into a container one size up or divide the plant.

Pests and Problems

Asparagus fern attracts mites, slugs, aphids, and mealybugs. Potential diseases include leaf spot and root or crown rot, especially when drainage is poor or the plant is being overwatered.

How to Propagate Asparagus Fern

Because asparagus fern is such a vigorous grower, propagating it by dividing it is the easiest, fastest, and most reliable method to make a new plant.

In the spring or summer, dig up a mature asparagus fern or remove it from its pot. Carefully separate the rhizomes into sections by cutting them with a sharp, clean knife. Make sure that each section has several roots on them. Replant each section at the same depth as the original plant or in a pot with fresh potting soil. Water immediately and keep the new plants well-watered until you see new growth.

Types of Asparagus Fern

'Sprengeri' Asparagus Fern: Asparagus densiflorus 'Sprengeri' is the most widely available variety. It has arching stems with inch-long dark green needles. If you are planning to plant it outdoors, be mindful of the invasive nature of this variety.
Foxtail Fern: Asparagus densiflorus 'Myers' has dense, bottle brush-like stems that grow more upright. Because of this, it is best suited as a filler in containers.
Dwarf Asparagus Fern: Asparagus densiflorus 'Nana' is a dwarf variety of asparagus fern that grows just 12 to 15 inches tall with short, upright stems and soft, emerald-green foliage.
Common Asparagus Fern: Asparagus plumosus, previously known as Asparagus setaceus, looks the most like a true fern. The spreading layered stems are covered with tiny soft needles. Older stems often grow several feet long. Cut them back to promote denser growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I overwinter my outdoor asparagus ferns?

Place the plant in a spot with bright light and away from drafts or heat sources. Water it just enough to keep the soil moist. When the temperature reaches at least 60°F in spring, move the container outside in a protected area for a couple of weeks before moving it to its permanent summer location.

Why is my asparagus fern houseplant dropping its foliage?

Leaf dropping usually happens as a result of inconsistent watering. Increase the frequency (not the volume) of watering and also mist the plants.