Dicksonia antarctica / Tree fern (3L pot)

The best-known tree fern in Ireland, the 'soft tree fern' is instantly recognisable by its long fronds and dark brown woody stem.

Plants start out looking much like a 'normal' fern, but each year a new crop of fronds appears from the centre. Even young plants can have a spread of 100-150cm after a couple of years. Over time, a trunk develops, which is in fact a mass of roots. Tree ferns are mainly cold hardy in Ireland, but they prefer the milder coastal areas. They should be planted in light or dappled shade, out of the way of strong or easterly winds. They do like moisture too, so damp soil is a bonus. If you don't have damp soil, you may need to water the stem from time to time during dry spells.

There are three tricks to keeping tree ferns looking good. Firstly, remove the older, drier fronds 2 or 3 times per year (chop them off at the base with a pair of secateurs). Secondly, fertilise them with a seaweed based liquid fertiliser every 4 to 6 weeks from spring to autumn. You do this by slowly watering the top of the plant and letting the liquid dribble down the stem (Maxicop seaweed fertiliser is the best). And finally, make sure that they are situated out of strong, drying winds.

We generally have a selection of tree ferns in different sizes in our Monkstown shop. These younger plants do not have a trunk yet and come in a 3 litre container with multiple fronds. The exact condition and size of the fronds depends on the time of year.

DELIVERY TERMS:

• Delivery charge is €20.00 per order, irrespective of the number of plants ordered.
• Plants are delivered by van to ensure thay arrive in perfect condition.
• Delivery ONLY in DunLaoghaire Rathdown or Dublin 1,2,3,4,6,and 8.
• We cannot deliver on specified days. If nobody is home the delivery will be left in a safe place.
• We will notify you by phone, text or email prior to your delivery.
• Please allow up to or over one week for delivery