David Culp and Martha Stewart share tips for dividing and potting a variety of ferns. Spring is also the ideal time to divide any large clumps of fern that you might have in the garden. Ferns are wonderful addition to a shade garden, and dividing bigger ones means free plants for you! RD.COM Home Gardening. Dividing/Transplanting: When Fern fronds appear to be smaller, or the clump has a bare center, it is time to divide. Instead, dig down underneath the roots to protect them. Dividing the fern will allow you to cultivate new ferns to replace the pot bound one. Once it's out, brush off and shake loose as much soil as you can. In spring before the new growth starts, or in fall after the plant goes dormant, dig around the fern and discover the extent of the clump. ... carefully dig up a clump of ferns with a fork and cut off the fronds. To do this, insert the shovel deep into the soil around the perimeter to loosen the roots and isolate the clump. Deformed Fronds Can Be Caused By Overfeeding If they are in soil that is moderately fertile with lots of moisture and nutritious humus, ferns do … You can also transplant ferns as soon as new growth emerges in early spring, but take care as the new leaves are fragile. This article was published in Reader's Digest. So what do you do if you have ferns that you want to divide and transplant around your garden? Dig up the whole clump and take 6″-square pieces from the most vigorous growth. Replant at the original depth and water well. Watch More Videos From Home and Gardening. The fern … How to Divide Ferns in Your Organic Garden. Dish Gardens 101 with Stephen Orr Sign Out ; Dividing Ferns ... More Less. Now Playing. This will allow the fern to focus more energy on the root system, making it easier for the plant to establish itself in its new location. Dig up the clump of perennials that will be divided. 1. You can dig and divide a mature plant or transplant a young plant to a more desirable location in your garden. Insert a spade or garden fork deep into the soil under the roots. Most perennials are extremely tough and amazingly resilient.