Will neem oil hurt my fern?

Neem oil can be effective, but ferns are sensitive. Test it on a single small frond first and wait 24 hours to see if it causes any damage.

How often should I check for pests?

A quick glance every time you water is perfect. It only takes a few seconds and prevents small problems from becoming big ones.

Evergreen wood fern: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Examine the undersides of the fronds for small bumps.
Check the stems for sticky residue or honeydew.
Isolate the plant from your other houseplants to prevent spreading.

Likely causes

Scale Insects
Most likely
How to tell: Small, stationary brown bumps appear on the stems or undersides of fronds. They suck sap and can cause the plant to lose vigor.
What to do: Dab each bump with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol to kill the insect. For heavy infestations, wipe the fronds down with insecticidal soap.
Poor Airflow
Possible
How to tell: The plant is crowded by other foliage, making it a target for pests. Stagnant air allows pests to settle in without being disturbed.
What to do: Move your fern to a location with better air circulation. Regularly prune away dead or dying fronds to keep the plant clean and open.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your evergreen wood fern

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

If you see a large number of bumps and the fronds are turning yellow or drooping, the infestation is severe. Act quickly to save the plant.

Stopping it coming back

Inspect your fern every time you water it. Keeping the plant healthy and in a well-ventilated spot makes it much less attractive to pests.

Evergreen wood fern: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your evergreen wood fern and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will neem oil hurt my fern?: Neem oil can be effective, but ferns are sensitive. Test it on a single small frond first and wait 24 hours to see if it causes any damage.
How often should I check for pests?: A quick glance every time you water is perfect. It only takes a few seconds and prevents small problems from becoming big ones.

Guides to these causes

Scale Insects

How do I get rid of pests on my Evergreen wood fern?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your evergreen wood fern?