Should I prune the long, leggy fronds?

Yes, you can trim them back to the base to encourage the plant to grow more compactly. Use clean, sharp scissors for a clean cut.

Will more fertilizer help it grow fuller?

No, over fertilizing can actually cause more harm than good. Focus on fixing the light and humidity first.

American royal fern: leggy growth, causes and fixes

Check these first

Assess the light intensity where the fern is currently sitting.
Check the humidity levels in the room.
Observe if the plant is leaning heavily toward a window.

Likely causes

Insufficient light
Possible
How to tell: The fronds grow long and sparse as the plant stretches toward the nearest light source. The overall shape becomes thin and weak.
What to do: Move the fern to a spot with brighter, indirect light. Avoid direct afternoon sun, which will scorch the fronds.
Low humidity
Possible
How to tell: The fronds may look stretched and brittle, often with brown, crispy edges. The plant struggles to maintain its lush, full appearance.
What to do: Place the fern on a pebble tray filled with water to boost local humidity. You can also group it with other plants to create a more humid microclimate.

Leggy growth in other plants

Find out what's wrong with your american royal 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

It is normal for older fronds to eventually fade, but if the new growth is consistently thin, the plant needs a change in environment. Do not worry if the plant is just adjusting to a new spot.

Stopping it coming back

Provide consistent, bright indirect light and keep the soil damp at all times. Regular light pruning of old, tired fronds encourages the plant to put energy into new growth.

American royal fern: leggy growth? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your american royal 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

Should I prune the long, leggy fronds?: Yes, you can trim them back to the base to encourage the plant to grow more compactly. Use clean, sharp scissors for a clean cut.
Will more fertilizer help it grow fuller?: No, over fertilizing can actually cause more harm than good. Focus on fixing the light and humidity first.

Why is my American royal fern looking thin and leggy?