Do these ferns go dormant?

In some climates, they may slow down growth in winter, but they are generally evergreen. They should not drop all their leaves at once.

Are scale insects hard to get rid of?

They can be persistent, so keep checking the undersides of the leaves even after you think they are gone. Consistent cleaning is the best defense.

Soft shield fern: leaf drop, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the undersides of the fronds for small bumps.
Check if the plant is near a heater or cold draft.
Verify that the plant has not been recently moved.

Likely causes

Scale Insects
Possible
How to tell: You see small, brown, bump like insects on the undersides of the fronds. These pests suck the sap and cause the plant to weaken and drop foliage.
What to do: Wipe the fronds with a damp cloth dipped in mild soapy water to remove the insects. Treat the plant with neem oil once a week for 3 weeks to ensure they are gone.
Temperature Shock
Possible
How to tell: The plant drops leaves after being moved to a new location or exposed to a sudden cold draft. Soft shield ferns prefer stable temperatures.
What to do: Move the fern to a spot away from heaters, air conditioners, or drafty windows. Keep the temperature steady between 60 to 75 degrees Fahrenheit.

Find out what's wrong with your soft shield 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

Minor leaf drop can happen when a plant is adjusting to a new home. Worry if the drop is heavy or if you see visible pests on the fronds.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant in a stable environment and inspect the fronds regularly for pests.

Keep your soft shield fern healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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

Questions people ask

Do these ferns go dormant?: In some climates, they may slow down growth in winter, but they are generally evergreen. They should not drop all their leaves at once.
Are scale insects hard to get rid of?: They can be persistent, so keep checking the undersides of the leaves even after you think they are gone. Consistent cleaning is the best defense.

Why is my soft shield fern dropping its leaves?