How to Grow and Care for Japanese Fern Tree

The Japanese fern tree has a misleading name because it is not from Japan nor a true fern. It is a smaller tropical tree that grows a tight, dense round crown of graceful fern-like leaves on a straight trunk. The Japanese fern tree grows best in tropical conditions because of its high need for direct sunlight, high humidity, and warmth. It requires full sun but partial shade when planted in hot, dry climates and it needs acidic, well-draining soil. This tree cannot withstand temperatures that dip below 50 or 55 degrees Fahrenheit but it has deep roots that can survive tropical storms and hurricanes.

Japanese Fern Tree Care

Here are the main care requirements for growing a Japanese fern tree.

• Choose a very sunny spot for a Japanese fern tree but a partially shaded area if planted in hot, dry climates.
• Place the tree far enough away (at least 10 feet) from any existing structures or other trees so its widely expanding globed crown has room to fully develop.
• Plant in alkaline, very well-draining soil.
• Water young trees well, reduce watering as the trees mature.
• Use only a superior-quality fertilizer for this particular tree.
• Clean away any leaves the tree sheds as it ages.

Light

The Japanese fern tree prefers lots of direct sunlight and you should aim to plant it in a place that will get at least eight hours of sun a day (or more). If you live in an especially hot or dry climate, the plant can withstand partially shaded spots, especially during the hotter afternoon hours.

Soil

For your Japanese fern tree to thrive, plant it in well-draining soil. A general potting mixture can usually suffice if grown in a pot, but if outdoors, you should make sure your soil is strongly alkaline. You should do your best to avoid planting the tree in a spot that has arid or especially wet soil.

Water

For best results, water your fern tree regularly, but make sure not to soak it. Giving the tree a few days for its soil to dry out before you water it again is a good idea. This tree becomes more drought-tolerant as it matures.

Temperature and Humidity

The Japanese fern tree prefers warm, tropical temperatures and does not tolerate frost. Ensure that the tree is not exposed to temperatures below 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit or it will not thrive. It also loves humidity, so your tree will benefit from a climate that already boasts above-average humidity levels.

Fertilizer

Japanese fern trees should be fertilized three times a year in the fall, spring, and summer with a top-quality fertilizer with slow time release. If left unfertilized the tree will grow slower. When feeding your tree, make sure to opt for a high-quality fertilizer blend you trust—the heavy salts found in some cheaper blends can damage the tree's roots.

Pruning

The crown naturally grows into a globe shape and does not need pruning. It is fine to remove lower branches to neaten it up and expose more of the trunk. However, if you do not want to clean up volunteer seedlings, you can deadhead the tree's blooms (though they are barely visible) so it does not self-seed when it fruits.

How to Grow Japanese Fern From Seed

Since the Japanese fern tree is not a true fern, it can be propagated by seed from its fruits, and natural germination should work just fine since this tree can self-seed. The tree cannot be propagated by taking cuttings. Sow the seeds in the fall and give them time to get settled—they should begin to germinate by the early spring. Here's how:

1. Soak the seeds in water at room temperature for about 24 hours before planting to soften the exterior and increase the chances of germination.
2. Plant seeds in a well-draining container. Do not sow the seeds too deep because they won't sprout properly.
3. Avoid planting seeds in soaked or soggy soil.
4. Add composted cow manure to the soil to help the seeds germinate well.

Potting and Repotting Japanese Fern Tree

Japanese fern trees can grow indoors if you have the height and space in a room to contain it but it is rarely done and prefers to be grown outdoors. But you can pot the tree and place it outdoors on a deck or patio where it can grow tall.

To plant, choose a general potting mixture that is slightly alkaline. Your pot should be well-draining. A smaller type of Japanese fern tree can grow in a pot that is at least 12 to 16 inches in diameter and larger types need a container that is 16 to 30 inches in diameter. A 14-inch deep container will be fine until it needs repotting. 

Since this plant is fairly slow-growing, you won't need to replant often. Once you notice the roots filling the container, it's time to move to a larger container.

Overwintering

Japanese fern trees prefer warm, tropical environments. Do not expose the tree to temperatures colder than 50 to 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Cover it with a plant blanket when necessary. It's not advisable to grow these trees outdoors in cold climates unless you have room, warmth, and bright light indoors to bring in a potted tree for the duration of the colder months. Bring potted Japanese fern trees indoors into the garage or a sheltered area if temperatures are going to temporarily plummet.

Common Problems with Japanese Fern Tree

The Japanese fern tree is virtually free from pests and diseases. However, stay on the lookout for these issues.

Yellowing Leaves

There are a few reasons why the leaves of a Japanese fern tree could be turning yellow. The tree could be receiving too much sun or it was exposed to cold temperatures for too long of a time. If the leaves are yellowing and also severely wilting, this could be a sign of root rot.

Rotted Base, Stunted Growth

A Japanese fern tree with a rotting base and stunted growth may be planted in poorly draining soil and has root rot. If it is in the ground, you can amend the soil and if it's in a pot, check the root system for rot.