My Asparagus Fern is Horribly Root Bound

Question

My 3 yr old asparagus fern is horribly root bound with large egg-like (oval and abt. 3/4″) things all over. Do I cut them out? Can I transplant it after cutting/loosening the roots and put it into a bigger pot?

Answer 1

Yes, if it's root bound to the point that its roots cannot breathe, you definitely need to transplant the fern to another larger pot. You should also root prune the plant. These articles will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/asparagus-fern/asparagus-fern-care.htm, https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/houseplants/hpgen/prune-roots.htm As for the egg-like things, if these are orange to brown protrusions along the underside of the plant fronds, they are likely only spores and perfectly normal. On the other hand, nearly flat brown oval spots can indicate scale bugs and white or clear-looking sacs on the plant are indeed eggs left behind from a pest. After repotting your fern, treat the plant with neem oil, which should take care of any insect pest that may be affecting your plant but will not affect the spores (if this is actually what you are seeing). Here is more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/problems/pests/neem-oil-uses.htm