Sprenger's asparagus care: watering, light and repotting
Also called foxtail fern, emerald fern · Asparagus densiflorus · Asparagaceae family
10 d in winter
How often to water the Sprenger's asparagus?
Allow about 6 days between waterings in spring and summer, and 10 days in autumn and winter, when growth slows down. These rhythms apply to a room with its favourite light: in a darker room the plant drinks less; in a brighter one, it drinks more.
Tough; its fleshy roots store water. Repot as soon as the roots start lifting the root ball.
Misting every 5 days helps keep the air humid around its leaves, especially in winter when central heating dries the house out.
What light does it need?
The Sprenger's asparagus likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Repotting and fertiliser
Repot every 2 years, ideally in April, into a pot only slightly bigger than the last one. As for fertiliser, from April to September, feeding every 30 days is enough; the rest of the year, let it rest.
Adult size: Trailing stems 2–3 ft (60 cm–1 m).
Toxic to pets and children. Keep this plant out of reach and, if it is eaten, contact a vet or a poison control centre.
Common problems
Needles raining down
Cause: Dried-out root ball. What to do: Soak the pot, then water more often.
Yellow foliage
Cause: Not enough light or fertiliser. What to do: Give it more light and start feeding again.
Frequently asked questions
How often should you water the Sprenger's asparagus?
About every 6 days in spring and summer, and every 10 days in autumn and winter, in a room with its favourite light. The darker the room, the longer you wait between waterings. Before watering, check that the top inch of soil has dried.
Where should you put the Sprenger's asparagus?
The Sprenger's asparagus likes bright but filtered light: near an east- or west-facing window, or a little back from a south-facing one. Direct afternoon sun can mark the leaves.
Should you mist the Sprenger's asparagus?
Yes, misting every 5 days does it good, especially in winter when heating dries the air. Use soft, room-temperature water.
When should you repot the Sprenger's asparagus?
Every 2 years, ideally in April, or sooner if roots come out of the drainage hole. Choose a pot only slightly bigger, 1 to 1.5 in (2 to 4 cm) wider, always with a hole in the bottom.
Cats, dogs, children: is the Sprenger's asparagus safe?
The Sprenger's asparagus is toxic to pets and to children if eaten. Keep the plant out of reach and, if it's eaten, call a vet or a poison control centre.
Is it an easy plant to care for?
Yes: the Sprenger's asparagus forgives a missed watering and adapts well to the home. A good plant to start with.
These are guidelines for an indoor plant in a temperate climate. Trust the soil too: a finger pushed an inch into it will tell you whether it's thirsty.