Keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged. Water thoroughly when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch. Avoid letting the plant sit in standing water, as this can lead to root rot.

Reduce watering slightly during cooler winter months.

Remove any yellowed, brown, or damaged fronds by cutting them back to the base of the plant. This helps maintain a tidy appearance and encourages new growth.

Pruning can be done at any time of year, but it's most effective in spring before the main growing season begins.

Southern sword ferns are typically propagated by division or by planting the small, brown spore cases found on the underside of mature fronds. Division is best done in spring when repotting.

Spores require specific conditions and are more challenging to germinate successfully for home growers.

Repot your southern sword fern every 1-2 years or when it becomes root-bound. Choose a pot that is one size larger than the current one, with good drainage.

Use a well-draining potting mix, such as a peat-based mix amended with perlite or sand.