[header] How to divide ferns [title] Water the fern generously two days before digging it up. [step] Make sure your fern is well-hydrated as the plant's ability to absorb moisture will be diminished for a week or two after it is divided because its root system will be compromised. [title] Dig up an outdoor fern with a shovel. 
[step] Push the shovel straight down into the soil about 6 inches away from the fern stems, all the way around the fern. Then, push the shovel in again and lift the fern up out of the soil on the tip of the shovel.