Reviving a Winter-Damaged Boston Fern

Melissa's Boston fern was huge and beautiful in summer but after winter outdoors in East Texas (covered during freezes), it's 90% brown with some new green fronds. She asks whether to cut dead limbs and if it can recover.

Expert Answer: The root system is alive. Take the plant to a cleanup area, tilt it, and strip or cut off all dead leaves and stems, being careful of new growth. Fertilize and keep in bright light; it should regrow a healthy plant fairly quickly.