FAQs
Most ferns are woodland plants that like light or dappled shade. They can usually tolerate some sun, as long as they have plenty of moisture. Ferns like soil that is rich in organic matter, such as garden compost or leafmould.
What is the secret to growing ferns? ›
Ferns either prefer or require indirect light for production of high-quality fronds (leaves). They are excellent plants for shady areas where other plants will not grow well. Avoid direct exposure to afternoon sun. Outdoor planted ferns can be divided by separating clump or cutting off established runners.
What are the planting instructions for ferns? ›
How to plant ferns. Plant ferns between May and September, ideally in humus-rich, well-drained but moist soil. Add leaf mould to the planting hole if you can – manure and compost can be too rich for them. When planting, avoid covering the crown of the fern with soil as this can rot.
Do ferns grow better in pots or the ground? ›
Ferns prefer a shaded area and consistently moist soil conditions. Potted ferns will dry out a lot faster in a container versus those planted in the ground. Proper watering is the key to keeping your fern happy and healthy. Too much or too little watering can have adverse effects when it comes to a fern.
Where is the best place to plant a fern? ›
Therefore, it is best to plant the fern plants in the shady areas of your garden. Let the place be mildly shady but not completely shaded. Ideal shades would be those from the tall trees creating a woodland feel with filtered light. Ferns like maidenhair grow well in dappled shade.
Does Epsom salt help ferns grow? ›
Super-short science lesson: Epsom salt contains high levels of the micronutrients magnesium and sulfur, essential elements for plants that help them grow, produce more flowers, and increase chlorophyll production (which makes them greener!).
Why are ferns so hard to keep alive? ›
Household ferns won't tolerate dry conditions for long; their fronds will quickly turn brown, and they will begin to drop leaves. Mist your ferns as often as practical, preferably in the morning.
Do ferns need to be planted deep? ›
Dig a hole that is slightly wider and just as deep as the root ball of the fern. When planted, you want the soil level of the root ball to be just slightly above (1/2 inch or so) the soil around it.
How to encourage ferns to spread? ›
The quickest way to grow more ferns is through division, preferably in spring. Start by watering your plant the day before you begin. Then, dig it up or gently remove it from its container, and cut or pull the plant into 2 or 3 clumps. Leave at least one growing tip—the spot from which the fronds grow—in each clump.
Do ferns grow back if you cut them? ›
Once all of the fronds are cut down, each plant should look like a tiny, curled fist on the ground. Each of those fists will unfurl delicate fronds as the days of spring lengthen, forming a fresh new plant for the rest of the year.
Ferns prefer a slightly acid potting mix with pH ranging from 5.5 to 6.0. The mix must be able to hold moisture and so it is essential to use one which contains a large percentage of peat moss. Searles Terrarium & Fern Mix is ideal to foster the lush healthy growth and prevent dryout of the soil.
Do ferns prefer morning or afternoon sun? ›
There are several ferns that are tolerant of sunny conditions; again strive for morning sun locations and water when necessary to make sure they grow well.
What grows well with ferns? ›
You can use them as specimen plants or as companions for other shade-loving perennials such as hosta, astilbe, bleeding heart (Dicentra) and caladiums. Tall ferns can create a wonderful sense of enclosure, while shorter types can be used to soften the edges of pathways or rocky outcroppings.
How often should you water ferns? ›
In the summer months, aim to water your ferns every 4-5 days. During the winter, allow for a longer interval of 7-10 days. Keep in mind these guidelines to ensure your ferns stay healthy and thrive all year round. When it comes to feeding, liquid fertiliser is the way to go.
What does a fern need to thrive? ›
In general, for maximum growth and health, it is important to provide ferns with plenty of humidity, generous watering, lots of space, sufficient light without direct sun exposure, and rich, well-draining soil.
Do you put Miracle Grow on ferns? ›
Feed outdoor ferns with Miracle-Gro® Water Soluble All Purpose Plant Food and indoor ferns with Miracle-Gro® Indoor Plant Food. Prune when the plant looks scraggly or has dropped a lot of leaves. Provide indoor Boston ferns with additional humidity as needed.
How do you encourage ferns to spread? ›
The quickest way to grow more ferns is through division, preferably in spring. Start by watering your plant the day before you begin. Then, dig it up or gently remove it from its container, and cut or pull the plant into 2 or 3 clumps. Leave at least one growing tip—the spot from which the fronds grow—in each clump.
How do I keep my ferns looking good? ›
Make sure the fern receives plenty of water. Daily water is ideal but a minimum of once every 3 days (a deep soak) is a must. Mist the ferns on dry/hot days to maintain a humid environment. Fertilize but do not over fertilize.
