what is the best ferns to grow

Choosing the best fern to plant depends on many factors, including where you’re growing, size requirements, and style preferences. Some of the all-around favorites that grow in a wide range of environments include maidenhair ferns, leatherwood ferns, and royal ferns.

Full Answer

What is the best fern for full sun?

Woolly lip fern

• Cheilanthes tomentosa
• Evergreen
• Full sun
• Height: up to 0.5 m
• Soil: acid or neutral. Moist, well-drained.

What is the best time of year to plant ferns?

Steps

1. Get the fern started indoors, especially if you live in an area with unreliable weather for your particular breed of fern.
2. Figure out the time of year best for planting. During the Spring season (where winter is cold and wet where you live) is best.
3. Get the fern ready to be moved. ...
4. Dig out a generous ball of the roots. ...

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What are the best Ferns for shade?

Top Ten List for Shade

• Garden Ferns Main Page
• Top 10 Hardy Ferns
• Polystichum varieties, Polystichum polyblepharum – Damp shade, evergreen in milder areas. ...
• Matteuccia struthiopteris – Ostrich Feather or Shuttlecock Fern with upright fronds reaching a meter in height. ...
• Dryopteris filix - mas – the Male Fern is always a favourite – easy to get and easy to keep. ...

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Can potted ferns survive the winter?

Ferns grown in containers outdoors may survive the winter in very cold climates if you bring them indoors. Indoors, give your fern a medium level of indirect light, no additional fertilizer and a bit less water than you gave it during the growing season outdoors. Similarly one may ask, can ferns survive the winter?

What is the easiest fern to grow?

Boston Fern - Nephrolepis Exaltata The Boston fern is one the easiest of ferns to grow indoors, although it still is a needy species and does not like the initial move from one place to another or from outdoors to indoors. The arching fronds grow in a manner that makes them an ideal hanging basket plant.

Which fern is best for outdoors?

Today, Boston fern is still a top pick for indoor and outdoor settings. But, because Boston fern can grow 3 feet tall and 3 feet wide, it are often a better choice for outdoor situations.

What is the fastest growing ferns?

Graceful upright fronds resemble ostrich feathers! Charming fiddleheads unfurl in spring. Grows vigorously, quickly filling your garden.

What kind of ferns come back every year?

Autumn Fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) With its frilly evergreen fronds, the Autumn Fern provides color in your garden all year round. It has coppery pink fronds that emerge in the spring. They mature to deep green in the summer.

What is the prettiest fern?

Most Beautiful FernsCotton Candy Boston Fern. Botanical Name: Nephrolepis exaltata 'Cotton Candy' ... Tricolor Fern. wingardium.deliciosa. ... Orlando Fern. Botanical Name: Nephrolepis exaltata 'Orlando' ... Rowerii Fern. Botanical Name: Pteris cretica 'Rowerii' ... Lemon Button Fern. ... Miniature Tree Fern. ... Rosy Maidenhair Fern. ... Staghorn Fern.More items...•

When should you plant ferns?

Ferns can be planted all year round, but the ideal time depends on the hardiness of the fern and your local climate. For frost-hardy ferns and regions with hot summers, the optimal time to plant out is the fall. For more cold-sensitive ferns or regions with hard winters, the best time to plant is spring.

Do ferns like sun or shade?

Ferns are a natural inhabitant of shady areas, most commonly found where they will get at least some sun during part of the day or where they will receive dappled sunlight most of the day. In fact most ferns will not grow that well in real dense shade, they need a bit of sun to grow their best.

Where is the best place to plant ferns?

shadyMost ferns prefer a shady location, but they don't do well in deep shade. The dabbled shade provided by tree branches provide the best conditions. Think about how they grow in the forest and try and find similar conditions in your yard.

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.

Should ferns be cut back for winter?

Pruning evergreen ferns The trick: Prune them at just the right time, and it takes no time at all! To avoid a mish-mash mess, cut all of the fronds from your fern to the ground late each winter or early each spring. Once all of the fronds are cut down, each plant should look like a tiny, curled fist on the ground.

Are ferns low maintenance?

Ferns, in general, are fairly low-maintenance compared to other plants. They really only need a few things, most of which is pretty simple and makes a lot of sense when you consider their natural habitat.

Can any ferns take full sun?

Ferns for full sun include: Bracken Fern, Japanese Climbing Fern, Maidenhair Spleenwort, Meadow Fern, Moa, Northern Maidenhair Fern, Pellaea, Sensitive Fern, Silver Elkhorn Fern, and Water Fern. Some of these ferns have attractive foliage and can grow quite tall!

Are there any ferns that like full sun?

Ferns for full sun include: Bracken Fern, Japanese Climbing Fern, Maidenhair Spleenwort, Meadow Fern, Moa, Northern Maidenhair Fern, Pellaea, Sensitive Fern, Silver Elkhorn Fern, and Water Fern. Some of these ferns have attractive foliage and can grow quite tall!

How long do ferns last outside?

On the coldest end of the scale, hardy ferns can survive temperatures down to minus 50 degrees Fahrenheit. However, hardy ferns in USDA zones 2 through 6, tend to be semi-evergreen. In most cases, it is safe to leave many hardy ferns outdoors all winter long. A few, however, are only cold-hardy to USDA zones 6 or 7.

What is the most drought tolerant fern?

Western chain fern (Polystichum munitum) is more drought tolerant than giant chain fern and may reach a height of five feet under cultivated conditions.

Do ferns like sun or shade?

Ferns are a natural inhabitant of shady areas, most commonly found where they will get at least some sun during part of the day or where they will receive dappled sunlight most of the day. In fact most ferns will not grow that well in real dense shade, they need a bit of sun to grow their best.

What is the best fern to grow in a shady garden?

The dark green to bluish-green fronds are 5 to 8” wide and have a leathery texture. Leatherwood fern should be grown in moist soil, and be protected from sun and drying winds. This compact and well-mannered fern is a great choice for any shady garden. Hardy in zones 3-8.

What are some good plants to plant with ferns?

Use them as specimen plants or for background plantings, or interplant them with other shade loving plants such as hostas, astilbes, dicentras and caladiums.

How tall do ostrich ferns grow?

These native, clump-forming ferns have a big presence in the landscape. They have an upright growth habit and by late summer will often stand 4 to 6-feet tall, with a 3 to 6-foot spread. Ostrich ferns produce two types of fronds. The showy, "infertile fronds" are long and lacy like an ostrich plume.

How big do lady ferns get?

This named variety was selected for its showy red stem color. The deeply cut, light green fronds are 6 to 9” wide and 2-3 feet long. The glossy red stems intensify in color as the plants mature. Grows 24-30” tall and 18-24” wide.

How long are ostrich ferns?

They emerge from the base of the plant in early spring, curled up like a fiddlehead, and slowly unfurl to their full, 4-foot length.

What type of soil do ferns like?

Most ferns grow best in loose, loamy soil that is rich in organic matter. Before planting, take the time to work in some compost and peat moss. Most ferns are not fussy about soil pH, but some types prefer acidic soil,. Check the pH of the soil in the planting area and match the plant to the growing conditions.

What are ferns good for?

Plus, they are incredibly easy to grow and are rarely troubled by diseases or pests, including deer and rabbits. Ferns have an air of untamed wildness about them. In a garden, they can introduce a sense of calm, harmony and permanence.

What are some good companion plants for ferns?

Other deer-resistant companions include astilbe, hellebore, barrenwort, and heart-leaf brunnera.

How tall do ferns grow?

Ferns can reach 12 inches to 6 feet tall, depending on the type and growing conditions. Most prefer rich, humus-filled soil so make sure to mix compost into planting holes and cover them annually with 2 inches of organic mulch. Like other perennial plants, you can divide ferns in spring or fall.

Do feathery leaves mix well with other plants?

Their feathery leaves mix well with lots of other shade-loving plants. These low-maintenance perennials are a must for dark, damp places in your yard. Their feathery leaves mix well with lots of other shade-loving plants.

Can ferns grow in shade?

For shady spots, you can rely on ferns to deliver welcome color and texture, especially when mixed with flowering plants that also do well in shade. They also make an excellent choice if there are too many deer in your neighborhood to grow hostas and other shade-loving plants, because ferns tend to be low on the menu.

What is the best fern to grow indoors?

The Best Ferns to Grow Indoors. Green up your home with a graceful, tropical fern. Potted Boston Ferns. Greenery is the best way to add an element of life to a space. Be careful when choosing plants: you want to make sure you can provide proper maintenance. Ferns are one of the most carefree plants available, and Boston ferns tend ...

What type of light do ferns like?

Most ferns are happy with indirect light from a north-facing window or, during the summer, in the filtered light from an eastern exposure. Avoid windows that face the west or south; they can become too hot.

How do you know if a fern is too dry?

Average homes are much drier, especially when the heat is running in the wintertime. You’ll know plant is too dry if the tips of its fronds turn brown or die.

How tall does Maidenhair Fern grow?

Since it grows just 12 to 18 inches tall, it’s a good choice for gardeners who don’t have much room. Maidenhair fern (Adiantum) earns a spot on our list because of its lacy, airy foliage and slender, black stems—but it needs constant moisture and can be tricky to grow indoors.

What is the best houseplant for removing air pollutants?

Meet a half-dozen of our indoor favorites. Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata), sometimes called sword or ladder fern, was as popular with Victorian gardeners as it is today. It’s also considered one of the most effective houseplants for removing air pollutants.

How to keep ferns from getting soggy?

Although most ferns like to stay evenly moist, don’t let them get soggy. Water until the water drains out the bottom of the container and dump any excess. Give your fern good air circulation. If scale, mealybugs, mites or other pests show up, knock them off with a spray of room temperature water in the sink or shower.

How tall does a silver brake fern grow?

Silver Brake (Pteris cretica) is a low-maintenance plant with attractive, silvery stripes on its fronds. These ferns grow about 2 feet tall and wide and are pretty in pots or hanging baskets. While they like daytime temperatures that range from 68 to 72 degrees F, they prefer a drop to around 50 to 55 degrees at night.

What is the most exotic fern?

It is one of the Most Exotic Ferns you can grow. 13. Japanese Bird’s Nest Fern. Botanical Name: Asplenium antiquum. This variety is easy to maintain and slow-growing. It offers medium green leaves with a bit of a wave to them that looks classy! 14. Mahogany Fern. Botanical Name: Didymochlaena truncatula.

How tall does a fern grow?

This evergreen fern can grow up to a foot tall and has three-pinnate fronds. The new growth offers pink-flushed rosy leaves hence the name.

What is the best houseplant to grow in a pot?

It is quite easy to grow and makes for a great houseplant. 10. Kangaroo Fern. Botanical Name: Microsorum diversifolium. Kangaroo fern offers deep green undivided fronds and has a creeping growth habit along with the soil with fuzzy stems that dangles over the sides of its pot.

What color is the Autumn Fern?

Autumn fern displays shiny green fronds blushed with bronze-orange as they develop, giving this fern its common seasonal name.

What is a kangaroo fern?

Kangaroo fern offers deep green undivided fronds and has a creeping growth habit along with the soil with fuzzy stems that dangles over the sides of its pot.

How big does a fern get?

This easy-to-grow, vigorous fern produces blue-green fronds with frilled edges. It can grow up to 10-14 inches tall and wide.

What is a table fern?

Also known as table fern or Cretan brake fern, this beautiful houseplant has a medium growth rate and variegated fronds.

What is the best soil for ferns?

Rather than standard potting soil , ferns will grow best in a richer medium, such as a fern-specific commercial mix or compost mixed with peat moss and sand. Repotting is necessary when the plant begins to crowd its container, which may lead to smaller fronds. The Spruce / Kara Riley.

How tall do ferns grow?

Some are giant tree-like plants, while others rarely grow above one inch in height. Most like shady conditions, but a few grow best in nearly full sun. Some like dry soil, while most need to be kept constantly moist. However, there are some common things to know if you want to grow ferns in your garden or home.

How to get fern spores out of potting soil?

Fill a flat or another container with sterile, moistened potting mix designed for ferns. Shake the spores off the paper or bag directly on top of the mix and press gently, so the spores make good contact with the soil. Mist the surface of the potting mix, to moisten the spores and keep them in place.

How to propagate ferns from spores?

Propagating Ferns From Spores 1 Fill a flat or another container with sterile, moistened potting mix designed for ferns. Shake the spores off the paper or bag directly on top of the mix and press gently, so the spores make good contact with the soil. 2 Mist the surface of the potting mix, to moisten the spores and keep them in place. 3 Cover the container with plastic and place it in a tray filled with one to two inches of water. Move to a warm spot, with indirect sunlight. 4 Keep replacing the water in the tray until you see signs of growth. This can take 6 to 12 weeks, so be patient and don't let the soil dry out. 5 The first thing you will see will be small heart-shaped shoots called prothalli. These can be gently lifted out of the container and moved into individual pots filled with damp, sterile fern potting mix. Leave the transplants uncovered, but keep them moist. 6 Once the prothalli begin developing fronds, they can be slowly hardened off and transplanted outdoors.

How do ferns reproduce?

Instead, ferns propagate via spores, which are reproductive units that look like small dots on the undersides of the fronds. Fern plants can drop millions of spores onto the ground, but only a few will find ideal conditions to grow. Ferns have been in existence for more than 300 million years, and are easily recognizable because of their lace-like leaves, known as fronds .

How long have ferns been around?

Ferns have been in existence for more than 300 million years, and are easily recognizable because of their lace-like leaves, known as fronds .

Why are my ferns weak?

Ferns that get too much sun, or are growing in subpar soil, will be weak and won't spread as vigorously.

What is the best fern to grow in a container?

A lush fern that will fill a container with finely textured foliage, Velociraptor is perfect for containers and thrives in a bright window out of direct sunlight. Keep the soil evenly moist and do not allow it to dry out. Zones 7-9.

How to keep ferns green?

Keep ferns away from radiators, bright, hot, sunny windows, and use a pebble tray (right) to add moisture. Even after all of that, your ferns still might look unhappy. If so, consider moving them to a regularly-used bathroom with a shower or into a terrarium or Wardian case. Moved potted plants outside as soon as weather permits.

How to grow Sprenger asparagus fern?

Provide humidity by placing it on a store-bought or homemade pebble tray. Make your own pebble tray by filling a bowl or tray with pebbles or small rocks, and filling it with water, then place your plant on top. Mist this fern a few times a week for added moisture. Compact, it forms a nice, tidy shape that looks great planted in a basket hung in a sunny, but not hot, window. Zones 9-11.

What is an Australian tree fern?

Finely cut, broad, and bright-green fronds form a graceful canopy atop a slender trunk, giving the Australian Tree Fern an exotic look reminiscent of tropical climes. The perfect indoor specimen plant, it can grow quite tall in a large container. Grow in bright, indirect light and keep the soil evenly moist. Zones 10-11.

What color fronds are good for indoor plants?

Short, spreading habit looks great planted in a low trough set in a bright, but not hot, and sunny window. Silvery-blue fronds add a bit of light to indoor plantings. Like it’s red-hued cousin, a bit of a challenge, but offers a big wow, too. Keep soil evenly moist. Zones 5–8.

Can Maidenhair Fern grow indoors?

A cold-hardy fern known for its outdoor appeal, the American Maidenhair fern is also a rewarding fern to grow indoors. It can be a bit of a diva if not kept constantly moist, but not soggy. Mist often and mulch to help the soil retain moisture. Set a few feet from a southern or eastern-facing window; turn weekly to ensure even light. Yes, it’s worth it. Zones 3–8.

Why are Indoor Ferns Popular?

Indoor ferns are popular as houseplants because they add a pop of bright color and creative natural structure to any room. There are small varieties, ferns up to six feet tall, hardy, and more delicate options, so you can own an ancient tropical plant no matter how skilled you are at gardening. With long, flowing fronds, incredible texture, and bright color, it’s no wonder so many gardeners are attracted to this plant.

How to propagate ferns?

Here are some pointers for doing so. Division is the most common way to propagate your fern. If your fern has creeping rhizomes, you can divide it up, making sure the segments are three or four inches long and contain a minimum of one bud. Otherwise, gently cut and separate roots to establish new, smaller plants.

What is a staghorn fern?

Staghorn or elkhorn ferns are from the genus Platycerium which makes up about 18 unique fern species. Staghorn ferns are unique compared to many other popular ferns in that they are epiphytes, living on trees instead of in the soil. They have pronounced sporophytes, their stags, and pronounced gametophytes, the shields.

Where does the lemon button fern come from?

Lemon Button ferns, or Nephrolepis cordifolia, is a small and delicate fern indigenous to Hawaii. It gets its name from a subtle lemony scent that it gives off during its growing season. This plant is a beautiful, low-maintenance option for anyone interested in adding a fern to their collection.

Where does the Japanese painted fern come from?

The Japanese Painted fern, or Athyrium niponicum, comes from Eastern Asia. This colorful fern gets its name due to its silver fronds and dark red stems, making it an appealing option to grow at home. While most fronds offer an evergreen backdrop to your garden, this beauty will stand out like a work of art and liven up any space.

What is the name of the act of collecting ferns?

During the Victorian era, fern collecting grew so popular that there was a name for it. Pteridomania was the act of gathering ferns or using them in decorative art, like pottery or textiles. Ferns also show up in folklore. In Slavic tradition, anyone who sees a rare fern flower will receive happiness and riches for life. Finnish folklore says anyone who holds a fern’s seed on Midsummer night will be able to move about invisibly to seek hidden treasure. In the US, ferns are said to contain magical properties, warding off evil spirits if thrown into burning coals.

How big do royal ferns get?

Royal ferns, or Osmunda spectabilis, are a large fern that can grow up to one meter high. They produce large, light green foliage, adding a bold statement to your indoor decor.