Description
Well-appointed woodland gardens should reserve plenty of room for fancy fronds, and the Ostrich Fern is one of the all time best. Tall feathery plumes of green rise to 3 ft. producing large stands over time if grown in moist, humus-rich soils.
How to Grow
Keep weeds under control during the growing season. Weeds compete with plants for water, space and nutrients, so control them by either cultivating often or use a mulch to prevent their germination.
Mulches also help retain soil moisture and maintain even soil temperatures. For perennials, an organic mulch of aged bark or shredded leaves lends a natural look to the bed and will improve the soil as it breaks down in time. Always keep mulches off a plant’s stems to prevent possible rot.
Careful watering is essential in getting perennials off to a good start. Water thoroughly at least once a week to help new roots grow down deeply. Soil should be damp at about 1 inch below the soil surface. You can check this by sticking your finger in the soil. Water early in the morning to give all leaves enough time to dry. One inch of rain or watering per week is recommended for most perennial plants. You can check to see if you need to add water by using a rain gauge.
Until plants become established, some protection from extreme winds and direct, hot sunlight may be necessary. Good air movement is also important.
After new growth appears, a light fertilizer may be applied. Keep granular fertilizers away from the plant crown and foliage to avoid burn injury.
Ferns are low-maintenance plants, but they need a consistently moist soil in order to thrive, but do not leave ferns in standing water.
Tips
You can propagate ferns by division in fall or spring.
Fern foliage is great for greenery in flower arrangements.
Ferns are perfect for shade gardens and woodland areas. They combine well with hostas and other perennials that do well in shade.Creeping ferns make great groundcovers.
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