| When to Plant: | |
| Spring |
| Blooms: | |
| Summer to Fall Foliage |
| Light Requirements: | |
| Partial Shade to Full Shade |
| Plant Height: | ||
| Varies by type. Ranges from 8-36". | ||
| Hardiness Zones: | |
| Grow as Perennial in zones 3-9. Grow as Annual elsewhere. Find Your Zone |
| Planting Depth: | |
| 1-2" |
| Plant Spacing: | |
| Varies by type. Ranges from 6-24". |
| Plant Type: | |
| Bare Root |
Ferns create a woodland feel in the garden as nice background plants. Although ferns prefer shade, some varieties will grow in full sun. Ferns are most beautiful in spring when the fronds start to unfurl. Very low maintenance. Ferns multiply quickly to form colonies. Deer and critter resistant.
Plant Ferns outdoors in spring after all danger of frost has passed in a partially shaded to full shade location.
The ideal soil is rich and porous and drains well, yet still holds enough water for the roots. If your soil is heavy clay and drains slowly, or very sandy and does not hold water, add organic soil amendments like peat moss or ground bark. Spread a 3-4 inch layer of soil amendment if needed and incorporate into the soil to a depth of 10 inches.
Plant roots 1-2" deep and 12-24" apart. Cover with soil. Water thoroughly at planting. While actively growing, water frequently and thoroughly so that water will reach roots. Mulch to keep the soil cool and to prevent the soil from drying out.
Fertilize during growing period.
Equally happy in average or moist soil. Some fern varieties will grow in sun with constant moisture. Not fussy - adapts well to less than ideal conditions.
Cut back fronds as they die out in hot summers.
