![]() Generally, division is done every three to five years, and can be done right after the first frost in the fall (when the leaves have dropped). You may also divide if you simply want more plants. How do you know when your ferns need dividing? If you’ve noticed that the center of the clump is hollow or dead and/or the leaves are smaller than usual, it’s probably time to divide. For the home gardener, division is the most practical method. Propagationįerns may be propagated by division or from spores (see THE FERN LIFE CYCLE, below). See the chart below for cultural requirements of specific ferns. Ferns grown in wooded areas benefit from the falling leaves and pine needles in the fall. Always follow package instructions for fertilizer rates.Ī 2- to 3-inch layer of leaves or pine straw, applied in the spring and in the fall, is an excellent mulch for ferns. Complete organic fertilizers also work very well. ![]() Ferns are very sensitive to over fertilizing, so it is best to use a slow release fertilizer, such as Osmocote 14-14-14. For more information, see HGIC 1652, Soil Testing and HGIC 1650, Changing the pH of Your Soil.įertilizing should be done in spring, just after new growth has begun. Have a soil test done to check the pH, and mix ground limestone or crushed oyster shells at recommended rates into the planting area if your soil is acidic. While most of the ferns discussed here prefer acidic soils with a pH of 4 to 7, both southern and northern maidenhairs as well as ebony spleenwort prefer a more alkaline soil with a pH of 7 to 8. Many need plenty of moisture during the growing season and should be given an inch or more of water per week if not supplied by rains. Most ferns require a moist, shady spot to grow - either in a wooded area or near the north side of a building. Ferns may also be grown in raised beds, which provide good drainage. This will help prevent water from filling the holes and rotting the roots. It is wise to prepare a large area for ferns before planting, not just individual holes. Sandy soils also benefit from mixing in a 2-inch layer of organic material tilled in because it helps them retain moisture. Poultry grit (crushed granite) also works well to improve drainage and should be used in addition to organic material, not as a substitute. For heavy clay soil, mix a 2-inch layer of composted pine bark or other organic material into the top 10 inches before planting to improve drainage. CultureĪll ferns prefer well-drained soil high in organic matter. Most ferns are slow growing and can take several years to reach their mature size. Others, like royal and ostrich ferns, can tower to six feet. While most ferns average between one and three feet tall and wide, some, such as resurrection fern, grow only a few inches tall. There are ferns that will grow in every area of South Carolina. Many ferns are both cold and heat tolerant - these make the best garden plants for the South. Hardy ferns are tolerant of cold winter temperatures and can be grown outdoors year-round.
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