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Ferns

All ferns plants

The Fascinating World of Ferns: A Growing Guide

Our fascination with ferns began years ago when we first spotted their delicate unfurling fronds in a woodland garden. These remarkable plants have quite the story to tell - they've been thriving on earth for over 358 million years, making them one of our oldest plant families still gracing our gardens today. What we find absolutely incredible is their diversity - from tiny specimens barely reaching 1 cm to magnificent tree ferns that tower up to 25 metres high.

We are often asked whether ferns are difficult to grow, and we are always delighted to share that these ancient beauties are surprisingly adaptable. Despite their prehistoric origins, they make wonderfully low-maintenance additions to both indoor and outdoor spaces. In our experience, most ferns are quite content in shady, moist spots, and we've found they show remarkable resistance to pests and diseases - perfect whether you're just starting your gardening journey or have been tending plants for years.

Throughout this guide, we'll share everything we've learned about growing these versatile plants. Whether you fancy adding some greenery to your windowsill or dream of creating a lush woodland corner in your garden, we'll help you understand exactly what ferns need to thrive. Trust us, once you start growing ferns, you'll wonder how your garden ever did without them!

Getting to Know Your Ferns

"Ferns are fabulous. They are amongst the first plants on earth to form a vascular system, allowing them to tower over mosses and grow to heights never before seen on earth." Christopher Satch, Plant scientist and horticulturist

One of the first things that fascinated us about ferns was their unique way of reproducing. Unlike the showy flowers we're all familiar with, these ancient plants rely on tiny spores rather than seeds or flowers. Mother Nature really outdid herself here - ferns have mastered a clever two-phase life cycle where both stages can exist independently.

What Sets Ferns Apart

When we're teaching gardening workshops, we always explain ferns' structure using three key parts. The fronds are truly remarkable - they're not just pretty faces doing photosynthesis; they're also responsible for reproduction. Then there's the rhizome acting as the stem, busily producing roots and new growth. Our favourite part, though, has to be watching the fiddleheads (or koru as they're traditionally known) unfurling into fresh new fronds.

These plants are proper survivors, too. Whilst 70% of fern species thrive in tropical regions, we've seen them happily settling into all sorts of different spots alongside flowering plants. They're particularly clever in shady spots - on rainforest floors, they often outshine their flowering neighbours.

Ferns That Love Life Indoors

Through years of growing ferns, we've found several varieties that absolutely thrive indoors:

Boston Fern (Nephrolepis exaltata): You'll spot these lovely specimens by their gracefully arching fronds - proper classics in the fern world
Bird's Nest Fern (Asplenium nidus): I always recommend this award-winner to beginners - it's wonderfully forgiving
Button Fern (Pellaea rotundifolia): Look out for those distinctive rounded leaflets marching along dark stems
Blue Star Fern (Phlebodium aureum): The blue-tinted foliage on this beauty never fails to catch visitors' eyes
Rabbit's Foot Fern (Davallia fejeensis): Rather quirky this one, with its furry, claw-like stems

Stars of the Garden

In our garden, certain ferns have proven themselves proper champions. The hard fern (Blechnum spicant) and shuttlecock fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris) are absolute stars in shady corners. The Japanese-painted fern (Athyrium niponicum) is a particular favourite of ours - its silver and burgundy colours never fail to draw admiring glances.

For those wanting year-round interest, you can't go wrong with evergreen varieties like Asplenium scolopendrium - they just need a quick tidy-up in spring. The autumn fern (Dryopteris erythrosora) puts on quite a show through the seasons - watching its new growth change from red to bronze and finally to green is rather like having a living colour wheel in your garden.

Most garden ferns are happiest in moist, well-drained soil. But don't let that fool you - once they've settled in, many woodland ferns are surprisingly tough cookies, handling both sunny spots and dry spells rather well. Add their natural resistance to deer browsing, and you've got yourself some properly useful garden plants.

Starting with Indoor Ferns

Our very first indoor fern was a rather sad-looking specimen rescued from a local garden centre's clearance shelf. Little did we know then that this scraggly plant would spark a proper passion for growing ferns indoors. There's something quite magical about bringing these woodland beauties into our homes - they add such a lovely touch of natural charm and create the most wonderfully calming atmosphere.

Choosing your first fern

Selecting the right fern can make all the difference between success and watching your plant slowly crisp up (trust us, we've been there!). Boston ferns are brilliant for beginners - they're surprisingly forgiving if you forget about them now and then. We absolutely adore their graceful, arching fronds - pop one in your living room and suddenly you've got a bit of jungle paradise right there.

When it comes to pots, here's a lesson we learned the hard way - always choose one that's just a smidge larger than the root ball. These plants have rather shallow roots, so proper drainage holes are absolutely essential. For compost, you'll want something rich in organic matter with good drainage - soggy bottoms are never popular with ferns!

We've found our ferns are happiest in rooms where there's a bit more moisture in the air - bathrooms and kitchens are perfect. If you're placing them elsewhere, a humidifier works wonders, or you could try misting the leaves regularly (though do avoid doing this late in the day, as wet leaves overnight can lead to problems).

Light and temperature needs

Getting the light right can be a bit tricky at first. Our best success has been near east-facing windows, where they catch that lovely gentle morning light. If you've only got southern or western windows, pop a sheer curtain between the window and your fern as their delicate fronds can burn rather easily.

Temperature-wise, these plants are rather like Goldilocks - they like things just right. During the day, they're happiest between 18.3-24°C, and at night, they actually prefer things a bit cooler, about 10 degrees lower. Keep your leafy friends away from:

Those pesky drafty windows and doors
Radiators and other heat sources
Air conditioning vents (they really don't appreciate the cold blasts)
Cold spots below 10°C

Now, whilst ferns might sound a bit fussy about their growing conditions, once they're settled in the right spot, they're actually quite easygoing houseplants. Even in homes with central heating, most indoor varieties do splendidly well, as long as they've got decent indirect light and consistent moisture. Rather like house guests, really - get them comfortable and they'll be happy to stay!

Moving Ferns Outdoors

Last spring, we rather eagerly moved our collection of indoor ferns out to the garden at the first sight of warm weather. What a mistake that turned out to be! A late frost caught us out and gave our precious plants quite the shock. Mind you, it taught us a valuable lesson about patience when transitioning ferns from cosy indoor spaces to the great outdoors.

The secret, we've discovered, is treating your ferns rather like children learning to swim - you wouldn't just chuck them in the deep end, would you? Start by placing them in a sheltered spot for just an hour or two each day. Our favourite spot is under the dappled shade of a small tree, where they're protected from both harsh sun and strong winds.

Timing is absolutely crucial. Here in Lincolnshire, we wait until all risk of frost has passed - usually late May - before even thinking about moving the ferns outside. Even then, we keep a watchful eye on the weather forecast. Those tender indoor varieties can be proper divas about sudden temperature changes!

We've found the most success with a gradual approach over two weeks:

- First week: 2-3 hours outside in a sheltered spot

- Second week: Gradually increase time outdoors
- Final move: Choose a cloudy, calm day for the permanent transition

Do keep in mind that not all indoor ferns are suitable for outdoor living. Our Boston ferns absolutely thrive in the summer garden, whilst our more delicate Maidenhair ferns prefer to stay indoors year-round. Rather like people, really - some love camping, others prefer their home comforts!

Growing Ferns in Different Garden Spaces

"There are no medium-sized trees in the deep forest. There are only the towering ones whose canopy spreads across the sky. Below, in the gloom, there's light for nothing but mosses and ferns." - Terry Pratchett, English author of fantasy novels

Over the years, we've grown ferns in every conceivable corner of our garden - from shady nooks to woodland borders and even in some rather unexpected sunny spots. What fascinates us most is how these versatile plants can transform even the trickiest garden spaces into something rather magical.

Our first proper success with garden ferns came quite by accident. A rather neglected corner behind our shed, where nothing else would grow, turned out to be an absolute paradise for a collection of hardy ferns. The Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina) settled in particularly well, sending up the gorgeous fresh green fronds each spring.

For those blessed with proper woodland gardens, you're really spoilt for choice. The native Hart's Tongue Fern (Asplenium scolopendrium) makes a splendid evergreen ground cover, whilst the Soft Shield Fern (Polystichum setiferum) adds the most wonderful texture with its delicate, feathery fronds.

Surprisingly, some ferns are quite happy in sunny spots too - though do mind they have sufficient moisture at their roots. The Royal Fern (Osmunda regalis) grows rather magnificently in our bog garden, reaching rather impressive heights by mid-summer. Rather like a proper monarch holding court over the smaller plants!

Here's what we've learned about placing ferns in different garden settings:

Shady Borders

Plant in groups of three or five for natural-looking drifts
Mix with spring bulbs for early season interest
Layer different heights for a proper woodland feel

North-Facing Walls

Perfect for wall ferns like Polypodium vulgare
Plant in well-prepared pockets of soil
Brilliant for adding year-round structure

Damp Areas

Royal Ferns absolutely thrive here
Mix with hostas for contrasting leaf shapes
Keep soil consistently moist but not waterlogged

The secret to success, we've found, is matching the right fern to the right spot. Rather like arranging guests at a dinner party - get the seating plan right and everything flows beautifully! Some of our hardiest specimens have even survived that dreadful wet winter we had last year, though we did lose a few of the more delicate varieties to root rot.

Mind you, even the most challenging garden spaces can host ferns if you're clever about soil preparation. A good mix of leaf mould and organic matter works wonders.

Conclusion

Looking back at our journey with ferns, we are rather amazed at how these remarkable plants have not only survived millions of years but continue to thrive everywhere from dense rainforests to our urban windowsills. Whether you fancy a delicate Boston fern for your bathroom or a hardy Japanese-painted fern for the garden, success really comes down to understanding their basic needs.

Mind you, we did kill quite a few ferns before getting it right! The secret, we've discovered, is rather like making a proper cup of tea - you need just the right conditions. Most ferns are happiest with consistent moisture, gentle light, and protection from temperature extremes. Whilst they might seem a bit particular at first, these ancient beauties become surprisingly easy-going once settled in their sweet spot.

For those just starting out, we always suggest beginning with friendly varieties like the bird's nest fern or button fern. They're proper forgiving sorts, perfect for building your confidence before tackling more demanding specimens. Before you know it, you might find yourself creating entire fern gardens, each variety adding its own special character to your space.

The wonderful thing about ferns is their versatility - they're properly adaptable souls. Whether tucked into a cosy indoor corner or creating a lush woodland feel in the garden, they bring a touch of prehistoric magic wherever they grow. So go on, give these ancient beauties a try - they might just surprise you with how rewarding they can be to grow!

Frequently Asked Questions about Ferns

What are the different species of ferns I can grow at home?

Ferns come in a vast range of species, each with unique characteristics. Some popular indoor and garden-friendly species include the Boston fern (Nephrolepis exaltata), the holly fern (Cyrtomium falcatum), and the delicate Maidenhair fern (Adiantum). If you're looking for more exotic varieties, water ferns like Azolla and Salvinia float on water, making them a great addition to ponds or water gardens.

How do ferns contribute to life through plants?

Ferns play a vital role in ecosystems by improving air quality, preventing soil erosion, and providing shelter for various wildlife. Their ability to thrive in diverse environments, from rainforests to dry soil conditions, demonstrates their resilience and contribution to biodiversity. Many fern species also help maintain soil health by enriching it with organic matter as they shed their fronds.

Can ferns survive in dry soil conditions?

Most ferns prefer moist, well-draining soil, but certain species can tolerate dry conditions better than others. Holly ferns (Cyrtomium falcatum) and some deciduous types like the Western Sword Fern (Polystichum munitum) are known for their ability to withstand drier periods. However, providing occasional deep watering and adding mulch can help retain soil moisture.

At what stage does a fern become a mature plant?

A fern is considered mature once it has developed a full set of fronds and begins producing spores. Depending on the species, this can take anywhere from a few months to a few years. Mature ferns also tend to have deep roots, which help them establish themselves in their environment and make them more resilient to changing conditions.

Are there deciduous types of ferns?

Yes, some ferns are deciduous, meaning they shed their fronds in colder months. Examples include the Ostrich fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris) and the Royal fern (Osmunda regalis). These ferns lose their foliage in autumn, only to regrow fresh fronds in spring, adding seasonal interest to gardens.

What are water ferns, and how do they grow?

Water ferns are a unique group of ferns that thrive in or near water. Examples include floating ferns like Azolla and Salvinia, which grow on water surfaces, and semi-aquatic ferns like Marsilea, which can grow in damp soil or submerged conditions. These ferns are excellent for adding greenery to ponds and wetland gardens.

How can I grow a holly fern in my garden?

Holly ferns (Cyrtomium falcatum) are excellent choices for shady, low-maintenance garden spots. They prefer well-draining but moist soil and tolerate drier conditions better than many other ferns. Their glossy, evergreen fronds make them particularly attractive for year-round foliage.

Are tender ferns difficult to grow?

Tender ferns, such as the Staghorn fern (Platycerium) and the delicate Maidenhair fern (Adiantum), require specific conditions to thrive. They often need high humidity, indirect light, and consistent moisture to flourish indoors. If grown outdoors, they should be protected from frost and strong winds.

Are any ferns edible?

Yes, certain ferns are edible, such as the young fiddleheads of the Ostrich fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris), which are often foraged in the wild. However, not all ferns are safe to eat, as some contain toxic compounds. Always research and ensure you're harvesting from a known edible fern before consuming.

What are the main families of ferns?

Ferns belong to several distinct fern families, including Polypodiaceae (true ferns), Pteridaceae (brake ferns), and Dryopteridaceae (wood ferns). Each family encompasses a wide variety of ferns adapted to different environments and growing conditions.

Do ferns produce flowers?

No, ferns do not produce flowers. Instead of blooming, they reproduce through spores found on the underside of their fronds. The term fern flower is often used metaphorically in folklore rather than referring to an actual bloom.

Can a fern ever be in bloom?

Ferns do not bloom like flowering plants. However, many ferns display fascinating reproductive structures, such as fertile leaf structures or spore-producing sori, which can appear as small dots or patches on the underside of their fronds.

What is a fertile leaf in a fern?

A fertile leaf is a frond that produces spores, which ferns use for reproduction. These leaves often look different from sterile fronds, sometimes being more elongated or having sori (spore clusters) on the underside.

How close to the soil surface should ferns be planted?

Ferns should generally be planted at the same depth they were growing in their nursery pots. The crown (where the fronds emerge) should sit at or just above the soil surface to prevent rot. Mulching around the base can help retain moisture and support healthy growth.

How long does a fern life cycle take?

The fern life cycle consists of two distinct phases: the sporophyte (mature fern plant) and the gametophyte (tiny, heart-shaped plant that produces gametes). Depending on the species, this cycle can take a few months to a year to complete.

Do ferns have deep roots?

Most ferns have shallow, fibrous root systems rather than deep roots. However, some larger species, like tree ferns, develop extensive root systems to support their height and growth.

What are some beautiful foliage plants that pair well with ferns?

Ferns look stunning when paired with other beautiful foliage plants such as hostas, heucheras, and shade-loving ground covers like creeping Jenny (Lysimachia nummularia). Their contrasting textures create a lush, woodland-like effect.

Can I grow a cluster of ferns in one spot?

Absolutely! Planting a cluster of ferns together can create a lush, naturalistic look. Mixing different species with varying frond shapes and colours enhances visual interest, especially in shaded garden areas.

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