Fantastic Ferns
Northern Maidenhair Fern. https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/northern-maidenhair-fern-adiantum-pedatum/
Ferns, with lacy, delicate leaves look dainty and fragile. But, in reality they are hardy, sturdy, reliable perennials that thrive with little care when planted in suitable locations. Their fascinating foliage adds textural interest to gardens. While many people have a fern or two as houseplants, they also make superb additions to the outdoor landscape.
Although often thought of as a deep shade plant, ferns do best when they get some sun. When observed in natural environments, they typically are not found in deep woods, but grow along forest edges or along paths, not under the heavy canopies.
Ferns leaves are called fronds and are made up of smaller leaflets called pinnae. The fronds have almost a feather-like appearance, giving them a dainty look. Ferns do not have seeds or flowers, but reproduce from dust-like spores. The spores originate from specialized structures called sporangia from either the underside of the fronds or from specialized fronds, depending on the species. The spore cases on the underside of the fronds look like dots and can be mistaken for insects or disease.
Propagating ferns by spores is a time consuming and difficult task. As a result, most gardeners rarely attempt it, and divide existing plants instead. There are two types of ferns that typically grow in southeast Wisconsin. Those that grow with creeping rhizomes can be cut into 2-3 inch sections with roots and shoots. Replant the sections at the original soil level.
Crown forming ferns can be divided when they have developed several crowns. Simply slice away the “baby” crown away from the original with a sharp knife making sure it contains sufficient roots and shoots for survival. Replant at the original soil level. Late summer or early fall is the ideal time to divide or move existing ferns.
Ferns prefer a good moisture retentive, but not soggy soil with plenty of organic material. An addition of leaf mold, compost, and wood mulch is helpful to growing ferns successfully and keeping the fibrous root system happy. They prefer moist soil, but will not tolerate being in standing water. If supplemental water is necessary, water deeply and thoroughly to encourage good root growth. Ferns do not require extra fertilization. The addition of organic matter should be sufficient for their needs.
Northern Maidenhair fern (Adiantum pedatum L.) is a deciduous perennial fern, native to Wisconsin, that makes a good addition to a shade garden. It spreads by rhizomes, grows to around two feet tall, and pairs nicely with hostas.
Ostrich fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris) is another native and is one of the most commonly planted ferns for this area. A bigger fern, it grows up to four feet tall with a one-foot spread. It also spreads by both rhizomes and spores. It will tolerate more sun than Maiden Hair fern, but should still avoid a hot afternoon sun. Because of its size and more extensive growth, this plant does well as a background plant in a larger area.
Lady fern (Athyrium felix-femina) is a smaller sized (1-2 feet tall), but still native, specimen that spreads by rhizomes. It does not spread as rapidly as Ostrich fern, but will produce a nice colony in a relatively short period of time. Their finely divided fronds give them a very soft appearance.
Happy Gardening.
Carol Shirk
Certified Master Gardening