Can Ferns Be Planted?

Ferns' origins go back as far as 300 million years.

Ferns are an ancient, non-flowering plant with types that have adapted to almost every growing condition. From the hot, low-light environments of the tropical rainforests to the cold forests of the world's temperate regions, rocky outcrops and open sunny fields, there is a type of fern that thrives in every setting. When planting ferns, the growing environment, the soil environment and the type of fern are important factors to consider.

Planting Ferns Indoors

Ferns are well suited for growing in indoor environments. Many tropical fern varieties can survive in low-light and high-heat conditions often found in homes and office buildings. When planting ferns in containers, the planting medium is critical for successful growing. It must have good drainage but also be able to hold moisture around the roots. Use a sterile soil-less mixture that is half peat moss and half a mixture of sand and perlite or sand and vermiculite.

Planting Ferns Outdoors

Many ferns will grow in deep shade where other plants tend to struggle, making them an ideal ground cover under landscape trees, in shrub beds or along shaded border areas. When purchasing ferns to plant in the landscape, ask about the light requirements for each variety as some require full sun or filtered shade to thrive.

Planting Tree Ferns

Tree ferns tend to grow in warm tropical and subtropical regions. Mature heights and growing conditions vary depending on the variety. Ask your local nursery for the best variety for the growing conditions in your area and planting location. Before planting a tree fern, spread a 2- to 4-inch layer of compost, decomposed leaves or manure over the area and work it into the soil. Dig the hole deep enough that the bottom third of the fern tree trunk can be planted below the soil line.

Epiphytic Ferns

Ferns with epiphytic roots cannot be planted in soil. Epiphytic fern varieties, like the Staghorn fern, have a root system that attaches to established trees or rocks. The roots absorb moisture and nutrients from the air without harming or robbing the the host tree of nutrients. Staghorn ferns and other epiphytic ferns are commonly grown on a piece of hanging bark or wood. The fern is attached to the surface with fishing line to start and as it matures, the roots grab the growing surface and the fern supports itself.

References

• University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension Services: Epiphytic Ferns
• The Canberra Times: How to Grow Tree Ferns Successfully
• University of Minnesota Extension SULIS: Ferns
• University of Georgia Cooperative Extension: Facts About the Fern Life Cycle