Ferns

Ferns

James talks you through different types of ferns, as well as where to position them and how to make sure they thrive.

Lesson Summary

• Ferns usually grow in very high humidity environments.
• Epiphytic ferns are more tolerant of drying out, because of the thickness and waxy nature of the leaves.
• They have evolved to withstand lower levels of water.
• Epiphytic ferns can be attached to pieces of cork bark and hung on a wall.
• Asparagus fern is not a true fern and does not require high humidity.
• The Maidenhair fern cannot cope with drying out.
• A large container loses water at a much slower rate, so planting ferns together creates a humid microclimate in a potting mix that stays evenly moist.
• I recommend that 100% multi-purpose compost is used for potting, as compost holds the maximum amount of water.
• In order to successfully grow ferns the existing microclimate in a bathroom is perfect, as light is filtered and humidity is higher than in other rooms.

Equipment Used

• Wide low pot
• Sylva peat-free multi purpose compost (composted wood)

Plants Used

• Adiantum raddianum 'Maidenhair Fern'
• Asplenium antiquum 'Bird's Nest Fern'
• Humata tyermanii 'Hare's foot fern'
• Platycerium superbum 'Staghorn fern'
• Asparagus setaceus 'Asparagus fern'

Your Notes

Ferns love humidity. If you have any ferns already in your home consider planting a few of them together in a larger container.

Fern Care

Light

Bright but indirect light.

Water

Epiphytes can tolerate drought, due to the thicker and waxy nature of the leaves.