How to Grow Fern Plants

How to Grow Fern Plants

Picture courtesy of Den Linnehan

Family: Pteridophyta

Ferns are at home in shade, thriving lush and green where no sun-loving plant survives. That makes them pretty neat!

In forests, ferns grow unattended—meaning they need little or no attention. Perfect for backyards!

Home gardeners value ferns for easy growth and abundant varieties. They're attractive in shady or wooded backyard sections. Try them as edging along trees or mixed among rocks.

Ferns are non-flowering plants grown worldwide. Scientists believe they're among the oldest plants, dating back 350 million years. They've spread rhizome roots globally—only absent from deserts and poles.

Over thousands of species exist worldwide, about 300–400 in the U.S. Some grow as small as an inch (perfect for terrariums/houseplants); others reach 50–60 feet! Most have long lives and propagate by spores.

Did You Know? Some ferns are endangered. If collecting from woods, know how to identify them.

Important Note: Some ferns are poisonous. Unless you know your variety is safe, keep children and pets away.

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How to Grow Fern Plants

Ferns are slow-growing but long-lived. Most buy from garden stores or online.

Select partial to full shade. Ferns like soil rich in organic matter. If soil is poor, add lots of compost. They require consistently moist soil. After planting, water well.

Plants thrive for years with little attention. If soil is poor, apply organic compost and mulch occasionally. In dry periods, keep soil moist.

Most let plants grow naturally. Prune dead or damaged fronds (leaves).

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Propagation

Ferns produce spores (like mushrooms) on leaf undersides. Millions are produced, but few land in suitable spots. Ferns also spread via underground rhizomes.

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Insect and Disease

Not too common. If problems arise, treat early with insecticides or fungicides as appropriate.

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