Fern Plants

Most garden ferns are best propagated by division rather than from spores. In spring, lift an established clump and gently tease it apart into smaller sections, making sure each piece has healthy roots and shoots. Replant straight away and water well. Growing ferns from spores is possible but slow and fiddly, so division is the reliable, gardener friendly option.

The majority of common garden and house ferns are considered non toxic to dogs and cats. That said, a few plants often called ferns are not true ferns at all, such as asparagus fern, which can be harmful. If pets are prone to chewing plants, it is sensible to check the exact variety or position ferns out of reach.

A fern is a leafy plant that reproduces using spores rather than flowers or seeds. They are among the oldest plants on earth and are instantly recognisable by their elegant, often feathery fronds. Ferns thrive in damp, shady environments and are valued for their texture and lush greenery rather than colourful blooms.

Ferns are generally low maintenance once established. They prefer moist but well drained soil, shelter from strong winds, and protection from the harsh, drying sun. Keep the soil consistently damp, especially during dry spells, and add a mulch of leaf mould or compost each year to mimic woodland conditions.

Deciduous ferns should be cut back in late winter or early spring, just as new fronds begin to emerge. Simply remove the old, brown foliage to make way for fresh growth. Evergreen ferns do not need cutting back completely, but tired or damaged fronds can be tidied in spring.

Some ferns are evergreen and keep their foliage year round, while others are deciduous and die back over winter before reappearing in spring. Evergreen ferns are particularly useful for year round structure in shaded gardens, while deciduous types often have very fresh, bright new growth.

Most ferns prefer full or dappled shade and naturally thrive in woodland style conditions. Too much direct sun can scorch the fronds, especially in summer. A few varieties tolerate more light, but as a rule, ferns are happiest away from full sun.

Ferns grow well both in pots and in the ground. In borders, they establish strong root systems and require very little attention. In pots, they are ideal for patios, doorways, or shaded corners, as long as watering is kept up and the compost does not dry out.