Although there are hundreds of varieties of ferns, most require the same type of care. Known for their long leaves, these non-flowering plants come in a huge range of sizes, shapes and shades of green. If you’re thinking about using a fern plant in your Florida garden, follow these tips to help it thrive.
Choose a Shady Space
Ferns do best in areas of partial shade. Too much sunlight can dry out their delicate leaves. The grow particularly well in areas with filtered light, like under trees or shrubs.
Test the Soil Quality
Before planting, assess the quality of your soil. If you have heavy clay, add compost before planting to make a healthier atmosphere for fern growth. Ferns do best in slightly acidic or neutral soils with pH levels ranging from 6.0 to 7.0.
Water Regularly
Ferns thrive in moist soil. Give them about one to two inches of water a week. If your soil is sandy, you will have to water more frequently than if your soil is dense clay.
Transplant Carefully
If you want to move your ferns from one area of your garden to another, wait until earlier spring. Remove the entire root clump from the soil, lifting from the root to avoid breaking fronds. Move the fern to the desired location and bury the shallow roots with a few inches of dirt. Water well, then apply mulch to help the soil retain moisture.
