Items 1 to 27 of 27 total
Items 1 to 27 of 27 total
Ferns
Uses:
- Shade Gardens
- Woodland Areas
- Mass Planting
Features:
- Foliage Interest
- Low Maintenance
- Some Native to North America
Sunlight:
- Full Shade to Partial Shade
- North Side of Homes
- Under 4 Hours of Direct Sunlight
Growing Zones:
- 3-11
- What is My Zone?
Ferns are plants that are commonly grown in heavily shaded areas in combinations with other plants like hosta and coral bells. Plant these in the north side of homes or under trees to provide foliage interest most of the growing season. Ferns also make great houseplants!
Why Buy Ferns Online?
Ferns (Polypodiopsida or Polypodiophyta) are in a group of vascular plants (plants with xylem and phloem). The plants do not reproduce with seeds or flowers, they reproduce with spores. Commonly found in the tropics, ferns are found throughout the world in moist, forested and shaded areas. Ferns can grow in zones 3 to 10 depending on the variety.
The Best Way To Use Ferns
Most gardeners grow ferns underneath trees and on the north side of their houses in shaded areas. Most ferns cannot tolerate direct sunlight, especially during intense afternoon hours. As long as the area remains moist, there is not a whole lot of care involved for ferns.
Great for shaded areas
Cannot tolerate direct sunlight
Typically 2 to 3 feet tall
Growing zones 3 to 10
About Ferns
Genus
Azolla
Species
50+
Family
Pteridaceae
Common Names:
Bracken ferns
Native To:
Anywhere
Plant Type:
Perennials
Foliage Type:
Herbaceous
USDA Plant Hardiness Zone:
4-8
Flower Color:
"N/A"
Flower Bloom Time:
N/A
Growth Habit:
Spreading
Attracts:
Birds
Tolerates
N/A
Resists:
Pests and diseases
How To Use Ferns In The Garden
Ferns are ancient plants known for their feathery fronds and ability to thrive in low-light conditions. Their diverse forms, ranging from lace-like maidenhair to bold ostrich plumes, make them a popular choice for adding greenery to indoor and outdoor spaces. They are able to colonize poor soils with little care and avoid deer damage. Grow ferns to inject primal texture and year-round structure in low-maintenance plantings.
Hardy ferns are excellent for underplanting beneath trees or larger shrubs, providing a soft, green backdrop that complements flowering plants. Anchor shaded borders with statuesque cinnamon or royal ferns, whose vase-shaped silhouettes command attention without overwhelming companions. Interplant Japanese painted ferns’ silvered foliage with coral bells for chromatic contrast in containers or rockeries. In rain gardens, cluster moisture-loving species like ostrich fern near drainage zones, where their spreading habit stabilizes soil and softens water’s edge.
Ferns Care
Plant ferns in well-draining soil rich in organic matter to support root development. Water consistently to keep the soil moist but not overly wet. Provide indirect sunlight; direct exposure may scorch the fronds. Apply a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer monthly during the growing season to supply essential nutrients.
Regular pruning involves removing old or damaged fronds to promote new growth. Cut fronds to the ground after a hard freeze and add a layer of mulch to protect roots from freeze-thaw cycles. When growing ferns in containers, select pots with adequate drainage holes and use a suitable potting mix to prevent water accumulation. Maintain high humidity levels around the foliage when growing indoors.
Learn More About Ferns
Fern Companion Plants
Plant ferns with other shade loving perennials, annuals and shrubs that enjoy moist soil. Some of our favorite plants to grow with ferns are hostas, coral bells, astilbe, azaleas, hellebore, coleus or impatiens.
