Sporting lacy, elegant, textured fronds, the ladyfernis sure to make a statement wherever you plant it.
This plant has fronds that are a vibrant green throughout the summer and turn golden-yellow after the first frost.
Lady fern stalks can be green, red, or purple.
These support a multitude of tiny leaflets, which gives the lady fern its feathery, lacy appearance.
These plants do best in shady areas with consistent watering.
Read on for our care guide.
Shade to partial sun is best.
Be sure to keep them out of harsh midday and afternoon sunshine.
Theses plants appreciate sandy, humus soil because of its ability to drain well.
Water
Consistent watering is important for lady fern plants.
If these ferns dry out, they become brown and wilted.
However, despite their dismal looks, the lady fern springs back very well.
With some watering and care, these plants will become lush again.
Aim to keep the soil evenly moist, but not soggy.
This is most important during the plant’s first year.
Once established, the lady fern is quite hardy and can tolerate periods without water.
They are quite hardy when it comes to temperature, growing in zones 3 to 6.
For warmer climates, zones 7-9, chose the Southern Lady Fern (Athyrium filix-femina var.
asplenioides)which will withstand the high temperatures.
Fertilizer
Compost is the perfectsoil amendmentfor lady ferns.
This provides the richness and nutrients that the lady fern needs.
Adding other organic material, such as leaves, is another great option.
Slow-release fertilizer can also be used, but be careful with other fertilizers.
The lady fern is easily harmed by too much fertilizer.
Sticking to compost or slow-release fertilizer is safest.
Give this once in the spring to encourage new growth.
Pruning
After the first frost, the foliage will die off.
At this time, trim away the foliage and dispose of it.
New, fresh foliage will appear in the spring.
Besides this, the lady fern does not require pruning or other maintenance.
Propagating Lady Fern
The best way to propagate your lady fern is through the division ofrhizomes.
This can easily be done in the spring.
They do not generally do well with dry, indoor air.
Though they can get large, lady ferns prefer small pots.
Once the rhizomes no longer fit in the pot, simply divide them.
It may also be beneficial to use a fern-specific potting medium.
Overwintering
Lady fern can tolerate temperatures down to -15 degrees Fahrenheit.
Overwatering can eventually lead to root rot, killing the plant.
If you start noticing yellowing leaves, dial back watering until the plant recovers.
Dropping Leaves
Lady fern thrives in a shady, humid climate.
Low humidity levels can cause the plant to drop leaves.
If grown indoors, increase the humidity level if you notice leaf drop.
When planting, take a stab at mimic these environments.
Yes, lady fern plants will die off come frost but they will return every spring.
