What To Know
- Place it in the hole, ensuring the crown of the fern (where the fronds emerge) is level with the ground.
- Its fronds, resembling ostrich feathers, emerge in a vibrant green in spring, gradually turning a darker shade of green as the season progresses.
- Carefully dig up the fern and use a sharp knife or spade to divide the rhizomes into sections, each with a healthy crown and roots.
The ostrich fern, with its striking, feathery fronds that resemble the plumes of a majestic ostrich, adds a touch of wild elegance to any garden. This fern, scientifically known as *Matteuccia struthiopteris*, is a statement piece, creating a sense of drama and depth in your landscape. But knowing how to plant ostrich fern is essential to ensure its thriving and beauty.
Understanding the Ostrich Fern: A Glimpse into Its Nature
Before delving into the planting process, let’s understand the ostrich fern’s preferences and characteristics. This fern is a deciduous perennial, meaning it dies back in winter and emerges anew in spring. It prefers shady to partially shady conditions and well-drained, moist soil.
Ostrich ferns are naturalizers, readily spreading through underground rhizomes. This characteristic makes them ideal for creating a natural, woodland-like atmosphere in your garden. However, be mindful of their spreading nature, as they can become invasive if not managed.
Choosing the Right Spot for Your Ostrich Fern
Selecting the perfect location for your ostrich fern is crucial for its growth and health. Here’s what to consider:
- Sunlight: Ostrich ferns thrive in dappled shade or under the canopy of trees. Avoid planting them in full sun, as this can scorch their fronds.
- Soil: While they tolerate a range of soil types, they prefer moist, well-drained soil. If your soil is heavy clay, amend it with compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
- Space: Ostrich ferns can grow quite large, reaching heights of 4-6 feet. Allow ample space for them to spread, especially if you’re planting multiple ferns.
Planting Your Ostrich Fern: A Step-by-Step Guide
Once you’ve chosen the perfect spot, follow these steps for successful planting:
1. Prepare the Soil: Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball and just as deep. Loosen the soil at the bottom of the hole to improve drainage.
2. Position the Fern: Gently remove the fern from its container, being careful not to disturb the root ball. Place it in the hole, ensuring the crown of the fern (where the fronds emerge) is level with the ground.
3. Backfill and Water: Fill the hole around the root ball with the soil you removed. Gently firm the soil around the base of the fern. Water thoroughly to settle the soil and encourage root growth.
4. Mulch: Apply a layer of organic mulch, such as wood chips or shredded bark, around the base of the fern to retain moisture and suppress weeds.
Caring for Your Ostrich Fern: A Guide to Success
After planting, your ostrich fern needs a little TLC to flourish. Here’s how to ensure its continued beauty:
- Watering: Keep the soil consistently moist, especially during the first year after planting. Water deeply but less frequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
- Fertilizing: Fertilize your ostrich fern in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer. Avoid using fertilizers high in nitrogen, as this can promote excessive foliage growth at the expense of root development.
- Deadheading: Cut back the old fronds in late autumn or early winter. This helps prevent disease and allows new fronds to emerge more readily in spring.
The Beauty of Ostrich Ferns: A Visual Feast
The ostrich fern‘s beauty lies in its unique foliage. Its fronds, resembling ostrich feathers, emerge in a vibrant green in spring, gradually turning a darker shade of green as the season progresses. The fronds can reach a height of 4-6 feet, creating a stunning visual impact, especially when planted in groups.
Going Beyond the Basics: Propagating and Dividing Your Ostrich Fern
As your ostrich fern thrives, you can propagate it to expand your garden or share its beauty with others.
Propagation: Ostrich ferns can be propagated through division.
1. Choose the Right Time: The best time to divide ostrich ferns is in early spring, just as new fronds begin to emerge.
2. Divide the Fern: Carefully dig up the fern and use a sharp knife or spade to divide the rhizomes into sections, each with a healthy crown and roots.
3. Replant the Divisions: Plant the divisions in a prepared bed, ensuring that the crown is level with the ground. Water thoroughly.
Ostrich Fern: A Garden Addition for All Seasons
The ostrich fern’s beauty isn’t limited to its foliage. Its fronds create a natural, woodland atmosphere that adds a touch of wild elegance to your garden. They also provide a safe haven for beneficial insects and small animals.
A Final Word: Enjoying the Ostrich Fern’s Majesty
With the right care and understanding, your ostrich fern will become a treasured addition to your garden. Its striking foliage and naturalizing habit create a unique and captivating landscape element, bringing a touch of the wild to your outdoor space.
Common Questions and Answers
Q: How often should I water my ostrich fern?
A: Water your ostrich fern deeply but less frequently, allowing the top inch of soil to dry out between waterings.
Q: Can I plant ostrich ferns in full sun?
A: No, ostrich ferns prefer shady to partially shady conditions. Full sun can scorch their fronds.
Q: How do I know if my ostrich fern is getting enough water?
A: Check the soil moisture regularly. If the top inch of soil is dry, it’s time to water.
Q: Can I grow ostrich ferns in containers?
A: Yes, but you’ll need a large container with good drainage.
Q: What are some companion plants for ostrich ferns?
A: Ostrich ferns look great with hostas, ferns, and other shade-loving plants.
