Beautiful and Hardy Ferns You Should Plant This Fall

Fall is finally here, and it's time for gardeners to start preparing for the season. One of the best ways to add warmth and color to your garden during the fall months is by planting ferns. Ferns are beautiful, shade-loving plants that are perfect for cooler climates. In this blog post, we'll explore three types of ferns -Tassle Fern, Brilliance Autumn Fern and Japanese Painted Fern- and why you should consider planting them this fall.

Tassle Fern: The Tassle Fern is a popular choice for people who want to add texture and dimension to their garden. They have a unique, fuzzy appearance, and the fronds fall gracefully over their pot or garden bed. These ferns are very low maintenance, require little watering, and can thrive both indoors and outdoors. They are perfect for shady spots and can help bring life to a dull corner of your garden. 

Brilliance Autumn Fern: If you're looking for something that's not only beautiful but also hardy, then the Brilliance Autumn Fern is an ideal choice. These ferns have a beautiful copper hue, which becomes even more vibrant in the fall months. Brilliance Autumn Ferns can grow up to 2 feet in height and have a spread of up to 3 feet. They're perfect for planting along garden beds and are ideal for erosion control

Japanese Painted Fern: The Japanese Painted Fern is an elegant fern, that has garnered popularity in recent years. It has a distinctive metallic blue-grey color, which adds a unique touch to any garden. Japanese Painted Ferns are low aintenance and can adapt to a range of growing conditions. They are great for planting in containers if you don't have a garden bed, and add a charming touch to balconies and patios.

Planting Your Ferns: When it comes to planting ferns, it's important to choose a well-draining soil and a shaded area for your ferns. Additionally, it's essential to add a layer of organic matter to prevent any weeds from taking root. It's good to note that ferns also don't like being planted too deeply. Make sure to plant the fern so that the crown, which is where the stems meet the roots, is visible.

Maintaining Ferns: Ferns are generally low maintenance plants, but a little care can go a long way in keeping them healthy and vibrant. Regular watering is crucial, but avoid water-logging the soil as it can lead to root rot. The frequency of watering might need to be adjusted based on the season and the climate of your region. Ferns also prefer high humidity, so you might want to mist them occasionally, especially in drier environments. Every few months, use a slow-release fertilizer to provide essential nutrients for your ferns. Prune any brown or dying fronds to keep the plant looking its best and to encourage new growth. Finally, remember to keep your ferns in shaded areas as they can scorch under direct sunlight.

Division and transplanting of ferns: When it starts to get crowded in the pot, or a bigger space is needed, divide and transplant your ferns. To do this, carefully remove the root ball from the pot and then divide the plant using a sharp knife. Each divided piece should have at least three fronds for healthy growth. Once they are separated, replant them in new pots with fresh soil. Be sure to water them thoroughly after the transplant and place them in a shaded area for the first few weeks to help them adjust to their new environment.

Ferns are an easy-to-care-for option and can bring a lush, vibrant touch to any garden or home. Now is the best time of year to get them planted before the colder months set in, so why not add some of these beautiful and hardy plants to your landscape? With a little attention and care, you can enjoy these delightful plants for years to come. So don't wait any longer - try planting ferns this fall and reap the rewards!