Hay-scented ferns are indeed found in Pennsylvania. In fact, they are extremely common on the forest floors of the state. As a gardening and landscaping expert, I have come across hay-scented ferns in many woodland areas during my time in Pennsylvania.
These ferns thrive in specific conditions, preferring fertile, moist, and acidic soils. They tend to do well in areas with partial shade to full shade, making them ideal for growing in the understory of the forest. Hay-scented ferns are well-suited to the climate and soil conditions of Pennsylvania, which is why they are so abundant in this region.
I have often found hay-scented ferns in woodland areas, where they naturalize and help to tidy up the forest floor. They have a way of creating a lush and green carpet, adding a touch of elegance to the landscape. These ferns have a delicate and airy appearance, with finely divided fronds that give them a feathery texture.
One of the reasons why hay-scented ferns are so common in Pennsylvania is their ability to spread and colonize an area. They can rapidly fill in open spaces, forming dense colonies that dominate the forest understory. This can make them a bit challenging to control if you don’t want them to take over your garden or other planted areas.
In my experience, it’s best to let hay-scented ferns naturalize in woodland areas where they can thrive without becoming a nuisance. They are well-suited to this environment and can provide an attractive ground cover while also helping to prevent soil erosion. Plus, they don’t require much maintenance once established.
If you do decide to incorporate hay-scented ferns into your landscape, consider planting them in a shaded area with fertile and acidic soil. They can be a great addition to a woodland garden or a shady corner of your yard. Just keep in mind that they may spread and fill in the surrounding area, so it’s important to plan accordingly.
To summarize, hay-scented ferns are indeed found in Pennsylvania and are extremely common on the forest floors of the state. They prefer fertile, moist, and acidic soils in part shade to full shade. These ferns are best left to naturalize in woodland areas where they can tidy up the forest floor and create a lush undergrowth.
