Hay-scented ferns do indeed spread. In fact, they are known for their aggressive spreading habit, thanks to their rhizomes. These rhizomes allow the fern to send out new shoots and roots, enabling it to form dense colonies over time. If you’re looking to add some hay-scented ferns to your garden or landscape, it’s important to be aware of their spreading nature and plan accordingly.
When planting hay-scented ferns, it’s best to do so in early spring. This gives them a chance to establish their roots before the warmer months arrive. As for spacing, it’s recommended to plant multiple ferns about 18 inches apart. This allows each plant to have enough room to grow and spread without overcrowding each other. By giving them sufficient space, you can also prevent competition for resources such as sunlight and nutrients.
After planting, it’s crucial to water the ferns well. This helps to settle the soil and ensure that the roots make good contact with the surrounding earth. During the first growing season, it’s advisable to continue watering the ferns on a weekly basis. This will provide them with the moisture they need to establish themselves and encourage healthy growth.
It’s worth noting that the spreading habit of hay-scented ferns can be both a blessing and a curse, depending on your perspective. On one hand, if you’re looking to fill in a large area or create a natural, woodland-like setting, the ferns’ ability to spread quickly can be highly desirable. They can help to cover bare ground and create a lush, green carpet of foliage.
On the other hand, if you have limited space or prefer a more controlled garden, the aggressive spreading of hay-scented ferns may pose a challenge. They can quickly take over an area, crowding out other plants and potentially becoming invasive. It’s important to monitor their growth and take appropriate measures to contain them if necessary.
One strategy to manage hay-scented ferns’ spread is to regularly divide and thin them out. Every few years, you can dig up the rhizomes and separate them into smaller clumps. This not only helps to control their spread but also provides an opportunity to propagate new ferns, which can be shared or used in other areas of your garden.
Hay-scented ferns are known for their aggressive spreading habit through rhizomes. When planting them, it’s important to give them adequate space and water them well. While their spreading nature can be advantageous for certain garden styles, it’s crucial to monitor and manage their growth to prevent them from becoming invasive. Regular division and thinning can help to control their spread and provide opportunities for propagation.
