Shield ferns do have a tendency to spread over time. One particular species of shield fern, known as the Southern shield fern (Thelypteris kunthii), is especially known for its clumping growth habit and ability to form a dense groundcover.
When planted in a suitable location with the right conditions, Southern shield fern can spread and fill in empty spaces, creating a lush and green carpet-like effect. This can be quite desirable for those looking to establish a low-maintenance groundcover that adds beauty and texture to their landscape.
However, it’s important to note that while the spreading nature of shield ferns can be beneficial, it may also require some maintenance and taming to keep it in bounds. Without proper care, shield ferns can potentially overtake other plants or encroach upon areas where they are not desired.
To manage the spreading of shield ferns, there are a few techniques that can be employed:
1. Regular division: Shield ferns can be divided every few years to control their spread. By carefully digging up clumps and separating them into smaller sections, you can create new plants or reduce the overall size of the ferns. This also helps rejuvenate the plants and promote healthier growth.
2. Edging or containment: Installing edging or barriers around the desired area can help contain the spread of shield ferns. This can be done using materials such as metal, plastic, or stone, creating a physical boundary that prevents the ferns from encroaching into unwanted areas.
3. Regular pruning: Pruning back the outer fronds of shield ferns can help keep them in check and prevent them from spreading too far. This can be done annually or as needed to maintain the desired size and shape of the ferns.
4. Monitoring and removal: Keeping a close eye on the growth of shield ferns is important to catch any unwanted spreading early on. If ferns start to encroach upon neighboring plants or areas, they can be carefully dug up and removed to prevent further spread.
It’s worth mentioning that the spreading tendency of shield ferns can also be influenced by environmental factors such as sunlight, soil conditions, and water availability. Providing the ferns with optimal conditions for growth, while still monitoring and managing their spread, can help strike a balance between their natural spreading habits and the desired landscape design.
In my personal experience, I have witnessed shield ferns spreading in a garden bed where they were initially planted as a small group. Over the years, they gradually expanded their presence, filling in the empty spaces and creating a beautiful green carpet. While this was visually appealing, it did require occasional division and pruning to prevent the ferns from overtaking other plants in the bed.
To summarize, shield ferns, including the Southern shield fern, do have a tendency to spread over time. Their clumping growth habit and ability to form a dense groundcover make them suitable for landscaping purposes. However, proper maintenance, including division, containment, pruning, and monitoring, is necessary to control their spread and maintain their desired appearance in the landscape.
