Ferns are beautiful and lush plants that thrive in specific growing conditions. When it comes to growing ferns outside, the best location for them is in a woodland garden or an area that provides at least partial shade. This is because ferns naturally grow in the understory of forests, where they receive filtered sunlight through the canopy of trees.
In a woodland garden, the shade provided by trees creates the perfect environment for ferns to grow and flourish. The dappled sunlight that filters through the overhead branches provides just the right amount of light for ferns to thrive. The shade also helps to keep the soil cool and moist, which is essential for ferns as they prefer consistently moist soil.
If you don’t have a woodland garden, don’t worry! You can still grow ferns in a sunny garden, but you will need to provide them with some protection from the hot afternoon sun. One way to do this is by planting them in an area that receives morning sun and afternoon shade. This will help prevent the ferns from getting scorched by the intense heat of the sun.
Another option is to provide artificial shade for your ferns. This can be done by using shade cloth or by strategically placing them under the shade of larger plants or structures. By creating a shaded environment, you can mimic the conditions of a woodland garden and provide the ideal growing conditions for your ferns.
If you have a large maple or oak tree in your yard, you’re in luck! These trees provide excellent shade and create the perfect environment for ferns to thrive. You can plant your ferns at the base of the tree where they will benefit from the shade and the moist, rich soil that is often found under these trees.
In my own experience, I have found that ferns planted in a woodland garden or under the shade of a tree have grown beautifully. The filtered sunlight and cool, moist soil have allowed the ferns to spread and create a lush, green carpet. It’s truly a delight to see the delicate fronds unfurl and add a touch of elegance to the garden.
Ferns grow best outside in a woodland garden or an area that provides partial shade. If you have a sunny garden, you can still grow ferns by providing them with protection from the hot afternoon sun. Planting them under the shade of a large tree like a maple or oak is an excellent choice. Remember to keep the soil consistently moist to ensure optimal growth. With the right growing conditions, your ferns will thrive and add a touch of natural beauty to your outdoor space.
