JOIN NOW LOG IN
iVillage GardenWeb iVillage GardenWeb THE INTERNET'S GARDEN & HOME COMMUNITY ADVERTISEMENT
Blogs Forums Photo Galleries Ask The Experts Tools & Directories        
Return to the Moss, Ferns & Cryptogams Forum | Post a Follow-Up

 o
Which fern for foundation planting ...

Posted by nancy0903 05/06 (My Page) on
Sun, May 11, 08 at 9:53

I am removing pachysandra from a bed which wraps along 2 sides of a cottage. I want to replace it with fern (I love the look of it). One side gets eastern sun for a good part of the day and needs about a foot of height (to cover cement foundation), the other side is north facing part shade and needs quite a bit more coverage (2 feet height). Soil is rich, well drained. The pachysandra has done relatively well. I like the idea of the more evergreen ferns for obvious reasons but recognize that I am asking alot. (the two sides can be different).Any ideas?
Thanks, Nancy


Follow-Up Postings:

 o
RE: Which fern for foundation planting ...

I'd put a giant chainfern (if it's hardy enough) on the northside. Woodwardia will grow over six feet tall. Very full, very jurassic looking fern.

Josh


 o
RE: Which fern for foundation planting ...

If you don't want it quite that tall you might try ostrich fern, cinnamon fern, or brake fern. Go to Fancy Fronds (no I don't work for them) for a great selection for your area.

One more thing. Foundations of homes often leach alkaline residue into the soil. You should test your soil. Many ferns need the soil neutral-to-acid and you might need to add organic matter to drop the ph of your soil a bit.

Lainey


 o
RE: Which fern for foundation planting ...

I just got an Alaskan Fern, too. My fronds are a little under two feet long. It likes shade and, being an Alaskan fern, is probably hardy!


 
 

 

 


Click here to learn more about in-text links on this page.



iVillage GardenWeb: The Internet's Garden & Home Community  
  iVillage Home & Garden Network