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Moss, Ferns & Cryptogams

I know nothing about Ferns - can you help?

15 years ago

This is my first time on this forum and I'm hoping you can help. I know absolutely nothing about ferns. I'm looking to add some to my gardens on the north side of my house. Either side of my porch, under some windows. Currently have Hosta, and Astilbe there now with Lamium as ground cover. All grow very well, lots of moisture, soil is slightly acidic. One side gets morning sun for 3-4 hours and the other side gets late pm sun for about 2-3 hours the balance of the day is dappled. I've looked and looked but there are just too many beautiful ferns out there for a novice to make an informed decision. I *think* I would like two different types. One taller, maybe up to 4', more vase shaped in appearance and one more medium in height, draping.

Also, is there anything special I need to know about growing ferns. The only ferns I've ever tried to grow are those boxstore hang in the house type. I ALWAYS kill them.

Any advise, suggestions or help in any way is greatly appreciated. Thank you, Alexis

Comments (3)

Iris GW
15 years ago
Hi Alexis, what you need to get are hardy ferns. These are often ferns that are native to your area and naturally grow outside (the ones you bought from the store are not hardy to zone 5b).

The below link is a great resource, but you might have to do a lot of clicking! Here are a few to consider:

Northern or Western Maidenhair
Christmas Fern
Lady fern
Northern wood fern

There are many others. You might also look at the county by county plant lists on the Washington Native Plant Society's page.

Here is a link that might be useful: Hardy ferns
Iris GW
15 years ago
This other link may be of interest. I can't imagine this is an inclusive list.

Here is a link that might be useful: Ferns of Washington
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alexis717_df
Original Author
15 years ago
esh ga: Thank you so much for responding. Also thank you for the suggestions and the links. I will be researching all of these.

alexis

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