We moved and brought a long-loved fern that my grandfather had planted about 50 years ago. New to the house, we planted it in a shade bed that seemed to be thriving.

When the heat wave came, we discovered that the area didn't receive ANY rainfall, even the few times that it poured. In other words, no water other than hose water. It didn't thrive!

I've read that I should move it in the spring. I'm worried that a totally dry winter will kill it. Should I water it during the winter, even though it wil be (I think) dormant?

I really, REALLY want to save this fern. It has a long family history, having come from an old family cabin that is long gone now. Any help is greatly appreciated.