FABULOUS FERNS

Look for a specialty potting mix for growing ferns in containers. Before planting in ground, incorporate pine bark chips and compost to improve drainage and fertility. Mound heavy soils. Mulch to retain moisture.

Place ferns in a position with bright, indirect light. When given too much shade, their leaves fade and become sparse. Conversely, too much direct sun can burn the foliage.

Take potted ferns to the sink and water until the mix is completely wet, then let them drain. Only water again when the top of the mix starts to dry out – they don’t like to be constantly soggy, especially in winter.

Ferns need no pruning, except for the removal of dead or dying fronds.

Only re-pot into fresh potting mix when the plant has completely filled the pot and looks crowded. Don’t be tempted to move it into a pot more than a size bigger, as your fern won’t appreciate a lonely life in a big pot of cold potting mix.

Ferns are relatively pest free, but they can get scale, mealy bugs and mites. They are sensitive, too, and horticultural oils and insecticides such as pyrethrum can burn their foliage. If pests become a problem, remove the worst affected leaves, rinse the remaining foliage with running water, then apply a soap spray according to the label.

Feed ferns often and in small amounts. For potted ferns, apply a controlled-release fertiliser, and supplement this with fortnightly doses of liquid fertiliser mixed at half strength. Give ferns in garden beds a monthly sprinkle of blood and bone or pelletised chicken manure.