Golden rules for growing
■ Before planting, incorporate organic matter such as well-rotted compost and leafmould.
■ Keep well watered in the first year after planting. Water at the base to avoid rotting the fern’s crown.
■ Every spring, mulch around the base with leafmould or compost, taking care not to cover the plant.
■ Cut away dead fronds in spring.
■ For container planting use a mix of 3:1:1 parts multipurpose compost, John Innes No3 and gritty sand.
■ A weak liquid seaweed feed is perfect for container-grown ferns.