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DID you know that there are about 12 000 species of ferns?

These phenomenal plants grow in diverse habitats across the globe. During the Carboniferous Period, also called the age of ferns, they formed a central part of the vegetation of the time.

Many of the ferns we know today have evolved from prehistoric plants that are believed to have been around before the dinosaurs. During the Victorian era potted ferns became very popular and elaborate greenhouses were built to house prize collections.

Ferns bring to the garden many of the same qualities and feelings they evoke in nature. They can be used to create quiet, secluded areas in the garden for rest or as large, vibrant focal points. Ferns can be grown all over South Africa provided that the right species are selected for prevailing conditions. Some varieties are more frost hardy than others, while some are able to tolerate more sun. Most varieties prefer dappled shade under trees, although some plants like the mother fern (Asplenium bulbiferum) or the bird's nest fern (Asplenium nidus) can tolerate deep shade.

Most fern varieties prefer a slightly acidic soil (pH of 5.5 to 6.5) but some varieties like the Maidenhair ferns (Adiantum spp) enjoy an alkaline soil (pH 7-8). To determine your soil?s pH it is best to have it tested. If hydrangeas and azaleas do well in the garden, most ferns will too.

Humidity is extremely important for ferns to thrive in the garden. Plant ferns in a warm but sheltered position, well protected from wind. If they are exposed to too much wind, the plant will lose moisture too quickly, often faster than they are able to take up from the soil. This will lead to a scorching of the leaves around the edges.

Before planting, work compost into the soil to increase the humus content for better soil structure and retention of moisture and nutrients.

After planting always add a thick mulch cover to help conserve moisture. Bark pieces, wood chips and compost are suitable, but remember that extra nitrogen must be included in your fertilisation programme to combat for the nitrogen used up during the decomposition process.

Ferns won't grow well in soil with poor nutrients.

Wonder Shake 'n Grow Fernfood (42) with microelements has been formulated to ensure the lush growth of fern and ivys.

To fertilise your ferns first remove the mulch layer.

Sprinkle the powder lightly onto the soil and water well after the application. Replace mulch after watering. Repeat once per month.

When watering ferns, don't drench the soil but rather keep it moist. Over-watering will prevent oxygen from getting down to the roots and may result in plant death.

An automated irrigation system is preferred for watering ferns. You can also increase the humidity significantly by regularly misting them with an automated irrigation system.

Ferns can be grown all over South Africa, provided that the right species are selected for prevailing conditions and they receive proper care.

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