Ostrich Fern Care Must-Knows
Like most ferns, ostrich ferns prefer moist soil. It’s best to plant them in rich, organic soil that’s somewhat acidic. Keeping them evenly moist to almost wet yields lush growth. Avoid letting this fern dry out, which leads to browning and drying of the foliage. Dry soil also results in slower, smaller growth. Ostrich ferns prefer shady conditions. These ferns are tougher than most, though, and can tolerate a decent amount of sunlight as long as they do not dry out. The more sun they’re in, the more moisture they require. In warmer climates, any more than part sun can also lead to foliage burn and additional water requirements. In general, ostrich ferns prefer cooler climates and struggle in warm southern climates. In their ideal growing conditions, ostrich ferns can be aggressive spreaders. Keep this in mind when planting, as they can quickly fill a garden space and may outcompete less robust neighbors. Ostrich ferns spread via underground rhizomes and can be controlled by regular division to keep them in check. The best time to divide ostrich ferns is in early spring, just as the new growth is beginning to emerge.
Ostrich Fern Companion Plants
Rush
The curious corkscrew rush loves wet or boggy conditions. It makes a fascinating architectural accent in planters, beds, and moist borders. It’s technically leafless, with green cylindrical stems that are pointed at the tip. Plant rush alongside streams and ponds, though it will tolerate dryer conditions elsewhere. It’s excellent in container gardens.
Iris
Named for the Greek goddess of the rainbow, iris indeed comes in a rainbow of colors and in many heights. All have the classic, intricate flowers, which are constructed of three upright “standard” petals and three drooping “fall” petals, which are often different colors. The falls may be “bearded,” or not. Various cultivars bloom a second time in late summer. Some species prefer alkaline soil, while others prefer acidic.
Anemone
Anemones are lovely, delicate flowers that dance atop slender stems, giving them their poetic common name—windflower. Depending on the type, anemones bloom in spring, summer, and through fall with pretty, slightly cupped flowers in rose, pink, or white, rising over distinctive, deeply lobed foliage. Plants grow best in partial shade but tolerate full sun in Northern regions. If you’re lucky, they’ll be happy where they’re planted. In some cases, you may even need to frequently divide them to prevent them from from overtaking neighboring perennials.
