Spectacular Ferns Part II

10/24/08
By Pamela Nobles

Let me introduce the easiest of ferns to grow, the Asparagus Fern or some say Asparagus sprengeri. In my last article, I shared that one of the ferns will blossom, this is it! This is not a true fern, but belongs to the lily family and produces seeds rather than spores and one of the easiest ferns to grow whether in your outdoor beds or in one of your favorite containers in or outdoors. The fronds will sometimes reach lengths of 5 feet long that have little spines (thorns) under the foliage with blossoms giving way late in the summer to green berries then ultimately ripening to red in the fall. Fronds are light and airy that is sure to attract the eye of the beholder being drawn to these luxurious ferns. In my opinion, they are most beautiful in pedestal containers that certainly add texture to that special room of your home. Setting one in a bathroom on a wrought iron stand would be awesome given the fact that they thrive in high humidity.
When planted outdoors they can become backdrops to many other flowering plants, such as caladiums, coleus, impatiens, and many more. However, be ready for their invasive growth. Be sure to divide them, as they will outgrow that special container. Here is a suggestion when dividing them (which can be any time of the year). Plant them in a pot for a gift for the holidays wrapped in any type of fabric or in a basket that would suit that special friends home.
The Asparagus ferns not only attract birds, due to those red berries, but if you have pets, parts of the plants are poisonous if ingested.
For those of you that are looking for fillers for your arrangements, go and cut away as they will reproduce in no time. Give them bright light, watering once a week, maybe more in the summer season and watch them grow with fervor.
Till next time, Grace and Peace be multiplied to you and yours! Pamela

Do You Want A Spectacular Fern?

10/9/08
By Pamela Nobles

These luscious plants have graced our homes for many years. Ferns were quite the popular item in the most luxurious homes of the Victorian Era. I was simply awestruck as a young woman as I watched movies from that era where the homes were filled with ferns in atriums, conservatories, greenhouses and porches. Many were hanging from a beam in one of those breathtaking mansions, or you might see one sitting on a wooden pedestal or a concrete figurine. In my earlier years in Jacksonville, Florida, my mother was a member of the Garden Circle and many times would escort her to her friends homes that were simply breathtaking and the first thing I would notice was the landscaping with ferns outdoors and indoors.
Ferns are grown mainly for their grace and beauty of their fronds; however, most do not have flowers. I would have to say that one of the most popular is the Boston Fern. Memories of driving to my favorite garden center with my sister, Jacque was definitely the highlight of Spring that filled us with great anticipation to purchasing just the right fern for our porches. There are so many varieties for you to choose. Just to whet your appetite, here are the names of a few; Maidenhair Fern (Australian or American), Indian Holly fern, Mother Fern, Lady Fern, Lady in Red Fern, Ghost Fern, Painted Ferns, Tree Ferns, Wood Ferns, Pony Tail Fern, Sword Tooth Fern, Rabbits Foot Fern and even the Asparagus Fern.
The majority of ferns will thrive in shade or partial shade. In this region, we have just the right ingredients to grow ferns - lots of moisture and high humidity. To grow them indoors requires these two factors, however, many homes have air-conditioning systems, as well as heating that can rob them of needed conditions. If you want ferns to thrive indoors, you will have to choose those ferns that are conducive to the environment of the humidity and moisture that is so vital.
Next week I will continue in more depth on these illustrious plants. Feel free to contact me at 592-2522. Till next time, Grace and Peace be multiplied to you and yours. Pamela