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