Ferns For Ground Cover

Introduction to Ferns as Ground Cover Are you searching for an attractive and low-maintenance ground cover for your garden or landscape? Ferns could be the answer to your quest. Ferns are the perfect ground cover for those looking for a change from the traditional grass lawns or need to cover up difficult areas like the under canopy of trees. In this article, we will guide you on how to use ferns as ground cover, their benefits, and disadvantages, and how to care for them.

Benefits of Using Ferns as Ground Cover

Ferns are a great alternative to traditional ground covers for many reasons. Firstly, ferns offer an aesthetic appeal with their green fronds and unique texture. They add depth, color, and texture to any garden concept, complementing a variety of plants.

Disadvantages of Using Ferns as Ground Cover

Before jumping into using ferns as ground cover, it’s essential to acknowledge their downsides. Ferns take time to establish themselves and grow their root system, which means they won't grow as quickly as other ground covers like grass or thyme. Additionally, ferns prefer shade, so if placed in areas exposed to full sun, extra watering will be required. However, once established, ferns are hardy, low-maintenance plants that can provide consistent coverage throughout the year.

The Different Types of Ferns to Use as Ground Cover

With over 12,000 species of ferns to select, it can be challenging to choose which works best as ground cover. The most popular ferns used as ground cover include the Lady Fern, Christmas Fern, and Japanese Painted Fern. Each fern has its unique texture, colors, and sizes that give your garden a distinct personality.

Caring for Ferns as Ground Cover

Caring for ferns as ground cover is relatively easy, making it an ideal choice for individuals who want low maintenance plants. Ferns thrive in moist conditions, so regular watering is a must to ensure they don't dry up or die. Mulching not only retains the moisture in the soil but also helps to suppress the growth of weeds that can compete with ferns for nutrients and light. Additionally, regular pruning, fertilizing, and dividing ferns will keep them looking healthy and vibrant all year round.

Benefits of Using Ferns as Ground Cover

Ferns are more than just beautiful landscaping additions; they are beneficial for the soil and their surroundings. They offer an array of benefits, making them excellent options for ground cover.

1. Low Maintenance:
   Unlike commercial ground covers, ferns require less maintenance. Once established, they can thrive on their own and require minimal upkeep. Therefore, ferns save you money and time while still producing stunning natural ground cover.
2. Prevent Soil Erosion:
   One of the most significant benefits of using ferns as ground cover is that they are well-known for preventing soil erosion. They have extensive root systems that hold soil together firmly. The leaves of the ferns also tend to trap raindrops, which slows down and reduces the impact of rainwater on the soil, allowing it to absorb into the earth rather than spilling over the surface, carrying soil with it.
3. Improve Soil Quality:
   Ferns are ideal for improving soil quality. They can grow under trees and increase organic matter levels in the soil. Ferns are known for their ability to absorb and retain minerals and nutrients. After breaking down the dead plant material, ferns help add organic material to the soil.
4. Natural Pest Control:
   Ferns contain natural pest control agents. They are very good at repelling insects, bugs, and slugs, keeping them away from the rest of your garden. Ferns secrete tannins, which emit an unpleasant odor, making it difficult for pests to thrive around their area.
5. Shade Tolerant:
   Ferns are well-suited to shady areas and will thrive in areas that experience limited sunlight. This makes them perfect natural ground covers that work well under trees, arches, and other shaded areas.

Overall, ferns have many great benefits, making them perfect for natural ground cover. By utilizing ferns in your garden, you can reduce soil erosion, improve soil quality, save money and time, and repel pests.

Types of Ferns Suitable for Ground Cover

Ferns are excellent for ground cover, as they grow low to the ground and have spreading fronds that form a luscious carpet. When selecting ferns for ground cover, it is important to choose species that can thrive in the specific soil, light, and moisture conditions of the area.

1. Maidenhair Ferns: These ferns grow best in moist, shady areas, and have delicate, green fronds that spread out to cover the ground. They grow well in humus-rich soil and require regular watering.
2. Holly Ferns: These ferns have shiny, dark green fronds that look like holly leaves, hence their name. They can grow well in both sunny and shady areas, and require well-draining soil with consistent moisture.
3. Japanese Painted Ferns: These ferns have striking colors of blue, purple, and silver on their fronds, making them an attractive addition to any ground cover. They grow best in partial to full shade, and require moist, well-drained soil.
4. Deer Ferns: These ferns have unique fronds that resemble deer antlers, and can grow in both full sun and full shade. They prefer moist, well-draining soil, and can withstand drought conditions once established.
5. Bracken Ferns: These ferns have large, triangular fronds that can grow up to 3 feet long. They are adaptable to a range of soil and light conditions, but prefer well-draining soil and can tolerate some drought.

When planting ferns for ground cover, it is important to prep the soil by adding organic matter, such as compost or leaf mold. This helps to provide the necessary nutrients for the ferns to thrive. It is also advisable to water the ferns regularly, especially during the hot summer months. By selecting the right fern species and providing proper care, a lush and beautiful ground cover can be easily achieved.

How to Plant and Care for Ferns as Ground Cover

Ferns are excellent ground covers that can grow in shaded, moist, and partially sunny areas. Although they require little maintenance, there are a few things you need to do when planting and caring for ferns to ensure their proper growth and maintenance as ground cover. Here's how:

1. Choose the right spot: Ferns thrive in cool, shaded, and moist areas that mimic their natural forest habitat. Dig 8-10 inches deep and loosen the soil to allow proper drainage. If the soil is not well-drained, amend it with compost to make it fertile and light. Select the right species of ferns that can tolerate the soil moisture, pH, and light conditions in your location.
2. Plant your ferns: Plant ferns in early spring or fall when the weather is mild and moist. Dig a hole that is twice as wide as the diameter of the fern's root ball. Place the ferns in the hole and make sure the top of the root ball is at ground level. Fill the hole with soil, water the ferns, and add a layer of organic mulch around the plants to retain moisture. Space the ferns based on their mature size to avoid overcrowding.
3. Water and fertilize: Ferns require consistent moisture to grow well, especially during dry spells. Water the ferns deeply at least once a week, or more often if the soil is dry. The best time to water ferns is in the morning when the air is cool and the soil can absorb the water before evaporation occurs. Apply a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season to boost the ferns' growth and health. Avoid overfertilizing, as it can lead to the burning of the roots.
4. Cut back the old fronds: Ferns produce new fronds each growing season while the old fronds turn yellow or brown and die back. Remove the old fronds at the base of the plant to maintain a clean appearance and prevent diseases or pests from hiding in them. Use clean and sharp pruners to cut back the fronds without damaging the plant's crown or roots.
5. Protect the ferns from pests and diseases: Ferns are generally resistant to pests and diseases, but they can be attacked by slugs, snails, or scales in some cases. Check the ferns regularly for any signs of damage, and treat them with organic or chemical solutions if necessary. Ensure proper air circulation around the ferns to prevent fungal diseases, and remove any fallen leaves or debris from the plant base.

With the proper care and maintenance, ferns can grow into lush and green ground cover that enhances the beauty of your garden or landscape. Enjoy the charming texture and color of ferns, and appreciate their contribution to the natural ecosystem.

Design Ideas for Incorporating Ferns as Ground Cover

While ferns can add a lush, vibrant look to any garden, they are especially useful for filling in bare areas of soil to create a dense ground cover that can minimize weed growth. Here are some design ideas for incorporating ferns as ground cover:

1. Combining Ferns with Hostas:

   One way to create a visually appealing ground cover is by combining various types of ferns with hostas. The low-growing foliage of the hostas acts as a complementary background for the taller, more textured ferns. This combination works best for shaded areas and adds texture and depth to the landscape.

2. Integrating Ferns with Rocks:

   If you have a rocky terrain, adding ferns can soften the appearance of the landscape. Combining ferns with rocks creates an aesthetically pleasing ground cover that will also add texture to a plain area. The rocks also provide a natural barrier for the ferns, creating a contained and visually striking area.

3. Using Ferns as Filler:

   Ferns can make an excellent filler plant, particularly if there is space between bushes or taller plants. They help to create a cohesive ground cover that can blend different plant species and varieties together effortlessly. Using ferns as filler also serves as a natural weed deterrent and helps to preserve soil moisture.

4. Pairing Ferns with Wildflowers:

   For a natural, organic look, consider pairing ferns with wildflowers. Ferns provide an unmatched backdrop for colorful flowers and can soften their appearance. They work especially well in wooded areas where wildflowers and ferns can coexist in a natural setting.

5. Filling in Around Trees:

   Fern ground cover can be used to fill in bare spaces around trees, particularly in shaded areas where grass struggles to grow. Ferns thrive on the moisture found in tree canopies, so they are perfectly suited for the job. Not only do they create a visually appealing ground cover, but they also protect the tree roots from erosion and damage.

When designing a ground cover utilizing ferns, it's essential to select the right type of fern for the area's growing conditions. As well as which other species they will be paired with. A knowledgeable landscape designer or local nursery can provide advice on which type of fern will work best for your particular landscape.

Common Problems and Solutions for Ferns as Ground Cover

Ferns are delightful ground covers that can add a touch of elegance and charm to any garden. They are hardy and easy to care for, but sometimes, even the hardiest of plants can have problems. Here are some of the most common issues you may face when growing ferns as ground cover, and how to solve them.

1. Crowding and Overcrowding

   Ferns tend to spread and multiply quickly, which can lead to overcrowding and even suffocation. When ferns grow too close together, they compete for nutrients and water, and often cause stunted growth or even death. To prevent overcrowding, make sure to space your ferns properly and remove any that are overcrowding the area.

2. Drought Stress

   While ferns are hardy, they still require moisture to thrive. If your ferns are not receiving enough water, they will become stressed and may even die. Water your ferns regularly, especially during periods of drought or hot weather. You can also add a layer of mulch to retain moisture and keep the soil cool.

3. Low Light and Lack of Sun Exposure

   Ferns prefer shady or partially shady areas, but they still require some sunlight to grow and thrive. If your ferns are not receiving enough light, they may become weak and spindly. Ensure that your ferns are getting at least a few hours of sunlight every day or consider moving them to a brighter spot.

4. Pests and Diseases

   Ferns are generally hardy and resistant to pests and diseases, but they can still be affected by a few common culprits. Slugs, snails, and aphids love to munch on ferns, while diseases like root rot and fungal infections can cause wilting, yellowing, and even death. To protect your ferns, keep the area clean and free of debris, and use an organic insecticide or fungicide.

By addressing these common problems, your ferns will remain healthy and beautiful ground covers for years to come. Remember to give them the care and attention they need to thrive, and you'll be rewarded with a lush, green garden that's the envy of the neighborhood.