Origin
Dryopteris ×slossoniae Wherry ex Lellinger is a hybrid fern species that originated from a cross between Dryopteris ludoviciana and Dryopteris celsa. It is believed that this hybrid fern originated naturally in the southeastern United States, specifically in the Appalachian Mountains, as the two parent species commonly grow in close proximity to each other.
Common Names
Dryopteris ×slossoniae Wherry ex Lellinger is commonly known as Sloss fern, named after the Sloss Furnaces National Historic Landmark in Birmingham, Alabama, where it was first discovered. It is also called the Southern Shield Fern.
Uses
Dryopteris ×slossoniae Wherry ex Lellinger is primarily grown for ornamental purposes. It is commonly planted in gardens and landscaping to add texture and interest to shaded areas. It is a popular choice for its tall, upright growth habit, dark green fronds, and attractive foliage. It is also used in container gardening and as a houseplant in areas where it cannot survive the winter.
General Appearance
Dryopteris ×slossoniae Wherry ex Lellinger is a deciduous fern species that grows up to 3 feet tall and 2 feet wide. It has an upright growth habit with dark green fronds that are twice-pinnate, meaning that they have multiple divisions and are arranged in a triangular shape. The fronds are leathery and can reach up to 18 inches long and 6 inches wide. The spores of Dryopteris ×slossoniae Wherry ex Lellinger are produced on the underside of the fronds and are often covered by a protective layer of tissue called the indusium. The plant prefers well-drained, moist soil and partial to full shade. It is hardy in USDA zones 5 to 8.
Light Requirements
The typical growth conditions for Dryopteris ×slossoniae require moderate to bright indirect light. It can tolerate some direct sunlight, but too much can scorch its fronds. As a result, it is best grown in partially shaded areas that receive about 2-4 hours of direct sunlight and shade for the remainder of the day. Placing it near east-facing windows or under tree canopies can provide the optimal lighting conditions for growth.
Temperature Requirements
Dryopteris ×slossoniae grows best in a temperature range of 60°F to 75°F (15°C to 24°C). It can tolerate temperatures as low as 50°F (10°C) but may become dormant during the winter if exposed to temperatures below this range. During the summer months, it may require additional humidity to thrive. The ideal humidity range for indoor growth is between 40-50%.
Soil Requirements
Dryopteris ×slossoniae thrives in well-draining soil that remains moist but not waterlogged. A soil blend of two parts potting soil, one part coarse sand or perlite, and one part peat moss can provide the best growing medium. In its natural habitat, it grows in rocky soil and roots on rocks and outcroppings. It can tolerate mildly acidic to slightly alkaline soil with a pH range of 5.0 to 7.5.
Cultivation Methods
Dryopteris ×slossoniae Wherry ex Lellinger, commonly known as Slosson's wood fern, grows best in well-draining, fertile soil with a pH range of 4.5-7.5. This plant prefers partial to full shade and moderate temperatures ranging from 60-75°F.
The best time to plant Dryopteris ×slossoniae is in the spring or fall. Dig a hole twice the size of the plant's root ball and amend the soil with organic matter. Place the fern in the hole and backfill the soil, ensuring that the root ball is level with the surrounding soil. Water thoroughly to settle the soil.
Watering Needs
Dryopteris ×slossoniae requires consistently moist soil, but not waterlogged. It's essential to water deeply when the top inch of soil feels dry, especially during hot and dry weather conditions. This fern needs at least 1 inch of water per week, either from rainfall or supplemental watering.
Fertilization
Slosson's wood fern does not require frequent fertilization but benefits from occasional applications of balanced, slow-release fertilizer in the spring and early summer. Avoid applying fertilizer during hot or dry weather to prevent fertilizer burn on the fern's sensitive roots. Follow the package's instructions on application rates and methods.
Pruning
Dryopteris ×slossoniae doesn't require extensive pruning, but you should remove any damaged, yellowing, or dead fronds throughout the growing season to encourage new growth. Pinching or cutting back the tips of the fern's fronds can also promote bushier growth. Use clean and sharp tools when pruning to prevent the spread of diseases.
Propagation of Dryopteris ×slossoniae Wherry ex Lellinger
Dryopteris ×slossoniae Wherry ex Lellinger, also known as Slosson's wood fern, is an impressive hybrid fern. It results from the cross-pollination between Dryopteris carthusiana (spinulose wood fern) and Dryopteris ludoviciana (southern wood fern). This hybrid fern is a deciduous perennial plant that requires shade and moist, well-drained soils to thrive. In this section, we will discuss the different methods of propagating Dryopteris ×slossoniae Wherry ex Lellinger.
Division
Division is one of the easiest and most common methods of propagating Dryopteris ×slossoniae Wherry ex Lellinger. You can divide the plant in early spring as soon as the new growth emerges or in fall. To do this, dig up the plant carefully and separate the clumps of ferns by pulling them apart using your hands or a knife. Make sure that each clump has a good set of roots and fronds. Replant the individual clumps in a location with moist soil and partial shade.
Spores
Another method of propagating Dryopteris ×slossoniae Wherry ex Lellinger is through spores. Collect the mature spores when the ferns produce the spores in mid-summer to fall. To do this, cut off the fronds and place them in a paper bag to allow the spores to dry and fall into the bag. Once you have collected the spores, prepare a mixture of peat moss and sand, and sprinkle the spores over it. Mist the mixture to maintain moisture, and keep it in a warm and shady location. In about three to four weeks, you will start to see small fern gametophytes growing. Transplant them to individual pots or a suitable garden location when they are big enough.
Rhizome Cuttings
Rhizome cuttings are another way you can propagate Dryopteris ×slossoniae Wherry ex Lellinger. To do this, cut off a section of the fern's rhizome (underground stem) with a sterile knife. Make sure that the cutting is at least three to four inches long and has leaves and roots. Plant the cutting in a pot filled with a mixture of peat moss and sand, and keep it moist and shaded until new growth emerges. After that, transplant the young fern in a suitable garden location with moist and well-drained soil.
Disease and Pest Management for Dryopteris ×slossoniae Wherry ex Lellinger
Dryopteris ×slossoniae Wherry ex Lellinger, commonly known as Slosson's wood fern, is a beautiful evergreen fern that is highly valued for its ornamental foliage. However, like any other plant, it is vulnerable to several diseases and pests that can damage or kill the plant. Therefore, it is important to know about the common diseases and pests that can affect this plant and how to manage them.
Diseases
1. Rust
One of the most common diseases that affect Dryopteris ×slossoniae is rust, caused by various species of rust fungi. The symptoms of rust disease include small yellow-orange powdery spots on the fronds, which eventually turn brown and cause wilting. The disease can spread quickly throughout the plant and cause serious damage if left untreated. To manage rust disease, remove and destroy infected fronds as soon as possible, and avoid overhead watering to prevent the spread of spores. Fungicides can also be used to control the disease, but they must be applied as per the manufacturer's instructions.
2. Crown Rot
Crown rot is a fungal disease that affects the base of the plant, causing the fronds to wilt and turn brown or yellow. The disease is generally caused by overwatering or poor drainage, which creates a favorable environment for the fungus to grow. To prevent crown rot, avoid overwatering and ensure that the soil is well-draining. Remove any infected parts of the plant and avoid planting new ferns in the same soil.
Pests
1. Slugs and Snails
Slugs and snails are common pests that can damage the fronds of Dryopteris ×slossoniae by eating holes in them. To manage these pests, handpick them from the plants, especially in the early morning or late evening when they are most active. Gardeners can also use barrier methods like copper tape or diatomaceous earth to keep slugs and snails away from the plants.
2. Scale Insects
Scale insects are small, oval-shaped pests that suck sap from the fronds of the fern, causing yellowing and wilting. They often appear as small bumps along the fronds' midrib. To manage these pests, prune and dispose of the infected fronds, and use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to control them. The insecticides must be applied as per the manufacturer's instructions.
In conclusion, Dryopteris ×slossoniae is a stunning fern that can be affected by several diseases and pests. Gardeners must monitor the plants carefully and take measures to manage any problems that arise. By following proper disease and pest management techniques, gardeners can ensure the health and beauty of their Dryopteris ×slossoniae ferns.
