Overview
Gymnocarpium dryopteris (L.) Newman var. pumilum (DC.) Boivin, commonly known as the oak fern, is a small and delicate fern species that belongs to the family Polypodiaceae. It is native to western and central Europe as well as North America.General Appearance
The oak fern typically grows up to a height of 20 to 40 cm, with a thin and wiry stem that is covered in brown scales at the base. It produces delicate fronds that are light green in color and have a triangular shape, with several lobes that give them a feathery appearance. The fronds emerge from a central rosette and are typically deciduous, meaning they die down in the winter months.Uses
While not commonly used in medicine or culinary practices, the oak fern is primarily used as an ornamental plant in shade gardens or woodland settings. It adds a delicate and graceful touch to garden landscapes and provides an excellent complement to larger-leaved plants.Common Names
Aside from its scientific name, the oak fern also goes by several other common names such as narrow-leaved oak fern, small oak fern, and (less commonly) wood fern.Light Requirements
Gymnocarpium dryopteris var. pumilum is a shade-loving plant and it thrives in partial to full shade environments. The plant tolerates low light and it can even survive in deep shade for a significant part of the day. Hot and intense sunlight can easily damage or kill the plant, so it should be protected from direct sun exposure.
Temperature Requirements
The ideal temperature range for Gymnocarpium dryopteris var. pumilum growth is 60-70°F (15.5-21°C). The plant can tolerate temperature fluctuations and can survive extreme cold conditions as long as it is well-insulated. Freezing temperatures during winter are not a problem for the plant because it goes dormant until spring arrives. However, prolonged exposure to high temperatures can harm the plant and even cause it to wilt.
Soil Requirements
Gymnocarpium dryopteris var. pumilum prefers well-draining soils that are rich in nutrients. The plant can grow in various soil types such as sandy, loamy or clay soil. However, the soil must be moist, but not water-logged, as the plant does not tolerate standing water. Adding organic matter such as compost, leaves or bark to the soil can be beneficial for the growth of the plant. The pH of the soil should be between 5.5 and 7.5, slightly acidic to neutral.
Cultivation Methods
Gymnocarpium dryopteris (L.) Newman var. pumilum (DC.) Boivin, commonly known as oak fern, is a deciduous fern species that grows well in shaded areas. The ideal soil type is well-drained, loamy soil with a slightly acidic pH range of 5.5 to 6.5. The plant thrives in cool and moist conditions, making it an ideal pick for woodland gardens, rock gardens, or shaded borders.
Watering Needs
The oak fern requires consistent moisture to grow well. The soil should be kept moist, but not soggy, throughout the growing period. During hot summer months, the fern may require more frequent watering to maintain the moist soil conditions. Overwatering should be avoided as it may lead to root rot and other fungal diseases.
Fertilization
Although it is not necessary, the oak fern can benefit from occasional fertilization. A slow-release fertilizer high in nitrogen can be applied to the fern's soil in spring, before the growing season begins. Over-fertilization can cause the plant to develop an abundance of foliage, leading to reduced growth and development.
Pruning
Pruning is only necessary when the oak fern is growing out of control or the fronds become damaged or diseased. In such cases, the affected section of the plant should be removed using a pair of sharp scissors or pruning shears. To maintain the desired shape of the plant, trim the fronds back to the desired length. If you are removing an entire frond, cut it at the base of the stem, just above the soil level. Pruning should be done during the plant's dormant period to avoid stunting its growth.
Propagation of Gymnocarpium Dryopteris var. Pumilum
Gymnocarpium Dryopteris var. Pumilum, commonly known as the oak fern, is a deciduous fern that can be propagated through spores or division.
Propagation through Spores
Propagation through spores is the most common method for propagating oak ferns. The spores can be collected from mature ferns and sown in a sterile medium, such as peat moss or a peat- perlite mix. The spores should be sowed on the surface of the medium, and the container should be kept covered, in a well-lit area with a temperature range from 60-70°F.
The spores will germinate within a few weeks, and the resulting seedlings can be transplanted into individual pots once they are large enough to handle. It is essential to keep the soil moist and maintain a high humidity level around the young plants.
Propagation through Division
The oak fern can also be propagated through division, which involves separating the mature plant into smaller pieces. This method is best done in early spring when the plant is just starting to grow and can be lifted from the ground without disturbing the roots too significantly.
Using a sharp knife or scissors, carefully separate the mature plant into sections, making sure each section has a portion of the root system and several fronds. The sections are then potted up and kept well moistened until the new plants become established.
Propagation through division ensures that the new plants will have the same characteristics as the parent plant, which is not always guaranteed when propagating through spores.
Conclusion
Propagation through spores and division are the two most effective methods of propagating oak ferns. By choosing the appropriate method, you can increase the number of plants in your garden or even start your own oak fern nursery.
Disease and Pest Management for Gymnocarpium dryopteris var. pumilum
Gymnocarpium dryopteris var. pumilum, commonly known as the oak fern, is a relatively low-maintenance plant that is resistant to most diseases and pests. However, there are a few issues to be aware of when caring for this plant.
Common Diseases
One of the most common diseases that affects Gymnocarpium dryopteris var. pumilum is rust. Rust appears as orange or reddish-brown spots on the leaves and can weaken the plant over time. It is spread by moisture, so avoiding overhead watering and ensuring good air circulation around the plant can help prevent rust from taking hold. If rust does develop, it can be treated with a fungicide spray.
Common Pests
While Gymnocarpium dryopteris var. pumilum is generally resistant to pests, the occasional insect infestation can occur. Some of the most common pests that may affect this plant include spider mites, slugs, and snails.
Spider mites can be identified by tiny webs on the leaves and a yellow, stippled appearance. They can be treated with a gentle insecticidal soap spray or by simply washing the plant with a mild soap and water solution.
Slugs and snails can be controlled by removing debris and dead leaves from around the plant, reducing moisture and providing less shady areas for them to hide. Additionally, copper tape can be placed around the base of the plant to act as a deterrent.
Overall, Gymnocarpium dryopteris var. pumilum is a hardy and easy-to-care-for plant that requires little intervention to maintain its health. However, by remaining aware of the potential diseases and pests that can affect it and taking appropriate steps to manage them, you can ensure that your oak fern remains healthy and vibrant for years to come.
