In a previous post from a few days ago, I mentioned walking back to check on the ferns I’m trying to get started on the woods’ edge behind our home. Overall, I think they are doing okay, but I’ve had mixed results this year, which leaves me a little anxious going into the winter. Two Cinnamon Ferns I sat out in the spring may both be dead; however, I wait until spring to make a final judgment. The fern I transplanted a couple of weeks ago from a pot in front of our house seems happy as a clam (first photo.) thus far.
It’s been a dry year except for a few significant rain events, so I have a long garden soaker hose among the ferns to water them easily. You may see it in these photos. I’ll remove it before the first freeze.
I covered the ferns last winter to protect them from the cold and frost, but I’ll leave them uncovered this winter. I’m not looking to create something that requires constant care. I’d like it to be a natural area, and I think they will be better established this year.
This winter marks two years since I first conceived this project. While I have enjoyed most parts of it, I sometimes think there isn’t much to show for two years, but nature moves at its own pace. 🤔
Yes, nature does move at its own pace. I am learning a lot from her. So, with patience I wonder what will it look like in 5 or 10 years when you will be grateful you began this project.
My first thought was – is that frog’s name “Monte” ? :-)
LOL! You know the frog hasn’t been given an official name yet, so if someone makes a request, it could happen! 😂
I hope I publish it and that we all comment on the “Hillside Fern Project Update, Nov 2034” post. I also hope it looks better than it does now. 😊
Appreciate the fern hill update! Don’t know if I mentioned it before, but I relocated a couple of ostrich ferns to a small berm on the side of our yard. You inspired me to create my own fern hill. :-) It’s a very early test because underneath a lot of spruce trees, it is a lot of trial and error to see what takes. I have some native sedges that took nicely this past season, hoping they also spread.
Wood Ferns, Holly Ferns, Autumn Ferns and Japanese Painted Ferns seem okay here; anything outside of that hasn’t been very successful. The soil on the hillside has a high level of clay, which might be a factor. It’s been all trial and error on my part thus far, as well. I’ve considered doing some colorful ground cover further up the hillside but haven’t decided yet. I hope your transplanted Ostrich Ferns do well for you.