It’s finally that time of year again! The snow is melting the birds are singing and the bees are buzzing. The flowers are blooming and the trees are beginning to sprout their leaves. It’s time to get outside and enjoy the warmer weather… and start planting!
If you’re planning on adding some ostrich ferns to your garden this year now is the time to start getting them ready. Here’s everything you need to know about when to plant ostrich fern bulbs:
Ostrich ferns are a type of fern that grows in North America Europe and Asia. The plant gets its name from the shape of its leaves which resemble the feathers of an ostrich.
Ostrich ferns are a popular choice for gardens because they are low-maintenance and easy to care for. They also have a beautiful delicate appearance that can add a touch of elegance to any garden.
Bulbs should be planted in the spring as soon as the ground is thawed and the weather is warm enough. If you live in an area with a short growing season you can start the bulbs indoors in pots and then transplant them outside once the weather is warm enough.
When choosing a spot to plant your ostrich ferns make sure to choose an area that gets partial to full shade. These plants do not do well in direct sunlight and they will scorch if they are in full sun all day.
Ostrich ferns grow best in moist well-drained soils. If your soil is on the dry side you can add some organic matter to help hold in moisture.
To plant the bulbs dig a hole that is twice as deep as the height of the bulb. Place the bulb in the hole and then backfill with soil. Firm the soil down around the bulb so that it is snug.
Water the soil around the bulb well and then keep the soil moist throughout the growing season.
Once the ostrich ferns have sprouted and are about 6 inches tall you can fertilize them with a balanced fertilizer. Apply the fertilizer according to the package directions.
Ostrich ferns can grow to be quite large so you may need to give them some space to spread out. Each plant can grow to be up to 6 feet tall and 4 feet wide.
If you want to keep your ostrich ferns looking their best you can divide them every 3-4 years. This will help to promote new growth and keep the plants from getting too big for their space.
Now that you know when to plant ostrich fern bulbs you can get started on adding these beautiful plants to your garden!
How often should you water ostrich fern bulbs?
Once a week.
How many hours of sunlight does an ostrich fern need?
It prefers shady areas with indirect sunlight.
What kind of soil does an ostrich fern need?
It needs a soil that is rich in organic matter and drains well.
When is the best time to plant ostrich fern bulbs?
In the spring.
How deep should you plant ostrich fern bulbs?
3-4 inches deep.
How far apart should you plant ostrich fern bulbs?
6-12 inches apart.
What is the best way to fertilize ostrich ferns?
With compost or manure.
What pests or diseases are common with ostrich ferns?
Aphids slugs and snails.
What is the expected lifespan of an ostrich fern?
20-30 years.
What is the average height of an ostrich fern?
3-6 feet.
Does an ostrich fern need to be pruned?
No it does not.
What is the best way to propagate an ostrich fern?
By division.
What is the hardiness zone for an ostrich fern?
4-9.
What is the scientific name for an ostrich fern?
Matteuccia struthiopteris.
What is the common name for an ostrich fern?
Fiddleheads.
