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Grow Deer Ferns in that Shady Garden Spot
Blechnum spicant
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The Deer fern (Blechnum spicant), although a common fern should find
its way into your shade garden. It resembles a miniature Sword fern but smaller
with rounded fronds. Deer ferns are native to Europe, Northeast Asia and Western
North America. They are now considered threatened in many parts of Europe.
Deer ferns are distinctive because they have two different types of fronds.
The fertile fronds are the taller of the two (up to 36"), and grow
out of the center of each clump. The fertile fronds dry out by autumn. The
sterile fronds are shorter (18") and thicker, surround the fertile
ones, and remain evergreen. The plant spread is about 36".
Deer ferns are perfect for the average garden.They are a very durable and
low maintainance plant which can be used in difficult situations such as
under cedars or in deep shade. They are drought tolerate but do best if
kept damp. They should be planted in a rich humus acid (pH 5.0-6.5) soil.
They prefer full shade but will grow in most light conditions except full
sun. Deer ferns are hardy to -20F (hardiness
zones 5-8)
Deer ferns may also be grown as a house plant in a cool environment.
They must be kept constantly and evenly moist. Feed monthly except in the
winter with an all purpose house plant food.
Native Americans regarded the Deer fern with much respect. This fern was used
for emergency food. The children were told to look for it if they were
lost, and eat the roots. The leaves can be eaten to prevent thirst. The
leaves can be boiled and the tea consumed as a general health aid and help
with a variety of ailments.
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