Hay-Scented Fern - Dennstaedtia punctilobula
The hay-scented fern is popular among outdoor nature enthusiasts because it looks and feels like a carpet. Individuals shopping for fern plants that grow in large colonies should consider getting this gentle plant. Also, remember that it is easy to confuse them hay-scented ferns with New York ferns because the leaves share the same color and appearance.
An ideal place to grow the hay-scented fern
Gardening enthusiasts who love planting ferns and seeing them thrive should grow they are hay-scented ferns outdoors in the woodland garden. Indigenous to regions with a USDA climate zone rating between 3 and 8, this fern does well in forest floors, where it grows freely in the shade provided by taller plants. Yes, the hay-scented fern can naturally grow in an expansive area forming a bright green, luxurious carpet.
In addition to forest floors, this fern grows in rocky slopes, open fields, and meadows. Growing this friendly fern in your outdoor space will give you a natural deer repellent. Also, remember that the hay-scented fern grows in colonies, making them great for creating garden or landscape borders. You can also use this plant store to increase your garden's ground coverage or to naturalize it.
The Dennstaedtia punctiloba is a resilient and hardy fern. So, avoid planting it with weaker plants to mitigate the death of the weaker plants. Yes, the plant can grow to a maximum height of 60 cm. And crushing the hay-scented fern's leaves releases a fragrant fresh, mowed hay scent.
How to plant the hay-scented fern
You will not break a sweat when planting the Hay scented fern because, like most ferns, this plant is resilient and hardy. Moreover, they take a short time to establish themselves.
You don't have to worry about sunlight requirements when planting the hay-scented fern, and the plant thrives in the shade where it doesn't receive direct sunlight. Therefore, it will be best to plant hay-scented fern plants under taller trees.
These plants are not picky when it comes to soil. Nevertheless, selecting well-draining ground will help your hay-scented fern grow healthy, vibrant-looking, and attractive foliage. Likewise, you don't need to feed your fern since it can survive on the soil's nutrients. However, opting to provide your fern during the onset of growing seasons will guarantee healthy growth all year round. While still on feeds, always opt for compost or organic fertilizer if you cannot find water-soluble feeds.
Are you thinking of replanting your hay-scented fern? If so, look for mature plants that have started developing rhizomes. Now, use a sharp blade or pruning scissor to separate the healthy rhizomes from the main plant before planting the rhizomes in a moist environment where new fruits and shoots will develop.
Buy Hay Scented Fern online at Nance Plants.
HOW TO CARE FOR THE HAY-SCENTED FERN
Despite not being a succulent plant, the Hay scented fern is hardy as it is resilient. Therefore, you can enjoy hands-free plant maintenance. These plants do not need much attention as long as their roots are in a moist environment. It will be best to feed your hay-scented fern as soon as you realize the evergreen foliage takes on a pale appearance. Remember that fish emulsion fertilizer is ideal for pale hay-scented fern foliage.
FAQ
1. Are Hay scented ferns invasive?
A. The hay-scented fern (Dennstaedtia punctilobula) is considered invasive in some regions, particularly in parts of North America making them perfect for covering large areas.
2. Do Hay scented ferns smell like hay?
A. Yes, the hay-scented fern gets its name from the distinctive hay-like scent that is released when its fronds are crushed or disturbed.
You don't have to worry about pest infestations when planting or taking care of your Dennstaedtia punctiloba plants. The plant is pest resistant. Therefore, fighting spider mites, mealybugs, aphids, and common pest infestations will be the least of your worries during the plant's lifespan, which can stretch to over ten years.
Color:
Green
Ships As:
Root/Rhizome
Season:
Summer, Fall
Height:
1-3 Feet Tall
Zone:
3-8
Exposure:
Full to Partial Shade
Deer Resistant:
Yes
Native:
Yes
