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Fern

B3B3 Posts: 25,239
in Plants
My fern is looking good at the moment.


However, there's seeds under all the leaves so it will soon look grotty.
Would root pruning or dividing stop it from seeding next year?

Supplementary dumb question:
How does it seed if there's no flowers? I know. Dumb question.
In London. Keen but lazy.
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Posts

  • Hostafan1Hostafan1 Posts: 34,053
    they're not seeds, they're spores, like mushrooms have
    Devon.
  • Papi JoPapi Jo Posts: 3,860
    That fern looks splendid. Any chance you know its name? Re fern reproduction this site might help: https://www.thoughtco.com/fern-life-cycle-4158558
    You are invited to a virtual visit of my garden (in English or in French).
  • B3B3 Posts: 25,239
    edited June 2019
    Thanks @Papi Jo. I've had it for a VERY long time. I don't think it was any special variety though. It's been root pruned and repotted over the years.
    Had a glance at the link. It looks really interesting. Will read it properly later. Thanks . It looks like one I'll be able to understand😊
    In London. Keen but lazy.
  • B3B3 Posts: 25,239
    @Hostafan1 that makes sense. I will investigate spores and PJs link. They're fascinating plants. Dare I say almost as fascinating as hostas?
    In London. Keen but lazy.
  • Hostafan1Hostafan1 Posts: 34,053
    B3 said:
    @Hostafan1 that makes sense. I will investigate spores and PJs link. They're fascinating plants. Dare I say almost as fascinating as hostas?
    you can say it, but you'd be wrong, lol. 
    Devon.
  • B3B3 Posts: 25,239
    I can't comment until I've studied the link
    In London. Keen but lazy.
  • RubytooRubytoo Posts: 1,323
    Heucheras are the new Hostas..... :)
    Running like ruddy hell and hiding behind the  sofa...

    Is your fern deciduous?
    Have a look at Athyrium felix femina.
    Or Dryopteris filix mas.

    It is a lovely specimen, you must care for it well, it looks great.
    Only have to forget for a little bit when they are in pots and they can get browned easily.

  • B3B3 Posts: 25,239
    Yes. I cut the old leaves off in the spring when  I see the new leaves are ready to unfurl. I top dress as much as I can plus a little slow release fertiliser. Keep it in light shade and water uwt now and again..
    Dryopteris sounds vaguely familiar. 
    In London. Keen but lazy.
  • B3B3 Posts: 25,239
    Had a Google. Athyrium doesn't look quite right but frankly, i havent a clue😊
    In London. Keen but lazy.
  • Paul B3Paul B3 Posts: 3,063
    Dryopteris filix-mas  ; Male fern .
    Very common in UK woodlands and also naturalised in my garden
    Reliable and beautiful !
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