ROCK GARDENS

Hardy Ferns for Rock Gardens 6

Propagation of ferns in rock gardens by Division. This operation is best carried out in spring, that is to say, in March or April, at which time the ferns are planted out. The roots should be cut apart with a sharp knife, and the small plants can then be planted out in the positions they are to occupy permanently. Propagation by Trailing Roots. This is the simplest of all the methods and is appropriate to such ferns as the Polypody. It consists in cutting off an inch or so of the tuberous root and potting it up. The root must, of course, have a frond sprouting from it. Propagation by Minute Plants on the Fronds. On Shield Ferns and some others small replicas of the parent plant appear from time to time on the fronds. If it is desired to increase the ferns, the frond bearing these little plants should be cut off and pegged down on to light, sandy, well-sieved, and smooth soil. The little plants will soon root, and as soon as this is accomplished they can be cut apart and potted-up. A close, moist atmosphere will encourage the rooting. The following list, although of necessity far from complete, gives an adequate selection of beautiful genera, species, and varieties. Do not, therefore, as is so often the case, fill your rock gardens with common species and neglect the more interesting, but equally hardy kinds. Remember, too, in planting, that the smaller-growing kinds must not be overcrowded by those of more vigorous growth.

hardy ferns in rock gardens next page...

rock gardens home page...