Ferns

Flowerless spore-producing perennials represented by more than 10,000 species worldwide, ranging from 70' tropical tree ferns to teensy plants sprouting from cracks in alpine rock. In Maine we enjoy lush fern displays all summer on the roadsides and in the woods. More and more people are using ferns as foundation plantings and in all kinds of shaded spots.

Ferns make wonderful low-maintenance foliage plants that thrive in moist woodsy humus-rich soil and lend a serene aura to a shady garden or landscape. Mulch if necessary to keep crowns from drying out.