To move fern plants, carefully dig them out with a sharp spade, preserving as much of the root ball and surrounding soil as possible.
Moving ferns successfully involves a few key steps. Because many ferns have shallow roots growing from rhizomes, you won't need to dig very deep. Here's a breakdown of the process:
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Preparation: Before you begin digging, choose the new location for your fern. Ensure the new spot has similar light and soil conditions to where it was previously growing. Most ferns prefer shady areas with moist, well-draining soil.
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Digging:
- Use a sharp spade to carefully dig around the fern.
- Aim to keep as much of the root ball intact as possible. This minimizes stress on the plant.
- Since ferns often grow via rhizomes with shallow roots, you usually don't need to dig very deep.
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Lifting and Transporting:
- Gently lift the fern from the ground, supporting the root ball with your hands or a trowel.
- Try to keep as much soil around the roots as possible. This will help it settle in to the new location.
- If transporting the fern a long distance, wrap the root ball in burlap or plastic to prevent it from drying out.
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Planting:
- Dig a hole in the new location that is slightly larger than the root ball.
- Place the fern in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with the surrounding soil.
- Backfill the hole with the original soil, or a mix of original soil and compost to improve drainage and nutrient content.
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Watering:
- Water the fern thoroughly after planting. This will help settle the soil and reduce transplant shock.
- Keep the soil consistently moist, but not waterlogged, for the first few weeks after transplanting.
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Care After Transplanting:
- Monitor the fern for signs of stress, such as wilting or yellowing leaves.
- Provide extra shade if the fern is exposed to too much sun.
- Avoid fertilizing the fern for the first few weeks after transplanting.
By following these steps, you can successfully move fern plants and help them thrive in their new location.
