How to grow ferns ?

Scotland, United Kingdom

My mother is growing, or should I say, trying to grow a couple of ferns but not having much luck!
She informs me that she has an Athyrium Niponicum and the other is similar but called Burgundy Lace.
She has been trying to grow them for about two years now but feels they have taken the huff. I have seen these poor souls which are planted in two pots and just managing to exist in her kitchen but not doing much.
She would like to know if they should be planted in ordinary compost or pure peat earth.
If anyone has an answer to this I would be grateful as I am starting to feel sorry for them as well, hehe.
Thanks,
Bobby.

On plant Athyrium Niponicum

2 Feb, 2009

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Answers

Spritzhenry

These are deciduous ferns, Bobby, so they are probably struggling to stay above ground, so to speak - they need a period of dormancy. Not good house plants, to be honest!

2 Feb, 2009

Bobbybrown

Thanks for your advice on this Spritzhenry, have also been reading some of the related questions. Was just wondering that if she were to plant them in the garden, what type of soil would be best for them ?

Thanks,
Bobby.

2 Feb, 2009

Spritzhenry

They like neutral to acid soil, moist and fertile, with leaf mould dug in. They also like a shady, sheltered position. Hope this helps!

2 Feb, 2009

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