Male Fern

Plant in shade or partial shade in humus-rich, moisture-retentive soil. The male fern is unusually tolerant of dry shade once established, making it invaluable beneath mature trees and along north-facing boundaries. Improve the planting area with generous amounts of leaf mould or garden compost. Water new plants regularly through their first summer. Mulch annually with leaf mould or composted bark to conserve moisture. Feed is rarely needed; the plant draws nutrients from decomposing organic matter in the soil. Space plants 60-80 cm apart for a naturalistic woodland planting. The male fern also grows well at the base of hedges and in the gaps between tree roots. It self-seeds gently in suitable conditions, with young ferns appearing in nearby crevices.

Cut all old fronds to the base in late February or early March before the new crosiers emerge. This tidies the plant and prevents the dead foliage from smothering new growth. In mild winters, some fronds remain green and can be left longer for structural interest.