Foxtail Asparagus Fern

March 31, 2024 Post a Comment

Foxtail asparagus fern

Foxtail Fern vs Asparagus Fern: Description Foxtail ferns grow in tall clusters of large plumes with delicate leaves, while many other types of asparagus ferns grow lower to the ground. Depending on the season, foxtail ferns grow small white flowers that become red berries, while not all asparagus ferns do this.

Do foxtail ferns come back every year?

The Foxtail Fern Since this plant is a perennial, it can be expected to return year after year provided that your winter temperatures are appropriate. Believe it or not, foxtail ferns actually belong to the asparagus family, and technically, they are not ferns at all.

Do foxtail ferns spread?

The foxtail fern forms tubers the size of a man's thumb and, underground, they spread out far from the plant. The tuber derives nutrition from the soil, but it chokes out the surrounding plants. Its spread can be invasive: Just be forewarned about this fact if you wish to use these ferns in your yards and gardens.

Does asparagus fern like sun or shade?

Plant asparagus fern in full sun or light shade; plants grown in full sun are more compact and dense than those grown in shade. It does best in moist soils rich in organic matter but tolerates almost any conditions and is fairly drought tolerant once established.

Where is the best place to put an asparagus fern?

Asparagus ferns do best in bright but indirect light, out of direct sunshine. They need a minimum temperature of 13°C. Keep away from draughts and radiators. Asparagus setaceus in particular thrives in humidity, so a bright bathroom is the ideal place for it.

How long do foxtail ferns last?

Foxtail Fern will grow to be about 30 inches tall at maturity, with a spread of 4 feet. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for approximately 15 years. This plant does best in full sun to partial shade.

Can a foxtail fern stay outside in winter?

Foxtail Fern is winter hardy in USDA Zones 9-11. Plants can be grown outdoors year round as long as temperatures never dip below 20-25°F. Plants perform best in organically rich, consistently moist but well drained soils in part shade (bright indirect light or filtered sun).

How do you keep foxtail ferns over winter?

The foxtail fern grows outside in winter if you live in the USDA zones 9 to 11. But if you live in colder climates, we recommend growing them in containers to move indoors as it is not frost resistant. In zones 9 to 11, they will die back in winter, but the rootballs remain growing.

Do foxtail ferns like sun or shade?

The foxtail fern takes full sun to partial shade, but grows more densely in full sun. This plant likes well-draining, amended soil for optimum growth. The foxtail fern has an extensive root system with large tubers that can store water and food during periods of drought.

Should I cut back foxtail fern?

Foxtail ferns are low-maintenance plants and do not need much pruning in terms of controlling their growth. These foxtail plumes need pruning to support new and healthy growth. Trim off the old and dead leaves and stems to encourage new growth and maintain their health throughout the season.

Where should I plant my foxtail fern?

Foxtail fern prefers soft light and likes to be planted in areas with filtered shade. A little morning sun is fine, just be sure your plant receives protection in the bright, hot afternoon. Indoors, place foxtail fern in bright, indirect light. Too much strong light will burn the leaves.

How often do foxtail fern need to be watered?

Water & Humidity Because the taproot stores water, foxtail fern needs to be watered like a mild succulent. You should let the top three inches of the soil dry out before watering again, but no more. Depending on the climate, you'll likely water at least once a week.

How do I make my asparagus fern happy?

Asparagus ferns grow best in a humid environment, so regular misting or the use of a pebble tray can help keep the plant green and healthy. The asparagus fern does best in temperatures from 60–80 °F. In the spring and summer, fertilize your fern once a month with an all-purpose fertilizer diluted to half strength.

Will asparagus fern spread?

Asparagus fern spreads by bird-dispersed seeds and vegetatively by tubers, which sprout far from the main plant. Asparagus fern can be found spreading along roadsides and invading secondary forest systems. Colonies are readily formed which displace native vegetation and prevent native species from reestablishing.

Should I trim my asparagus fern?

Don't be too hasty cutting down the ferns If possible, it is best to remove the dormant, brown ferns in the late fall or early winter (mid-November to December). This helps control asparagus beetles that would otherwise overwinter in the ferns and damage the next year's spears.

What plants pair well with asparagus fern?

Asparagus Fern and Red Begonias These feathery, trailing asparagus ferns contrast beautifully with dark red begonias. Asparagus fern care is easy. These feathery, trailing asparagus ferns contrast beautifully with dark red begonias.

What to do with asparagus fern in winter?

How do I overwinter my outdoor asparagus ferns? If the temperature in your area is colder than 55°F in the winter, bring in the asparagus ferns in pots. Place them in bright light indoors and keep them away from drafts or heat. Water only to keep the soil moist—standing in water causes root rot.

What temperature is too cold for asparagus fern?

Growing Asparagus Fern Plants Outdoors They thrive in USDA hardiness zones 9-12. They don't do well in temperatures below 55 degrees Fahrenheit, so if it gets chilly, it may be best to bring asparagus ferns indoors.

Do foxtail ferns go dormant?

Foxtail ferns are pretty hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit, but obviously, they go dormant and will not grow at these low temperatures. Depending on how you winterize your outdoor ferns, they may recover after the cold months as their root balls continue to live on.

How do you make a foxtail fern bushy?

Prune it back. Cut back stems to keep this fern compact and bushy. Trim off old, faded fronds to make room for new growth and to keep the plant looking its best.