Re: [SG] Maidenhair Fern
Michael D. Cook wrote:
>
> At 01:05 AM 1/30/99 -0400, you wrote:
> >
> >The one I haven't seen mentioned is Adiantum, Maidenhair fern, one
> >of my favorites.
>
> Can anyone tell me how to keep this plant alive? I have tried and tried -
> it always shrivels up in about two months. I have not had problems with
> other ferns, and grow types needing a wide range of conditions. My mother
> has Maidenhair ferns growing in heavy clay soil, with no supplemental
> watering, and moderate, dappled shade, but according to the books, the pH
> should be too high for them there. I have tried them in dappled shade,
> total (but light) shade, part sun, acid soil, neutral soil, moderate
> moisture, dry conditions, woodland conditions, ordinary garden...could a
> pest or disease be at fault? Also, how long does Malathion persist in the
> environment?
>
> Sheila Smith
> mikecook@pipeline.com
> Niles, MI USA, Z 5/6
Shila
I have made the comment many times, that for me , and I believe for most
gardeners, The true point of reference for plant management, is
understanding how that plant grows and thrives in it's native habitat.
I have spent many hours walking the woods in Western NY, and a lot of
time checking on the condtions where the Eastern Maidenhair Fern grows.
Most sites have the following "common" chariterstics. Just a little
early sun. A constantly moist location. A bank or cliff location.
Pockets of forest humus mixed with shale of other small stone. A soil
that is a little on the acid side. By duplicating these condtions, I
have managed to keep them alive in my garden for many years----That is
--until this hot dry summer--as they root almost on the surface, they
are subjest to rapid drying. Yes ,I didn't get there with the hose in
time -----and So I will try again this spring.
Ran
