Question about transplanting ferns.

**Renee-2kids** · 09-23-2005, 01:14 AM

There is a walking trail by me that has a bunch of ferns growing a long it. I was going to transplant some to my flower garden next spring, but news is that they are extending the road and it will take over the trail. So I'm thinking of doing it now, before they are destroyed. I don't know exactly what kind they are. They also have been mowed this summer, so they are small, if that makes any difference.

Looks like we are in zone 7. This week it has been in the high 80's, so it's very warm. I'm just wondering if it is worth it to do it in the fall? It's very dry here this fall, no rain yet this month. I just don't want to waste watering them if there is no point to try.

TIA

**Darlene** · 09-23-2005, 11:49 AM

Ferns are so beautiful! Not sure how to answer your question but found this info online,hth.
http://www.bbg.org/gar2/topics/plant...s/ferns/4.html
http://pubs.caes.uga.edu/caespubs/pubcd/B737-w.htm

**forestdale** · 09-23-2005, 03:42 PM

Renee, ferns usually transplant fairly easily. To give them the best chance:

cut the ferns back so that only a little bit of green is left. This lessens transpiration through the leaves where they would lose a lot of moisture.
dig them up with as much of the roots attached as possible.
sit them in a bucket of cool water for about an hour while you prepare their new bed.
when looking for an area to transplant them too, make sure it's as close to the growing conditions they are coming from. For example, if they were growing in deep shade, transplant them to deep shade or if they had morning sun, give them morning sun in their new space.
dig a hole for them and add some compost or potting mix.
plant them in their new area and cover the area around the roots with a mulch of leaves or straw.
water well and keep them moist until you see new growth.

Good luck.

**Renee-2kids** · 09-23-2005, 04:46 PM

Thanks! I'll give it a try!

**jlxian** · 09-23-2005, 05:31 PM

Renee,
I've always had good luck transplanting the ferns I have in my yard. They are not wild ferns however, and I don't know if there might be a difference in hardiness.

I've always done my transplanting in the spring, but I think since you are in zone 7 you should be able to do it now if you keep them watered well until very cold weather sets in.

Good luck!