Lady Fern laying down on the job

Return to the Perennials Forum | Post a Follow-Up

clip this post email this post what is this?
see most clipped and recent clippings

Posted by teri2 7B TN (My Page) on

Thu, Aug 1, 13 at 11:57

My 3rd year, and very dense, Lady Fern has splayed out flat on the ground. She doesn't seem to mind being tied up though; looks rather nice, in fact. But is this normal? Has anyone else had this happen? And, is there any way to prevent it?

Follow-Up Postings:

RE: Lady Fern laying down on the job

clip this post email this post what is this?
see most clipped and recent clippings

Posted by aachenelf z5 Mpls, MN (My Page) on
Thu, Aug 1, 13 at 12:50

I dug out the last of my Lady Fern this year, but yes, they always did that for me come late summer. However, it also could have been due to lack of water since mine never got watered by me. You could also try removing the old foliage - the stuff that flops. Don't these continue to grow through the season? The new stuff should be upright.

Kevin

RE: Lady Fern laying down on the job

clip this post email this post what is this?
see most clipped and recent clippings

Posted by mxk3 z5b/6 MI (My Page) on
Sun, Aug 4, 13 at 15:34

Yes, that happens to mine every year. I solved the problem by shoring them up with half-hoops on the outside edge of the bed when the new growth is just starting, and that supports them through the season (the plants support each other on the other side of the bed and 'round the sides of the drift of ladies). I prefer to set the plant supports out early because that way the fronds nicely hide them, plus when I've put the hoops out after the fronds are fully out I've damaged them (they're quite delicate and break/mash easily).

Post a Follow-Up

Please Note: Only registered members are able to post messages to this forum.

If you are a member, please log in.

If you aren't yet a member, join now!

Return to the Perennials Forum

Information about Posting

You must be logged in to post a message. Once you are logged in, a posting window will appear at the bottom of the messages. If you are not a member, please register for an account.
Please review our Rules of Play before posting.
Posting is a two-step process. Once you have composed your message, you will be taken to the preview page. You will then have a chance to review your post, make changes and upload photos.
After posting your message, you may need to refresh the forum page in order to see it.
Before posting copyrighted material, please read about Copyright and Fair Use.
We have a strict no-advertising policy!
If you would like to practice posting or uploading photos, please visit our Test forum.
If you need assistance, please Contact Us and we will be happy to help.