Fern feature !

Ferns do not produce seeds, but they do produce spores on the underside of their leaves. To grow new ferns from your existing one, you can simply plant the spores. Carefully collect spores from a mature leaf frond by shaking the leaf over a piece of white paper. Sprinkle these spores on to moist potting soil in a glass jar. Cover the jar with clear plastic and keep it in a warm, lighted area. Wait until your ferns mature and grow (about 12 inches) to transplant them into your garden

• SOIL: Ferns prefer well drained sandy or humus rich soil. Elevated beds work well, providing good aeration and drainage

• LIGHT: Indirect light is best for healthy growth of ferns. Avoid direct afternoon sunlight. Filtered sun or early morning and late afternoon sunlight will produce a healthier, stronger plant

• FERTILISING: Ferns that are growing in humus rich soil, will require very little fertiliser. Use a fertilise that is high in nitrogen, about once a month during the growing season

• WATERING: Good watering practices are crucial for healthy ferns. During the growing season, you may have to water often. Depending on the weather, this may mean watering every few days. Most ferns prefer a moist, humid environment. Good drainage is also necessary to prevent drowning the plant

• CARING: The leaf of a fern is called the frond. Remove dead fronds periodically to ensure they look fresh and healthy