Fern

Ferns are plants belonging to the family Dryopteridaceae, which includes about 500 species. They inhabit all continents except Antarctica. They occur mainly in temperate and subtropical zones. Ferns grow in lowlands, highlands, and mountain slopes. In Europe, they are found both in the wild and in cultivation. They are used in bouquets, including dried bouquets, in which cut or preserved fern leaves are used. Dried ferns are also prized by craft enthusiasts.

What do ferns look like?

Ferns are spore-bearing plants, which means they do not produce flowers. However, they compensate for this with their beautiful leaf shapes. These can take the form of impressive plumes, openwork umbrellas, or long ribbons that catch the eye with their wavy edges. In late summer, clusters of spores appear on the underside of the leaves. Some species form separate spore-bearing leaves, which are usually brown in color. Ferns do not produce stems. The leaves grow from an underground rhizome. Initially, they take the form of a curved crook of a light green or reddish color.

Ferns in natural conditions and in the garden

Wild ferns grow almost everywhere in the world, including Poland. Most of them are shade-loving species. For this reason, they are most often found in forests, sheltered from direct sunlight by tree crowns. Some varieties of ferns also grow in rock crevices. The plants can also be found on the shores of lakes and rivers.

Ferns are also perfect for gardens. The most popular species are those that prefer shady locations – preferably under trees or near the foundations of fences or houses. In open spaces, ferns grow well on the north side. Underground ferns have highly branched rhizomes, thanks to which they form lush, dense thickets. The plants are not difficult to grow. They prefer humus-rich, well-drained soil. Care should be taken to keep the soil moist to prevent the edges of the leaves from turning brown. During dry periods, ferns require regular watering, especially if they grow alongside trees or shrubs that consume large amounts of water. During the growing season, ferns can be fertilized using preparations with a pH level appropriate for the specific species.

The use of ferns

Ferns work well in gardens, especially naturalistic ones. They look beautiful on their own, creating carpets under trees or in garden nooks. They can also be combined with other plants. They look good in the company of evergreen species, such as periwinkle or runianka. Ferns also make an impressive duo with hostas. Their long, spreading leaves are perfect as cut plants. Lovers of modern arrangements can place single specimens in slender, simple vases. Fern leaves are a perfect addition to bouquets, including those made from wild field flowers.

Ferns are increasingly appearing in various dried plant decorations. The best choice is a preserved fern. A special preservation process allows the plant to retain its flexibility and natural appearance. At the same time, it means that it does not require access to water. Preserved ferns are used in interior decorations and even in compositions chosen by brides on their wedding day. They can be left in their natural color or bleached. Both versions are appreciated by handicraft enthusiasts. Bleached stabilized ferns can be embedded in resin and used to create jewelry. They are perfect as elements of floral arrangements, wreaths, or macramé. The flat leaves are often used to make collages.

Preserved fern at Blosmi

At Blosmi, you will find bleached preserved ferns. Bundles of 5 leaves are available. Individual leaves differ in shape. They can bend in different directions and reach a length of 20 to 35 cm. Leaves are selected at random. All dried plants we offer are carefully secured for transport.