How to Successfully Transplant Ferns

Ferns are beautiful, graceful plants that can add charm and elegance to any garden. While ferns may appear delicate, they are actually quite hardy when cared for properly Transplanting ferns, whether to a new location in your garden or into a container, is simple when you follow some key tips. In this article, we will walk through the process step-by-step so you can transplant your ferns with confidence.

When to Transplant Ferns

The best time to transplant ferns is in early spring before any new growth has emerged. This minimizes shock to the plant. Late spring or early summer is the second best option for transplanting. Avoid transplanting during the heat of summer or when the plant is dormant in winter.

Transplant on an overcast, cool day to reduce stress on the plant. Morning or evening are ideal times, when the sun is not at its peak.

How to Prepare for Transplanting Ferns

Proper planning and preparation will help ensure transplant success:

• Choose a shady transplant site with rich, moist soil. Most ferns require evenly moist soil and indirect sunlight or dappled shade. Amend the soil with compost or peat moss if needed.

• Prepare the planting hole in advance. Dig a hole wider and deeper than the fern’s root ball or clump.

• Have planting containers ready if transplanting into pots. Choose containers with drainage holes and use a potting mix formulated for ferns.

• Water the ferns thoroughly 1-2 days before transplanting. This will make it easier to remove the root ball.

• Remove any dead or damaged fronds prior to transplanting to reduce stress on the plant.

How to Dig Up and Transplant Ferns

Follow these simple steps for transplanting fern plants with minimal disruption:

• Water the ferns well before digging them up. Use a garden fork to loosen the soil around the roots.

• Carefully dig up the entire fern clump, keeping as much soil around the roots as possible.

• Lift the clump from its bottom or root area, rather than by the fronds, to avoid damaging delicate fronds.

• Place the intact fern clump into a pot or wheelbarrow for easy transport.

• Move the fern to its prepared transplant site right away.

• Place the fern clump into the new hole. The top of the root ball should be level with the ground.

• Cover the shallow fern roots with 2-3 inches of soil. Firm the soil gently around the roots.

• Water thoroughly after transplanting to remove any air pockets.

Caring for Transplanted Ferns

Reduce shock and help establish newly transplanted ferns by providing ideal growing conditions:

• Water transplanted ferns daily for the first week, then 2-3 times per week thereafter. The soil should be kept evenly moist but not soggy.

• Mulch around transplants with 2-3 inches of organic matter like bark chips or compost. This helps retain soil moisture.

• Mist ferns in the morning to increase humidity. Use rainwater or distilled water whenever possible.

• Stake tall fronds if needed to prevent breakage until the fern is established.

• Apply a diluted liquid kelp or seaweed fertilizer monthly to encourage new growth.

• Check soil moisture often and water whenever the top few inches become dry. The fibrous fern roots need constant moisture.

• Remove any fronds that become damaged, dry or discolored to conserve the plant’s energy. Healthy new growth will emerge over time.

Troubleshooting Transplant Issues

Monitor closely for signs of transplant stress. If ferns show wilting, browning fronds or minimal new growth, try these troubleshooting tips:

• Check that the planting depth is correct – don’t bury the ferns too deeply. Roots should be just below the soil surface.

• Improve drainage by adding organic material if soil is too compacted.

• Move pots or plantings into a shadier spot if ferro is receiving too much direct sun.

• Rule out root rot by inspecting roots and soil drainage.

• Increase watering frequency and volume if transplant is drying out between waterings.

By following proper techniques for preparing, transplanting, and caring for ferns, you can move these delicate beauties to enhance your garden’s design. Pay close attention in the weeks after transplanting to ensure the ferns establish successfully in their new location. With some patience and TLC, your transplanted ferns will thrive.