Matteuccia struthiopteris

A deciduous shuttlecock-shaped suckering fern growing to 1.5m tall by 1m wide.

The showy parts of this fern are the finely dissected medium green fronds which exhibit a feathery appearance in a shuttlecock shape.The fronds emerge upright from the base of the clumps in spring and die down for the winter.

Best in humus-rich neutral to slightly acidic soil with constant moisture. Prefers cool climates and is generally in tolerant of the hot and humid summers.

Plant when the soil is moist and warm in autumn or early spring so that a good root system develops to support vigorous new growth. Remove all perennial weeds. Incorporate bark compost or other organic material. Before planting ensure the root ball is saturated and remove the planter bag or pot with minimal root disturbance. Trim any broken roots and plant at the same level as in the container. Dig a hole twice the diameter of the root ball and firm in and water once planted. Make sure plants are watered well until established if planting in a drier period. Plant with some general slow release fertiliser and then every spring apply an organic based fertiliser such as blood and bone at a handful per square metre as new growth begins. Planting too closely leads to poor growth and eventual decline. In a well-planned border the plants should just touch each other to create a full effect without overcrowding. Plant approximately 70cm apart. Mulching will help to conserve moisture and suppress weeds.

Apply mulch annually this will help suppress weeds and conserve moisture.

Groom plants occasionally during the summer by removing spent flower stalks and dead leaves. Apply an organic-based fertiliser in spring at a handful per square metre or less. Too much fertiliser may result in too much soft leafy growth which maybe easily damaged in cooler weather.

Plants may be left undisturbed for a number of years before lifting dividing and replanting. This can be achieved by lifting the plants and putting two garden forks back to back through the clump and pushing apart. The resulting clumps should be immediately replanted where they are to grow. If they are left for a number of years without being divided they do not perform as well. Dividing not only gives you more plants but rejuvenates the plants. Do not disturb plants if they are healthy and growing well.

Watering through the summer months maybe necessary.

Generally pest and disease free

TBC