Lady Ferns and their Allies

From The Encyclopaedia of Ferns An Introduction to Ferns, their Structure, Biology, Economic Importance, Cultivation and Propagation by David L. Jones ISBN 0 88192 054 1:-

"Genera Allantodia, Athyrium, Callipteris, Cornopteris, Cystopteris, Diplazium, Lunathyrium and Pseudocystopteris are an attractive group of ferns which contain some very decorative species of delicate appearance including the Lady Fern itself (Athyrium filix-femina).

Habitat
Ferns of this group are invariably terrestrials and are mostly shade lovers. They are found in temperate and tropical regions, although they are most abundant in the tropics.

Cultivation

Uses
Many species of this group are valued for their delicate and finely divided fronds. They mingle well with other ferns and can also be grown as garden plants in shady positions. A few species are amenable to cultivation in containers.

Soil Types
Most of these ferns appreciate humus and well-drained organically rich loams with regular applications of organic mulch to the soil surface. Species such as Diplazium dilatatum and Diplazium dietrichianum will grow in wet to boggy soils providing the water is not stagnant. Most species need an acid soil; a few, such as Lunathyrium japonicum, appreciate the addition of lime.

Potting Mix
An open mix based on well-structured loam and fortified with peat moss or milled pine bark is usually suitable. Many ferns of this group have a very strong root system and quickly outgrow a container. Such species are best planted in the ground otherwise their appearance suffers because of the confined root system.

Watering
This group generally like moist conditions and appreciate plenty of water, especially during periods of hot or dry weather. They also respond to water sprayed onto their foliage during such weather. Their fronds quickly become tattered if the plants dry out at the roots or are exposed to dry buffeting winds.

Fertilizing
These ferns are strong growers. Blood and bone, well-rotted animal manure (Cow manure contains no weed seeds since the cows have eaten the food 4 times) and compost should be applied during the spring or summer. Slow-release fertilisers can be added to a potting mix and/or the plants supplemented with applications of liquid fertiliser.

Situation
Most ferns in this group are shade lovers. They will tolerate brief exposure to direct sun or filtered sun, but they are readily damaged by over-exposure. A few species will tolerate nearly full sun (Callipteris prolifera, Diplazium dietrichianum, Lunathyrium japonicum), but need plenty of moisture around their roots. The tropical species are generally very sensitive to cold, and frosts in particular.

Pests
Young fronds of most species are eagerly attacked by slugs and snails. Grubs may be a problem on those with finely divided fronds and aphids may congregate on croziers and uncurling fronds (See Pest Control in companion planting)."