Sword Fern
The Sword Fern - Large And Showy
The Sword fern ( polystichum munitum), is a native of the west coast, stretching from northern California to Alaska. It is a large, showy fern, popular both as a container plant or in a woodland setting. It can be grown on the porch, patio, or in the garden.
The Sword fern is characterized by shiny dark green fronds, growing up to 5 feet long and up to 5 inches wide. The fronds are often used in floral arrangements, as they are long lasting when cut. Mature plants may have up to 100 fronds. The fronds grow upright, and then begin to droop as they mature. It can tolerate more sun than can the Boston fern, to which it is closely related. It does well when placed such that it will be in partial shade during the summer, and can receive an hour or two of sun on most days during the winter.
The fern has been on earth for at least 300 million years, and there are around 12,000 species in existence today. Ferns are to found in every region of the earth with the exception of the polar regions. Most species are found in tropical locations. Given the fact that ferns prefer a habitat similar to their native habitat, a limited number of species may be readily available for your home or garden. The Sword fern will be at home in most temperate climates, especially coastal regions. In a natural setting, the sword fern is often considered to be an invasive plant.
Like other species, the sword fern prefers a loamy, well-drained soil, rich in nutrients. A mixture of equal parts of loamy garden soil, peat or sphagnum, and sand, is a good growing medium. A little manure, for added nutrients, is a good idea as well. Adding charcoal will assist in drainage when the fern is to be grown in a container or pot, with the peat or sphagnum providing moisture retention.
All ferns love humidity, which can be a problem if kept as an indoor plant. When planted outdoors, whether in the garden, or on a porch or patio, ferns should be placed in a sheltered location, safe from drying winds. In the house, an electric humidifier may come in handy in a room where ferns are grown. If this is not practical, plant containers can be placed on trays filled with gravel and water, providing humidity in the vicinity of the plants.
Sword ferns are fairly pest and disease resistant. Infestations of scale or mealy bugs can occur however. When purchasing a fern plant, it should be carefully and thoroughly examined, to ensure no insects are present. Ferns generally do not tolerate insecticides. If infestation is serious, the plant may have to be discarded.
Many have enjoyed the Sword fern over the years, and no doubt will continue to do so in the future. It is one of the easiest, and showiest, ferns to have in your care.