Autumn Fern 4"

Light

Autumn fern needs to be planted in a location where it gets dappled sunlight or partial or full shade.

Soil

The soil should be similar to conditions in the fern’s native woodland habitat in eastern Asia: acidic with a pH below 6.0, containing a high amount of organic matter, consistently moist but with good drainage. 

Water

Until it is established, during the first growing season, a newly planted autumn fern needs regular watering in the absence of rain. In climates with regular rainfall, watering is not necessary. In drier climates, or during dry spells or extended droughts, water the area around the plant slowly and deeply to keep the soil moist, ideally with a soaker hose.

Temperature and Humidity

Autumn fern grows in a fairly wide climate range; it tolerates both freezing winter weather and does well in moderately warm summer temperatures and high humidity. However, it does not do well in hot or dry weather, and it is especially vulnerable to drying winds that parch the soil.

In the lower range of its climate zone spectrum, in USDA zones 5 and 6, the foliage might die back during the winter but will bounce back in the spring. 

Fertilizer

Autumn fern that has been planted in soil high in organic matter only needs a springtime application of a complete all-purpose fertilizer.