Ferns

Ferns are shade-loving plants that thrive in the cool, sheltered spots most other plants avoid. They’re ideal for that shady corner under a tree, along the south side of the house, or anywhere that stays damp and protected from direct sun.

Melbourne’s cool winters and regular rainfall make it a great city for growing ferns. We stock a wide range of fern varieties, from delicate maidenhair ferns for sheltered spots to tough birds nest ferns that handle a range of conditions.

Ferns add a lush, cool feeling to shaded areas that would otherwise look bare. They work well under established trees, in ferneries, along shaded pathways, and in pots on covered patios.

Most ferns prefer consistent moisture but not waterlogged soil. Add plenty of organic matter to the soil before planting, and keep a layer of mulch around the base to hold moisture in. Avoid placing ferns in full sun or windy spots, as their delicate fronds dry out quickly.

Feed ferns with a diluted liquid fertiliser during the growing season (spring and summer). Remove brown or damaged fronds at the base to keep plants looking tidy and encourage fresh new growth.

View Our Full Range of Ferns

Our team can help you choose ferns that suit your specific shady spots. Whether you’re building a fernery, filling a gap under a tree, or looking for a potted fern for your verandah, we have options that will do well in Melbourne conditions.

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1-12 of 18 results

  • Blue Star Fern

     Price range: $12.95 through $20.95
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  • Macho Fern

     Price range: $21.95 through $56.95
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  • Kangaroo Paw Fern

     Price range: $11.95 through $14.95
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  • Duffii Fern

     Price range: $13.95 through $23.95
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  • Australian Tree Fern

     Price range: $55.00 through $289.00
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  • Blue Bell Fern

     Price range: $10.95 through $13.95
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  • Meyersii Foxtail Fern

     Price range: $26.95 through $51.95
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  • White Rabbit’s Foot Fern

     Price range: $11.95 through $25.95
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  • Teddy Junior Fern

     Price range: $12.95 through $25.95
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  • Silver Lady Fern

     Price range: $11.95 through $39.95
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  • Leatherleaf Fern

     Price range: $11.95 through $23.95
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  • Boston Montana Fern

     Price range: $11.95 through $24.95
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Ferns

Did You Know?

Ferns have been growing on Earth for over 350 million years, long before flowering plants existed. Here are some useful facts for growing them in Melbourne:

  • Ferns don’t produce flowers or seeds. Instead, they reproduce through spores found on the underside of their fronds. Those brown dots you sometimes see on fern leaves aren’t a disease u2013 they’re the plant’s way of spreading to new areas.
  • Melbourne’s south-facing walls are perfect for ferns. South-facing spots stay cool and shaded for most of the day, which is exactly what most ferns prefer. Add a layer of leaf mulch and keep the soil moist, and ferns will reward you with lush green growth year-round.
  • Tree ferns can grow over 10 metres tall in the right conditions. The soft tree fern (Dicksonia antarctica) is native to Victoria’s forests and grows well in Melbourne gardens. It’s slow-growing but makes a striking focal point in a shaded garden over time.

From Our Garden Guide

Ferns

Ferns bring a cool, green feel to the shadiest parts of your garden. Our team is happy to help you pick the right varieties for your space. Visit our Garden Guide for more tips on shade gardening and fern care.