Blechnum spicant |
Native Region: Pacific Northwest
Zone Range: 5-10
Preferred Climate: Sites with dappled sun or morning sun; well draining humus rich acidic soil.
Harvest Date: Sunday 30 November, 2008
Seed count: 750-1000
Description:
A unique evergreen fern with two distinct frond types. The vegetative frond has broad leaflets, whereas the reproductive fronds have long narrow leaflets giving an impression of two ferns in one. Its small size (45-60 cm x 30 cm) is perfect for almost any garden whether it be under trees, along a walkway, or tucked here or there. Drought tolerant when established but doesn't do well in hot sites with prolonged drought.
Cultivation:
Spore needs light and constant moist conditions to germinate. A peat medium is best (NO PERLITE). Finely mill the peat between your hands to break up the big bits/clumps as this makes it easier for the mobile gametes to swim, find each other and make little ferns. Any container will do but it is important not to disturb the sown medium surface. Moisten the medium well, tamp firm, sprinkle spore evenly, but densely. Mist well and use a clear plastic cover. Germinate at 20C. Mist almost daily. You will see a green film forming, this is good. Do not disturb surface as the gametes are mobile and are trying to meet each other. In a monht or so you should see green shelves followed by fronds. Success! Leave and let grow out for several months as they are very fragile. Transplant when big enough into pots to grow on.
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