Dryopteris affinis

Dryopteris affinis

Why Buy Me?

• Easy to grow
• Great for shade
• Helps to create a woodland themed garden

Growing Conditions

Light:
Prefers partial to full shade. It thrives in low light conditions and is ideal for woodland gardens, shaded borders, and under tree canopies. It can tolerate some morning sun but should be protected from hot afternoon sun, which may scorch the fronds.

Soil:
Moist, well-drained, humus-rich, acidic to neutral soil. It prefers loamy or sandy soil that retains moisture but does not become waterlogged. Enrich the soil with organic matter such as compost or leaf litter for optimal growth.

Exposure:
Dryopteris affinis is best suited for sheltered areas that offer protection from harsh winds. It is hardy in the UK, tolerating cold temperatures down to -15°C (5°F), making it a great choice for a variety of climates.

Drought Tolerance:
Low. It requires consistent moisture, particularly in the growing season. While it tolerates some dryness, it thrives best in moist conditions. Water regularly during dry periods, especially in summer.

Cultivation & Care

Planting Time:
Best planted in spring or autumn. Plant when the soil is moist and the temperatures are mild, allowing the fern to establish before extreme summer heat or winter frost.

Spacing:
Space plants 45–60 cm (18–24 inches) apart. Dryopteris affinis can grow to a height of 60–90 cm (24–36 inches) and has a similar spread, so ensure enough room for its fronds to arch out naturally.

Watering & Fertilization:
Water regularly to keep the soil consistently moist. Avoid letting the soil dry out, especially during hot weather. Apply a slow-release, balanced fertilizer in early spring, or use organic matter like compost to feed the plant naturally.

Mulching & Pruning:
Mulch around the base with organic materials such as compost, leaf muold, or bark to retain moisture, suppress weeds, and add nutrients. In late autumn, you can cut back any old or damaged fronds to tidy up the plant and make way for new growth.

Propagation:
Dryopteris affinis can be propagated by division in early spring or autumn. Carefully lift and separate the clumps of the fern, ensuring each section has a good root system. Alternatively, it can be propagated by spores, though division is more reliable and quicker.

Seasonal Interest

Spring:
New, bright green fronds emerge in spring, unfurling in a graceful, coiled manner. This fresh growth provides attractive foliage throughout the season.

Summer:
The fern’s fronds mature and fill out, providing a dense, lush, and textured backdrop to the garden. It thrives in the cool, moist conditions of summer.

Autumn:
As the weather cools, the fronds may begin to turn yellow or brown. In areas where winter frost is mild, Dryopteris affinis may retain some of its foliage through the season, but it may die back in colder regions.

Winter:
It is semi-evergreen in mild climates but may die back fully in colder areas. If you are in a region with harsh winters, consider mulching the base to protect the crown from frost damage.

Wildlife & Garden Use

Wildlife:
Dryopteris affinis provides shelter for small insects and invertebrates. While it doesn’t attract a lot of flowers or nectar-seeking pollinators, its dense foliage can offer habitat for beneficial bugs in the garden.

Garden Use:
Ideal for woodland gardens, shady borders, or as ground cover beneath taller plants. It also works well in rock gardens, as long as they are shaded. It can be a lovely companion to other ferns, hostas, or spring-blooming bulbs.

Companion Plants:
Pairs beautifully with other ferns such as Dryopteris filix-mas, Polystichum setiferum, or Blechnum spicant. It also looks great with shade-loving plants like Hostas, Astilbes, and Tiarella. The fern’s lush green texture contrasts well with plants that have different leaf shapes or colours, such as Brunnera or Heuchera.

Transform your home and garden with the Dryopteris affinis , a must-have for any season. Order online now for quick and easy shopping, or drop by your local Thompson's Branch to explore it up close and get personalised recommendations.