The life cycle of the fern has two different stages; sporophyte, which releases spores, and gametophyte, which releases gametes. Gametophyte plants are haploid, sporophyte plants diploid. This type of life cycle is called alternation of generations.

sporangia

The first stage is that of the gametophyte. Spores are produced on the underside of mature plants. These will germinate and grow into small, heart-shaped plants called gametophytes. The gametophytes produce both sperm and egg cells, and will fertilize itself, or others.

But, unlike many other kinds of plants, ferns do not produce flowers or seeds. Instead, they reproduce by means of spores, particles so small that they float in the air like so many specks of dust. Each fiddlehead is a single coiled leaf, or frond, of a fern plant, its delicate growing tip protected inside the coil.

There are many varieties of ferns around us, but the ostrich and cinnamon fern are the only two that are edible and safe to eat. Fiddleheads should be cooked thoroughly before eating. Raw fiddleheads can carry food-borne illness and may cause stomach upset if you eat too many of them.

Starting Fiddlehead Ferns This particular species of fern spreads by underground runners. Space the plants approximately 2 to 3 feet apart. New plants will develop from the main root and can be divided and moved or left in place.

The price for the ferns that they sell range from $8 to $15….

When shopping for perennial ferns, keep in mind they go dormant during the winter. Perennial ferns sold in the early spring may not have much growth on them yet. Because they grow a bit slower than tropical ferns, buy the largest plants you can find if you want to make a statement in your garden the first year.

Perennial ferns are the perfect addition to any shade garden….Some varieties may not be available at all times, so please contact us for availability information.

• AUTUMN BRILLIANCE.
• CHRISTMAS.
• CINNAMON.
• DIXIE WOOD.
• GHOST.
• JAPANESE HOLLY.
• JAPANESE PAINTED.
• JAPANESE TASSEL.