I acquired a lot of ostrich ferns from someone who wanted to get rid of them. It was in May I think. The ferns were already large. I transplanted them immediately and tried to keep them watered. They have been turning dark and drying up, usually from the top to the bottom. What could be the reason for this and what can I do? I planted them under a tree in the shade in two different areas of the yard. One area gets some sun.
Ferns, especially large ones like the ostrich, send their roots out a long way. Even though you may have tried to dig up a big root ball, most of the roots were ripped away. So your ferns are busy growing new roots. They may have to discard most of the leaves in order to save their resources. It may take awhile, like a couple of years, for them to get their roots under them, but they're awfully tough plants, they should make it. Here's some information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/ostrich-fern/growing-ostrich-ferns.htm
Something seems to be eating my ostrich fern. What remedy would you recommend?
This could be a number of different insects, cut worms or caterpillars.
Spraying ferns with a insecticide can harm the fronds Using a granular systemic insecticide applied to the soil surface would be recommended.
If you may be seeing any slug damage on any other plants, I have also listed a link about controlling them.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/ostrich-fern/growing-ostrich-ferns.htm
http://extension.unh.edu/resources/representation/Resource000477_Rep499.pdf
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/kill-garden-slugs.htm
Do I plant these roots now? I live in northern Ontario, Canada. We will be getting frost overnight in the very near future.
Though I would recommend purchasing and planting the ferns for spring, if you have the crowns now, go ahead and plant them.
Here is a link with more information.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/ostrich-fern/growing-ostrich-ferns.htm
Something is eating my ferns to the bare bones. Last year I had black spots on the underside of the fronds............what are these and what products can I get to tackle these problems?
Sounds like black spot fungus. Here is a link that gives you info on how to treat it;
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/black-spot-fungus.htm
My ostrich ferns are dying. Help! They are so beautiful. They have been in the same bed for 3 years now and have not had a problem. Thanks.
Ostrich ferns are sensitive to drought and heat, so make sure they have enough water and shade. If the plants are generally healthy, they should still grow back next year even if the foliage dies during one harsh summer.
What fern variety do cut brown monkey tails - fern curls come from?
Ostrich Ferns very first Spring shoots are the plants that produce Fiddleheads.
I recommend you do your research before harvesting and consuming your own Fiddleheads.
Sometimes they can be found at local Farmers Markets in the Spring.
Here are some links to help you.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/ostrich-fern/growing-ostrich-ferns.htm
http://fearlesseating.net/fiddleheads/
I live in Michigan and just transplanted some ostrich ferns it is going to be chilly tonight should I still thoroughly water them?
Water newly transplanted ferns, soil should be moist; not soggy.