Herb Magic and Hardy Plants 19 
Native Ferns 
Do not plant ferns with much covering over the crowns, just enough to 
anchor them to the soil. The Ostrich Fern should be set with part of the crown 
above the soil. All of the ferns are adapted to both spring and fall planting, 
though late spring or summer planting of the larger varieties requires extra 
care in providing constant moisture until the roots are established. If planted 
in the fall, mulch with leaves or straw for protection over the first winter. If 
planted during the growing season and the tops become broken or bruised, cut 
them off and new fronds will soon appear. 
Most all ferns require a plentiful supply of leaf mold, peat or other loose 
humus in the soil to give the best results. Ferns have a tendency to ripen off 
early in the season if the summer is very hot and dry. Frequent and plentiful 
watering will extend their season very materially. 
In order to economize we have reduced the number of varieties of ferns and 
natives but we can supply most of the varieties that have appeared in recent 
lists, at the prices given in these lists. 
BRITTLE FERN Cystopteris fragilis 
Delicately cut fronds up to twelve inches long. For the shaded moist rock 
garden. 12 for $2.50; Each 25c. 
BULBLET FERN Cystopteris bulbifera 
- Long narrow graceful fronds up to 24 inches long. Tiny little bulblets on the 
back of the fronds drop off to start new plants. Shade and good humus soil. 
100 for $15.00; 12 for $2.50; Each 25c. 
CHRISTMAS FERN Polystichum achrosticoides 
Evergreen fern with dark green, leathery fronds. Enjoys fairly heavy shade 
and rich humus soil. An excellent kind for growing indoors. 100 for $15.00; 
12 for $2.50; Each 25c. 
CLIFF-BRAKE, PURPLE Pellaea atropurpurea 
Beautiful blue-green leathery fronds on dark purple stems up to 12 inches. 
Likes weli-drained sandy soil and light shade. 100 for $18.00; 12 for $3.50; 
Each 35c. 
INTERRUPTED FERN Osmunda Claytoniana 
A tall growing luxuriant fern of light green color up to four feet. The 
brown sections in middle of some fronds are the seed-producers, hence interrupted 
fern. For light shade and well drained soils. 100 for $15.00; 12 for $2.50; 
Each 25c. 
LADY FERN Athyrium angustum 
One of the indispensible varieties where a graceful fern growing up to three 
feet is needed. Although it will grow under widely varying conditions, it does 
best in a rich humus soil, well drained but never lacking for moisture. 100 for 
$15.00; 12 for $2.50; Each 25c. 
