My Fern from 'down under'

G'day mates!

I first noticed Australian tree ferns in people's yards a few years ago and always wondered what kind of fern it was. After all, it grows like a tree. Not something I've always associated with ferns. A little over a year ago, I went to my favorite nursery and spotted it. The nursery had about seven small plants left so, I got one. I took it home and replanted it from it's little 4" pot into a 1 gallon pot. But, after a few months I noticed it started to wither and eventually died. I couldn't figure out what went wrong. I watered it like you're supposed to, as well as the feeding but, it still croaked! I still wanted the native aussie. But I was scared the same thing would happen again. I started thinking maybe it wasn't meant to be.

While shopping at my local Walmart I found a bunch of Aussie ferns! I was so excited. These plants were gigantic! The fronds were at least the length of my arm. I had to get one regardless of my past experience. So, this time I planted my fern in the backyard.

It's been a year since I've had my aussie favorite. Aussie tree ferns are more accustomed to partial shade but, she's done very well in her sunny spot. I've learned that as long as the root ball is covered with mulch and kept moist, the plant does fine. She's a fast grower (super fast!) and does great in the 30+ degree weather we have in Florida. I water her once a day during the summer months and every 1-2 days during the winter. I guess my first little plant needed more "growing" room.

Here is a pic of a budding frond. I love the way the fronds are "born". They remind me of an embryo in a mother's womb. Simply beautiful!