Which Fern Can I Plant Under My Sugar Maple Trees

Sugar maple trees are one of the most popular choices for landscaping as they provide both stunning foliage and shade during summer days. However, choosing the right plants to accompany the sugar maples can be a challenge. One type of plant that can thrive under the shade of the maple trees is ferns. Ferns not only offer a variety of textures and colors but also help to keep the soil moist and prevent erosion. Here are some ferns that you can plant under your sugar maple trees.

1. Lady fern (Athyrium filix-femina)

Lady fern is one of the most common ferns to plant under maple trees as it can adapt to a wide range of soil types and light conditions. This fern can grow up to 3 feet tall and typically has delicate fronds that can be cut up to 12 inches long. Lady ferns are easy to maintain and require minimal water once established. They are also deer resistant, making them a great option for gardens that are frequently visited by these animals.

2. Ostrich fern (Matteuccia struthiopteris)

Ostrich ferns are known for their long and arching fronds that can reach up to 6 feet long during the growing season. They prefer moist soil and partial shade, making them an ideal candidate for planting under sugar maple trees. Ostrich ferns can also tolerate different soil types, but they require consistent watering during hot and dry periods. Additionally, ostrich ferns are edible and have a distinct flavor similar to asparagus.

3. Christmas fern (Polystichum acrostichoides)

The Christmas fern is native to the eastern part of North America and is a popular option for groundcover. This fern can grow up to 3 feet tall and has deep green fronds that remain green throughout the year, making them a great choice for a winter garden under the sugar maple trees. Christmas ferns prefer well-drained soil and partial to full shade. They can also tolerate dry soil once established and are deer resistant.

4. Cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea)

Cinnamon ferns are named after their cinnamon-colored spore-bearing fronds that grow in the center of the plant. They can grow up to 5 feet tall and prefer moist soil and partial shade. Cinnamon ferns are an ideal plant for erosion control as they have extensive root systems that can hold soil firmly in place. These ferns tolerate a range of soil types and are generally easy to maintain once established.

5. Japanese painted fern (Athyrium niponicum)

If you are looking for a fern that can add contrasting colors and textures to your sugar maple garden, the Japanese painted fern is an excellent choice. This fern has silver and burgundy fronds that can grow up to 18 inches tall. Japanese painted ferns can tolerate shade but require consistent moisture to thrive. They are also deer resistant and can tolerate a range of soil types.

In conclusion, planting ferns under your sugar maple trees can add beauty and functionality to your garden. Whether you are looking for a stunning groundcover, erosion control, or a contrast of colors, ferns can offer it all with minimal maintenance.