Wildlife value of Maidenhair Fern — an unexpected bonus

I planted Maidenhair Fern primarily for ornamental reasons. What I didn't anticipate was the wildlife it would attract. exceptional ability to thrive in deep shade seems to be particularly appealing to bees and butterflies during the main growing period.

I grow it in a hanging basket in a cool bathroom which allows me to watch the activity up close. early emergence from the soil before most other plants in spring is the most active period for wildlife visits. misting the fronds in dry centrally heated rooms is important for keeping the plant healthy enough to flower well and provide that value. scale insects on the undersides of fronds is the thing to watch — it reduces flowering and therefore wildlife visits if left unchecked. A plant that earns its place twice over.