Do ferns need sun?

Although thousands of fern species exist, some do especially well in a garden, and most also can grow in the proper environment indoors. A varied group of plants, ferns need moist soil, and most grow best in partial to full shade. Certain types, though, also handle some sunlight, and a few even tolerate full-sun exposure. read more

Most ferns do well in part shade or dappled sunlight, but there are many which will do well with quite a bit of sun, provided they get enough water. Shade loving ferns appreciate an organic, evenly moist, well drained soil. read more

Sun-tolerant ferns include cinnamon fern (Osmunda cinnamomea) which reaches heights of 24 to 36 inches and grows in USDA zones 2 through 10. Royal fern (Osmunda regalis), a large fern that grows to mature heights of 3 to 4 feet, is suitable for USDA zones 2 through 10. read more