Why Are There Tubes in Ferns?

Rhizome structure

• Two basic tissues, conducting and strengthening, make up the interior of the rhizome. The vascular bundle acts like our blood supply system, "conducting" the nutrients throughout the fern's system. Without these tubular tissues, the fern could not survive.

Rhizome location

• Rhizomes are the stems of the fern, growing either just under the surface or above the surface in the case of epiphytic, or tree dwelling, ferns. Fronds, the lacy or fan like foliage of the fern, shoot up from the rhizomes. Fronds can spread quickly through an area creating a mass of ferns thanks to the horizontal movement of the rhizomes along the soil line.

Rhizome care

• Indoor ferns require special attention to their root system. Choose a shallow container with good drainage and monitor the spread of the fronds in the pot. If a frond appears closer to the edge of the pot than one inch, re-pot the fern to ensure optimal growth. Some ferns will require re-potting several times per year, while others spread slowly. The rhizomes of indoor ferns will create new plants for you as you admire their efficiency.

Rhizome division

• Divide ferns as new growth emerge in spring. Lift the clump of ferns gently from the ground with a garden rake or spade, taking care to life around the outside of the root system. Using a sharp, clean knife, make divisions to allow for a section of rhizome 2 inches long or more, with a frond at the top. Re-plant as soon as possible, with the frond upright in a shallow hole to just cover the rhizome with soil when planted. Division of ferns by rhizomes is easier and less time consuming than propagating them by spores.