How Much Do Ferns Cost?
A fern is a type of plant that belongs to a single botanical group. There are a wide variety of ferns available — at least 12,000 species of ferns currently living.
Ferns have several uses, and although these plants are not as important economically as seed plants, they are often considered a decorative plant in most countries. They can also be used as food and are flexible enough to be used as biological fertilizers. Ferns are also a component for producing fossil fuel.
The price of ferns depends on the type of fern, age, size and where it’s being purchased from.
How much does a fern cost?
On average, the price of a fern is going to be anywhere from $5 to as much as $30 for a simple hanging or potted plant. The time of the season, the size, as well as the geographical location, can play a factor in the pricing.
Larger plants, such as those that reach five to six feet wide, can cost upwards of $2,000 or more. At the time of this writing, for example, there was a classified ad for a 25-year-old staghorn fern listed for $2,500.
A staghorn fern, for example, can retail for $25 for a six-inch plant, while a southern wood fern can cost about $20 for a 2.5-quart plant. Another popular fern — the Boston fern – can cost about $10 for a smaller four-inch plant.
Plants that can be planted in the yard can cost anywhere from $4 to $35 depending on the type. For example, the Hardy Ostrich Fern that grows up to eight feet tall retails for $5 to $8.
The website SugarCreekGardens.com offers several kinds of ferns. They sell everything from Ghost Ferns to Lady Ferns, ranging from $7 to $14.
Another online retailer such as PlantDelights.com sells different types of ferns from the Perennial Maidenhair Fern to Fan Dance Ferns. The price for the ferns that they sell range from $8 to $15.
Refer to our table below to see what most of the popular types of ferns cost.
| Type of Fern | Average Price |
|---|---|
| Boston Fern | $20 for 10-inch |
| Fiddlehead Fern | $12 per small plant |
| Giant Ostrich Fern | $12 per plant |
| Leather Leaf Fern | $10 for 12-inch |
| Mexican Male Fern | $20 |
| Red Stem | $15 per plant |
| Silver Lady Fern | $5 for 4-inch |
Types of ferns
Autumn fern
This semi-evergreen fern is known for its arching fronds. In the spring, it will turn pink in color, while in the spring and summer, it will be a dark green.
Boston fern
This common indoor plant can grow up to five feet tall and can be bred into a large variety of ferns.
Christmas fern
This popular evergreen fern looks similar to a Boston fern but is much slower in terms of growth.
Lady fern
A drought tolerant that’s able to grow up to three feet tall.
Male fern
Shaped like a vase, this evergreen can grow up to five feet tall and can do well in shade and wetter soil.
Southern maidenhair fern
This hardy plant can survive in almost all soil conditions, including rocks. Even though the plant is hardy, it is still considered to be delicate.
Staghorn fern
These ferns, unlike most, won’t need soil to grow. They are able to grow on walls, posts and are known for its deep green, antler-like fronds.
What are the extra costs?
To have the ferns planted by a professional landscaper, plan on spending $10 to $20 per plant.
Separate pots and fertilizer will be necessary to ensure that the plant lives a long, healthy life.
Since these plants tend to hang, many opt to hang them from the ceiling or even outside. If this is the case, hanging supplies such as a chain and hook can cost as little as $5.
Tips to know
Ferns are incredibly durable and it will take a lot to see them go. Most will do well as long as the soil is rich, well drained and has plenty of organic matter. If planted outdoors, just make sure the plant receives water during dry periods and receives a routine mulching session.
A bushy fern can be harder to water, so a watering can with a longer spout is recommended.
HGTV says a bathroom and kitchen is a good environment due to the running water, increasing the humidity levels. If you can’t place your ferns in this type of room, consider adding a room humidifier and try to mist the leaves every few days.
The only pest that tends to bother a fern are slugs.
If the ferns become too large for an area, consider dividing them and planting elsewhere.
How can I save money?
Consult with a few local nurseries in the area. It is going to be a lot easier to spot a healthier plant in person than purchase one online. Purchasing it locally will also allow you to avoid the shipping cost as well.
When purchasing a fern locally from a nursery, consider looking for coupons that are available in most publications such as newspapers or on their official website. This is a great way to save a certain percentage.
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