Caution: Ferns With Seed

Fern seeds start out green and turn red.  They are located on the underside of the fern. 

Red seed will create heat resulting in a wilted and damaged fern. A small amount, usually, is acceptable, but no more than one third of the fern. Buyers usually do not like to seed red seed or heavy seed. Too much seed and you risk rejection by the buyer.

Seed stage lasts for a short time. The seed then falls off creating a dusty film. The dust is actually spore that will create next year's crop. Remember, when picking ferns, leave one or two ferns per stool to insure a crop for next year.

Bunching Ferns: How Many in a Bunch?

Ferns are picked and made into "bunches". These bunches are made by picking one fern at a time with a "fern ring" worn on the third finger of the right hand, (left if that is your dominant hand). The ring fits between the first and second knuckle and should not ride down on the second knuckle. If the ring rides too low, it will create a sore area and make it extremely uncomfortable when trying to pick the fern.

The ferns should be approximately twenty-six inches, in all. This includes a two to three inch base that has been stripped of foliage. The length of the arm is a good measuring "stick" and can be used quickly when picking the fern. The ferns are picked and placed in the opposite hand, pinch with the thumb to maintain control the ferns preventing them from spreading out, a common problem. Hold the bunch of ferns approximately one third of the way up from the base.

• Number of Ferns per bunch: 48 to 52 (this allows for culling damaged ferns)
• Ferns are approximately 26 inches long
• Butt or base of the bunch, (handle) 2-3 inches stripped of foliage
• Handle tied firmly with string or rubber bands and trimmed later
• Bunch must be "straightened" to be prepared for sale
• Bunches need to be tanked, (placed in two to three inches of water) if required by buyer
• Price per bunch varies according to buyer and season's demand

Where to Find Sword Ferns

Sword Ferns  are a native plant species that grow in forests  from Alaska to California and east through the Rocky Mountain ranges (USDA 7-10). The Pacific Northwest supports an abundance of these evergreen forest plants. 

The Sword Fern is a beautiful and long-lived evergreen fern that grows from 2' to 4'. One plant, called "stools", can host up to twenty or more single ferns.

Evergreen forestry products, such as ferns, are used to supply the floral industry. Many of these natural products are used to adorn floral arrangements that are used during the most important times in our lives, (ie. weddings, funeral, events).