May 2013

MAY MEETING

The San Diego Fern Society will meet Thursday, May 16, 2013. The Society will meet at 7:30 pm in Casa del Prado Room 101, Balboa Park.

In May we welcome Michael Ludwig, a long time associate and friend of the San Diego Fern Society, to speak on Companion plants – if you just need to have some color. Michael's specialty is begonias and he has worked extensively to preserve materials from begonia experts by establishing the Kolz Begonia Research Center. Housed in his (former) garage, this collection has been growing for ten years and maintains private papers, books, photos and an herbarium for begonias.

Michael is part of several botanical organizations and is a past judge for our Fern Show. He keeps an active presence in the horticultural world. View further information on the website (kolzbegonia.com).

San Diego County Fair 2013

The Del Mar Fair will be open Saturday, June 8 through Thursday July 4, except Mondays during June. The Fern Society again will have a container exhibit and a medium-sized landscape exhibit. The fern landscape garden is in the same location as last year, with member Walt Meier next to us. This year the container display will be in a more prominent middle area of the garden show with a completely new structure. Both will feature ferns appropriate for San Diego area gardens.

Our county fair effort has both financial and promotional value to the San Diego Fern Society. We need landscape design ideas and implementation from our members and friends. By participating in our displays, you can show your plants to the thousands of people who come to the fair.

The Flower and Garden Show has taken the theme "Arcades of Color" to complement the 2013 fair theme, "Game On." We are ready to showcase our creativity with ferns as we build an artistic garden.

The Fern Society plans to arrange larger features and trees in advance. For display, please bring your ferns by 10 am on Saturday June 1. Groom plants in advance and prepare a tag with plant name and your name (to be hidden in the container) so your plants can come back to you after the fair. There are places for a dozen hanging ferns in the container exhibit.

A sign up sheet will be available at the May meeting for watering during the month-long fair. It is important that we maintain the exhibits and care for our ferns. Take down is July 5, and you need to take your plants or make arrangements for their return.


NEWS AND NOTES
Memberships

A few members need to renew for 2013. $12.00 will pay for a single or a household membership in the San Diego Fern Society, covering your enrollment through December 2013. See Jay Amshey at the May meeting or mail to the address on page 6.

The Fern Society has an opening for another board member, someone to help with the club's planning and activities. Contact a current board member for information. Meetings are listed on page 6, on the first Tuesday of alternate months.

Refreshments

In May, refreshments will be provided by Jay Amshey and Kathie Russell.

Report on April Meeting

The San Diego Fern Society met April 18. We enjoyed photos and discussion of the Artistic Garden. Some local gardeners presented their ideas at San Diego Botanic Garden earlier this year, and local nurseries are filled with beautiful plants, containers and garden decor to help us beautify our own gardens and patios.

For further ideas, visit local gardens, the Balboa Park Botanical Building, the San Diego Zoo, and the San Diego County Fair. Then share what you learn with your fellow Fern Society friends. With this program we hope you are inspired to enjoy your ferns in an environment of beauty.

Davalias

In April we divided a large Davallia at the end of the Fern Society meeting, and provided cuttings for purchase. The mother plant was originally grown by Bob Halley and identified as Davallia stenolepis. A closer look at names shows that the currently preferred name may be Davallia mariesii var. stenolepis. For those who don't care for Latin names, you might like the Chinese name 台湾骨碎补.

This plant is native to Taiwan, South Korea, Ryuku Islands and China. The species plant Davallia mariesii is also found in Japan and is more cold hardy than variety stenolepis. In Taiwan this fern grows on rocks.

The fronds are pentagonal and 3-4 pinnatifid, growing to about 8 inches long. Rhizomes are covered with whitish tan to brown scales. Plants are evergreen or have only a short dormant period as they shed older fronds and the new ones grow out. A well-drained moist-dry mix or moss is suggested for planting.

Davallias are treasured ferns in cultivation. They display well in hanging baskets in conservatories and greenhouses. Davallias may also be planted over rocks or used as ground cover, showing off their "furry feet." In San Diego there are several species which may be grown outdoors in addition to Davallia mariesii var. stenolepis.

References:
1. Flora of Taiwan. (1980). Taipei: Epoch Pub.
2. Hoshizaki B. and Moran, R (2001). Fern growers manual.
Portland, OR:Timber Press.

Polypodiums for temperate gardens

Polypodium californicum is found in California, and also Baja California and Oaxaca, Mexico. In Oaxaca it is a high elevation plant on rocks, at around 10,000 feet. This population is far from the nearest location in Baja California. P. californicum is easily found in San Diego's coastal areas at Torrey Pines State Reserve and Sunset Cliffs. There, as should be obvious, it is growing near sea level. It is found among rocks. In the summer season fronds are generally brown and dry, and it is not usually cultivated in gardens. A named variety from nature, P. californicum 'Sarah Lyman' is grown for the nursery trade.


P. californicum 'Sarah Lyman', Leaning Pine Arboretum, San Luis Obispo CA.

Polypodium scouleri is the coastal polypody of the Pacific Northwest, growing southward to the central California coast. Walt Meier showed great photos to the club of this lovely little plant taken on his travels in Washington state. P. scouleri seems to always be found very near the ocean, practically in the salt spray. Members of the Fern Society have grown it in the past but plants have not lived very long here in San Diego. It is considered semi-hardy.

Polypodium glycyrrhiza is a small, hardy fern native to the Pacific coastal areas of North America from Alaska southward to California, and also Asia. Plants are usually found on trees in nature, especially big leaf maples. P. glycyrrhiza purchased from nurseries is suggested for basket culture, and will grow new fronds in late summer and remain green through the winter.

P. californicum and P. glycyrrhiza have hybridized in nature in California as P. calirhiza. This fertile hybrid is cultivated in gardens in moist-dry garden soil or mix with good drainage, and is summer dormant.

Another fertile hybrid is Polypodium hesperium, from P. amorphum found in Asia and P. glycyrrhiza. This hybrid is well established in the western US from Canada to Mexico. It grows on rock and is very hardy (cold tolerant).


P. glycyrrhiza showing over-wintered fronds; grown in San Diego County.

Polypodium vulgare is a common temperate climate polypody, growing naturally in Great Britain and Europe, as well as Asia. Martin Rickard, a British fern nurseryman, suggests that it is found in acidic places in nature but may tolerate garden conditions. He identifies numerous named cultivars of this plant. The similar plant Polypodium australe, also known as P. cambricum, has the above range with the addition of North Africa. It produces fronds in late summer through autumn and remains green throughout winter, even in Britain. Rickard identifies over thirty cultivars in his book Plantfinder's guide to garden ferns. These are not often found in the nursery trade in the United States.

P. australe var. 'Cambricum', showing several variations of finely cut attractive fronds, was identified in the seventeenth century in Wales and gained the common name Welsh polypody.


P. vulgare showing over-wintered fronds and a new frond emerging in center of plant, grown in San Diego County for several years. This plant has been given water but no other special care.

Polypodium guttatum was recently available at Walter Anderson Nursery in San Diego. Plants are considered semi-tender and should have well-drained moist-dry mix. This fern is native to several areas of Mexico. In San Diego it is producing new fronds in April and May.


P. guttatum, a recently purchased and planted garden plant showing both old and new growth. All photos: Kathie Russell.

Polypodium formosanum shows off interesting green rhizomes and seems to put out new fronds in late summer for San Diego gardeners. At the time of the August Fern Show it is often in a transition stage. This plant is attractive in a basket, and is considered semi-tender.

There are over a hundred species of Polypodium, mostly from tropical America.

References:

Mickel, J., & Beitel, J. M. (1988). Pteridophyte flora of Oaxaca, Mexico. Bronx, N.Y., U.S.A.: New York Botanical Garden.

• Hoshizaki, B. and Moran, R. (2001). Fern grower's manual. Portland, OR: Timber Press.
• Olsen, S. (2007). Encyclopedia of garden ferns. Portland, OR: Timber Press.
• Rickard, M. (2000). The plantfinder's guide to garden ferns. Newton Abbot, Devon: David & Charles.
• Hyde, H. A., Wade, A. E., & Harrison, S. G. (1978). Welsh ferns: Clubmosses, quillworts and horsetails : A descriptive handbook. Cardiff: National Museum of Wales.

• Hoshizaki, B. and Moran, R. (2001). Fern grower's manual. Portland, OR: Timber Press.
• Capon, B. (1990). Botany for gardeners. Portland, OR: Timber Press.

San Diego Fern Society Objects and Purposes

The San Diego Fern Society was formed
* to provide a source of information on ferns;
* to arrange for people to study ferns together;
* to encourage the use and enjoyment of ferns in gardens, patios, and the home.

The Society aims
* to encourage all horticultural activities by example, education, exhibits, and donations;
* to interest people in the beauty & satisfaction to be found in garden, patio and home living;
* to promote and stimulate interest in ferns;
* to encourage and develop culture of various types and varieties of ferns;
* to provide for the exchange and dissemination among Society members of information relating to culture of ferns.

Volume XXXVII, Number 5

APRIL MEETING

The San Diego Fern Society will meet Thursday, April 18, 2013. The Society will meet at 7:30 pm in Casa del Prado Room 101, Balboa Park.

For April we will learn about the Artistic Garden. Drawing from presentations at San Diego Botanic Garden (formerly Quail Gardens), field trips of Kathie and Amna around the county and some additional sources, we will view photos and consider ideas for our own gardens. We invite you to share your artistic gardening ideas as well.

There are many resources in San Diego County including public gardens, private gardens, excellent plant nurseries and many local artists. We have art and plant groups which meet in Balboa Park Casa del Prado. Spanish Village, the Botanical Building, the Japanese Friendship Garden and several art museums are nearby. With this program we hope to be inspired to enjoy our ferns in an environment of beauty.

Plant Table for April

The late Bob Halley grew many types of ferns, and divided and shared his plants with others. He planted a Davallia stenolepis which has been growing well in its container for years, but now is ready to be divided. Bring $2 cash to the April meeting for a start of this lovely fern.

San Diego County Fair 2013

The Del Mar Fair will be open Saturday, June 8 through Thursday July 4, except Mondays during June. The Fern Society again has reserved a container exhibit and a medium landscape exhibit. Our landscape garden is scheduled to be in the same location as last year, but the containers will be in a more prominent middle area of the garden show. Both will feature ferns appropriate for San Diego area gardens.

Our county fair effort has both financial and promotional value to the San Diego Fern Society. We will need landscape design ideas and implementation from our members. By participating in our displays, you can show your plants to the thousands of people who come to the fair.

The Flower and Garden Show has taken the theme "Arcades of Color" to complement the 2013 fair theme, "Game On." Bruce Barry attended the exhibitors meeting and we are ready to showcase our creativity with ferns as we build an artistic garden.

The Fern Society expects to prepare and arrange the larger features in the exhibits in advance and then set in the plants on Saturday June 1. Reserve these dates and plan to support our outreach at the fair. Groom your plants in advance and prepare a name tag with plant name and your name (to be hidden in the container) so your plants can come back to you after the fair.

We will need help with watering and maintaining the exhibits during the month-long fair. Take down of exhibits is July 5, and you will need to pick up your plants or make arrangements for their return.
NEWS AND NOTES

Memberships

A few members need to renew for 2013. $12.00 will pay for a single or a household membership in the San Diego Fern Society, covering your enrollment through December 2013. See Jay Amshey at the April meeting or mail to the address on page 6.

Refreshments

In April, refreshments will be provided by Walt Meier and Kathie Russell. There will be a clipboard at the meeting where you can sign up to bring goodies for the coming months of 2013.

Report on March Meeting

The San Diego Fern Society met on the fourth Thursday of the month, March 28, to accommodate a show for another club. The membership voted to approve the budget for 2013 for the Society, which was published in the March Fern World.

We then enjoyed a photo tour of the Anza-Borrego desert. In the Blair Valley area a couple of ferns were prevalent. These are small plants, growing next to or under rocks. They are tentatively identified as Cheilanthes parryi, the grayish, fuzzy fern, and Notholaena californica, which was a bright green color after the August rainfall. The photos show amazing plant survival, with ferns flourishing in the summer heat of 110 degrees. Wildflowers were blooming in August after rain. In the desert, Bob Charlton showed us some striking examples of desert art.

Report on March Gardener's Sale

The sale added over $100 to the Society treasury from surplus garden items donated or consigned. From the variety of plants, as well as plant stands, books and more, our attendees took home some "found" garden treasures from the March gardener's sale at budget prices. Creative reuse of garden items is a benefit to all.

Growing Selaginellaceae

Selaginella is a diverse genus of spore-forming plants with more than 700 species, mostly tropical. In various areas of the US, hardy species can be grown in gardens, especially temperate woodlands. The ornamental tropical and sub-tropical species need warmth, moist soil and humidity. Many of these small-formed plants have similar appearance and are easily misidentified in the horticultural trade.

Selaginellas have three basic growth forms. Some species grow in mats, resembling mosses. They have a creeping or low-trailing growth habit. Selaginella apoda, S. uncinata and S. kraussiana are sometimes available for sale. Other Selaginellas have a frond growth appearance, such as S. braunii. Then there are plants with rosette growth which curl up into a ball when dry, such as S. lepidophyla, known as the resurrection plant.

One species of Selaginella is often available in the nursery trade, including San Diego area nurseries. Selaginella kraussiana has been seen at the San Diego Fern Show and plant sales. There are several attractive cultivars with various shapes and colors of foliage. A native of Africa, it has naturalized in the US and elsewhere. Greenhouse cultivation is probably best in San Diego but plants have locally naturalized in coastal central California as well as many areas along the East Coast.

Some varieties of Selaginella are frequently found in local nurseries. Additionally, try
Black Jungle Terrarium Supply, Turners Falls MA (blackjungleterrariumsupply.com);
Casa Flora, Dallas TX (casaflora.com);
Plant Delights Nursery, Raleigh NC (plantdelights.com).

Reference:
Hoshizaki, B. and Moran, R. (2001). Fern grower's manual. Portland, OR: Timber Press.



Selaginella kraussiana cultivars are available from Black Jungle Terrarium Supply. (Above)
S. kraussiana aurea. (Below) S. kraussiana 'gold tips' showing pale gold new growth. Photo credits: www.blackjungleterrariumsupply.com.


Selaginella apoda, native to the eastern US, grows just an inch tall. Available from Plant Delights. Photo credit: www.plantdelights.com.

Selaginella stauntoniana, native to China, grows about 8 inches tall and is also available from Plant Delights. Photo credit: www.plantdelights.com.

Selaginellas in the Desert

Selaginella eremophila is found in the Anza-Borrego desert. It is low growing, somewhat flat, with much branched stems about four inches long.

Reference:
Grillos, S. (1966). Ferns and fern allies of California. Berkeley, CA: University of California Press.


Selaginella eremophila growing in rocks in Blair Valley, Anza-Borrego State Park. Plants in the park are protected. Photo taken in the month of March. Photo credit: Kathie Russell.
Shade Gardens

George Schenk considers shade gardening to be an art, a science and a delight. This former nurseryman developed his technique on his own property by transforming a "visual menace" of north facing brick wall and concrete into a green room, a retreat for rest and recreation.

George starts with the soil. In his situation he needed to dig out the hard bed, establish good drainage, then fill with soil containing compost. He recommends six inches of good soil, at least half organic matter, for most plantings and deeper for planting trees. Good soil and drainage are critical to a healthy shade garden.

The type of shade he recommends for a garden is often called dappled share. Very deep shade limits the plants which will grow. If you have visited dense forests, both tropical and temperate, you may notice that ferns are most abundant at the edges of the forest or in partially clear areas. Dense trees which darken the garden should be carefully pruned to open the area up to light. On the other hand, too many hours of sun, especially mid day, will not encourage a healthy shade garden. Shade from lath structures is very helpful in growing this type of garden in hot, arid climates.

Having gardened in Seattle, in New Zealand and in the Philippines, George Schenk has experience with varied climates and their appropriate plants. He has grown a couple hundred different kinds of ferns. His plantings seem to follow of pattern of always using ferns with other non-fern plants. He contributed numerous photos to Encyclopedia of Garden Ferns as well as writing sections of this book, so you can see his work (pp. 61,201,272,273, and more).

Planting a shade garden requires an artistic touch. Plants should have varied leaf forms and texture, and differing heights. For some of us, choosing the ferns we want comes first, then planting background and companion plants. However your garden may feature camellias, begonias, orchids and other of your favorite shade plants. You will want to consider the lighting, soil type, fertilization and water needs to encourage healthy groups of plants. Allow a space for yourself, a retreat with a chair or two for enjoying your little paradise.

Over time, pruning and removing or adding plants will most likely be necessary. Mulch may help with maintenance. If you enjoy your space, George says the chores will not seem like work and your shade garden will be a delight.

References:

San Diego Fern Society Objects and Purposes

The San Diego Fern Society was formed
* to provide a source of information on ferns;
* to arrange for people to study ferns together;
* to encourage the use and enjoyment of ferns in gardens, patios, and the home.

The Society aims
* to encourage all horticultural activities by example, education, exhibits, and donations;
* to interest people in the beauty & satisfaction to be found in garden, patio and home living;
* to promote and stimulate interest in ferns;
* to encourage and develop culture of various types and varieties of ferns;
* to provide for the exchange and dissemination among Society members of information relating to culture of ferns.

Volume XXXVII, Number 4

San Diego Fern Society Objects and Purposes

The San Diego Fern Society was formed
* to provide a source of information on ferns;
* to arrange for people to study ferns together;
* to encourage the use and enjoyment of ferns in gardens, patios, and the home.

The Society aims

* to encourage all horticultural activities by example, education, exhibits, and donations;
* to interest people in the beauty & satisfaction to be found in garden, patio and home living;
* to promote and stimulate interest in ferns;
* to encourage and develop culture of various types and varieties of ferns;
* to provide for the exchange and dissemination among Society members of information relating to culture of ferns.

Volume XXXVII, Number 3

San Diego Fern Society Objects and Purposes

The San Diego Fern Society was formed
* to provide a source of information on ferns;
* to arrange for people to study ferns together;
* to encourage the use and enjoyment of ferns in gardens, patios, and the home.

The Society aims
* to encourage all horticultural activities by example, education, exhibits, and donations;
* to interest people in the beauty & satisfaction to be found in garden, patio and home living;
* to promote and stimulate interest in ferns;
* to encourage and develop culture of various types and varieties of ferns;
* to provide for the exchange and dissemination among Society members of information relating to culture of ferns.

Volume XXXVII, Number 2

San Diego Fern Society Objects and Purposes

The San Diego Fern Society was formed
* to provide a source of information on ferns;
* to arrange for people to study ferns together;
* to encourage the use and enjoyment of ferns in gardens, patios, and the home.

The Society aims
* to encourage all horticultural activities by example, education, exhibits, and donations;
* to interest people in the beauty & satisfaction to be found in garden, patio and home living;
* to promote and stimulate interest in ferns;
* to encourage and develop culture of various types and varieties of ferns;
* to provide for the exchange and dissemination among Society members of information relating to culture of ferns.


Volume XXXVII, Number 1

Nominations for 2013
San Diego Fern Society Officers

President: Kathie Russell

1st Vice President and Secretary: Amna Cornett

2nd Vice President: open (shared board responsibility)

Treasurer: Jay Amshey

Board Members: Bruce Barry, Bob Charlton, Bill Ganger, Richard Lujan, Bill Mous

Past President: Don Callard remains on the Board


Victorian Times and the Fern Craze

The Victorian Era is considered to be the period of British history while Queen Victoria reigned, 1837 to 1901. A time of (mostly) peace, Britain enjoyed improved health and prosperity, and its population doubled. Some customs of the Victorian Era are evident in the US today. Albert, Prince Consort, is popularly credited with bringing the Christmas tree to England. Sending of Christmas cards began in the mid 1800s, and also pulling apart Christmas crackers at dinners and parties. Even the law designating December 26 as a holiday in Britain expanded Christmas from religious observance only into extended times of "conviviality" with family and friends.

Interest in natural history became popular among the general public. Hobbies developed, such as birding and collecting butterflies or seashells. Amateurs collected and pressed wild flowers and ferns into albums. With the transportation option of trains, people went out to the countryside and dug up fern plants for their homes. The Victorian Fern Craze caused some areas to be decimated of their ferns. Eventually nurserymen began propagating ferns rather than just collecting them, so many varieties of ferns continued to be available, although much damage was done.

Fern designs were popular in decorative items during the Victorian era. A fern motif was common on garden art and furniture, glass and china, and wallpaper. Extensive garden ferneries were established on the estates of the wealthy. Since plants from around the world had arrived in England, glass conservatories were built to house ferns, orange trees and other tropicals.

Persons of modest means were able to grow ferns in the Wardian case, a decorative glass enclosed box or dome. Industrial and heating pollution from use of coal was an issue in cities of Britain. The cases protected plants and conserved humidity. The Wardian case was the forerunner of terrarium fern growing.



Woodcut of Struthiopteris germanica, now known as Matteucia struthiopteris, in the Victorian era book Ferns: British and exotic. Illustration prepared from fronds gathered from the Fernery and Highfield House (Reference 3).

The Victorian era was characterized by interest in natural sciences. Britain's exploration and trade around the world brought numbers of ferns to England. Living tropical ferns were grown in glass conservatories and studied. Scientists in research institutions pressed fern specimens for botanic collections, a pattern which continues to the present. Many fern books were printed, showing the extensive study and demand for fern information. The era brought increased options for propagation, culture and hybridization of ferns. These activities of over a hundred years ago established a base for expanded horticultural and botanical study of ferns in our time.


The Glasshouse at Botanic Gardens in Southport, England. This structure was demolished during 1930s or 1940s. Photo from the 1920s; Unknown photographer; public domain.

References:

San Diego Fern Society Objects and Purposes

The San Diego Fern Society was formed

* to provide a source of information on ferns;
* to arrange for people to study ferns together;
* to encourage the use and enjoyment of ferns in gardens, patios, and the home.

The Society aims

* to encourage all horticultural activities by example, education, exhibits, and donations;
* to interest people in the beauty & satisfaction to be found in garden, patio and home living;
* to promote and stimulate interest in ferns;
* to encourage and develop culture of various types and varieties of ferns;
* to provide for the exchange and dissemination among Society members of information relating to culture of ferns.




Volume XXXVI, Number 12

Nominations for 2013 San Diego Fern Society Officers

President: Kathie Russell
1st Vice President and Secretary: Amna Cornett
2nd Vice President: open (shared board responsibility)
Treasurer: Jay Amshey
Board Members: Bruce Barry, Bob Charlton, Bill Ganger, Richard Lujan, Bill Mous

Past President: Don Callard remains on the Board

About The Huntington

The Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens is one of the world’s great cultural, research, and educational centers. A private, nonprofit institution, it was founded in 1919 by Henry E. Huntington, a businessman who built a financial empire that included railroad companies, utilities, and real estate holdings in Southern California.

Mr Huntington was also a man of vision with a special interest in books, art, and gardens. During his lifetime, he amassed the core of one of the finest research libraries in the world, established a splendid art collection, and created an array of botanical gardens with plants from around the globe. These three distinct facets of The Huntington are linked by research, education, and beauty.

Brief Description of the Gardens at The Huntington

In 1903 Henry Huntington purchased the San Marino Ranch, a working ranch at that time with citrus groves, nut and fruit orchards, alfalfa crops, a small herd of cows, and poultry. His superintendent William Hertrich was instrumental in developing the various plant collections of the gardens. The property, originally nearly 600 acres, today consists of 207 acres, of which about 120 are landscaped and open to visitors. More than 14,000 different varieties of plants are showcased in more than a dozen garden areas.

Huntington and Hertrich worked together to mold the working ranch into a botanical garden of rare and exotic plants. They searched local nurseries and visited other plant collectors to find unique specimens, and imported plants from many parts of the world to experiment with their cultivation in Southern California. The Lily Ponds were developed first. Huntington and Hertrich worked together on the Palm, Desert, and Japanese gardens and planned the North Vista and the landscaping around the mansion.

Today The Huntington features more than a dozen garden areas, specializing in camellias, herbs, roses, subtropicals and Australian plants. There is a Chinese garden and a garden for children, a conservatory and a Shakespeare garden. A new project, the Huntington Ranch, draws from the history of the estate to provide a place for research and demonstration of sustainable urban agriculture.

For further information see http://www.huntington.org/ and also the article on page 5.Naming the Mother Fern

Asplenium ferns were studied at the September Fern Society meeting. We looked at some of the birds nest types of Aspleniums to determine their botanical classification, as labels from the nursery trade are often not botanically correct. Similarly, botanists in New Zealand studying Asplenium bulbiferum have determined that these plants are mostly labeled incorrectly in the nursery trade. Amna took note of a newsletter article from the Fern Society of Victoria, Australia. There, author Barry White provided an explanation. The plant in the nursery trade known as mother fern and labeled Asplenium bulbiferum is actually a sterile hybrid of A. bulbiferum ssp bulbiferum, growing only in New Zealand, and another Asplenium from Norfolk Island, A. dimorphum. (A different subspecies, A. bulbiferum ssp gracillimum, grows naturally in Australia.)

The New Zealand botanists have named and published the hybrid as Asplenium x lucrosum, and it is suggested that the hybridization occurred in England in the early 1800s. The parent plants are recorded at Kew for 1820 and 1831. In 1858, Lowe wrote that A. bulbiferum was commonly grown in nearly all greenhouses in Britain, in his work Ferns: British and exotic. This set of eight volumes is in the Botanical Foundation library in Casa del Prado, room 104. In an unpublished thesis of 1954, D.L. Knowlton, in taxonomic study of Aspleniums, stated that all the plants in cultivation of this hybrid were descended from one plant (reported in reference 2).

This hybrid Asplenium x lucrosum is only propagated from the bulbils along the fronds and is not grown from spore. The spores are irregular in size and shape, and considered infertile. In Australia and New Zealand the mother fern is commonly called hen and chicks fern. This fern is widely sold in the US as well as around the world.


Fern presumed to be Asplenium x lucrosum, Fern Canyon, San Diego Zoo. Photo credit: Kathie Russell.

References:

San Diego Fern Society Objects and Purposes

The San Diego Fern Society was formed
* to provide a source of information on ferns;
* to arrange for people to study ferns together;
* to encourage the use and enjoyment of ferns in gardens, patios, and the home.

The Society aims
* to encourage all horticultural activities by example, education, exhibits, and donations;
* to interest people in the beauty & satisfaction to be found in garden, patio and home living;
* to promote and stimulate interest in ferns;
* to encourage and develop culture of various types and varieties of ferns;
* to provide for the exchange and dissemination among Society members of information relating to culture of ferns.


Volume XXXVI, Number 11

Meeting Date Change in October

For the month of October, the Fern Society will meet on the second Thursday of the month, October 11. Occasionally our meeting date is shifted to accommodate the shows of other groups using Room 101

NEWS AND NOTES
Memberships

$12.00 will pay for a single or a household membership in the San Diego Fern Society, covering your enrollment through December 2013. See Bill Ganger or mail to the address on page 6.

Refreshments

October refreshments will be provided by Don Callard and Gary Bourne.

Report on September Meeting

September brought us a program on Asplenium ferns, facilitated by Amna Cornett and Kathie Russell. We viewed photos depicting the variety of the genus, then looked at live plants brought by members, especially observing the many birds nest forms. One birds nest Asplenium with three growing crowns was divided in a live demonstration. Then, using cut fronds of various birds nest Aspleniums, we tried our hand at identifying them, using drawings and descriptions to help us sort out A. nidus, A. australasicum and A. antiquum. As a door prize, each person attending received a free fern.

In Memoriam: Ed Moore

The San Diego Fern Society recently lost our oldest member, Ed Moore. Ed has been active in the San Diego Fern Society for many years and continued to enjoy his garden until the end of his life at age 97. Through his years of travels and gardening he acquired many species and varieties of ferns as well as botanically significant collections of other plants, notably cycads. Ed was gracious about sharing his garden and plants, and will be missed.

Nominations for 2013

A Nominations Committee is forming to nominate the officers and board members for the coming year 2013. Members interested in serving on the committee should contact Kathie Russell at the October meeting, or email in advance to: sandiegofernsociety@gmail.com

Also, suggestions for officer and board positions may be given to the committee. The nominations will be presented at the November general meeting, and elections are held at the annual meeting of the San Diego Fern Society in December.


Ferns which grow along the continental United States coast

About 400 species of ferns and lycophytes are listed for North America north of Mexico. The coastal lands of the US are mostly temperate in climate as the oceans moderate extremes of heat and cold. The ferns discussed here are a very small sample of those growing in coastal areas of the continental US.

Atheryrium filix-femina, the lady fern, is found in moist woods, swamps and stream banks, both coastal and inland. It is terrestrial and winter-dormant. Four varieties are recognized and their natural habitats include most of the coastlines of the United States. Lady ferns grow in the eastern interior of the US and the coast from Maine southward to Florida and along the Gulf Coast, and also in the Western US, from southern California (San Gabriel mountains and Santa Cruz Island) northward to Alaska. The lady fern is considered by many to be an ideal garden fern for moist, shady, cool locations. This fern does not grow naturally in San Diego County, which lacks those ideal conditions. Thus it is less likely for successful gardening here.


Atheryrium filix-femina. Photo credit: US Forest Service.
Polystichum acrostichoides, the Christmas fern, grows in eastern US forests and rocky hillsides. Staying green year-round, it has different sterile and fertile frond forms. It can be found both inland and in the coastal areas from Maine south to Florida and along the Gulf Coast to Texas, growing two or three feet tall. It is not found on the West Coast.

Polystichum munitum, also green all year, is the common sword fern of the West Coast. It is found from Santa Cruz Island and Monterey County northward to Alaska. Commonly seen in coastal forests, it forms large clumps up to five feet tall or more. A similar plant with fronds up to two feet high, P. imbricans, formerly considered a variety of P. munitum, grows naturally in San Diego County in the Laguna and Palomar mountain areas and also along the central California coast from Santa Barbara County and Santa Rosa Island northward. P. munitum is available from nurseries.

Adiantum pedatum is the five-fingered maidenhair of eastern US deciduous woodlands. The similar plant, A. aleuticum, primarily grows in the western US, in moist wooded ravines and rocky areas including coastal cliffs. In California it is found in the San Bernardino and San Gabriel mountains, Santa
Cruz Island and northward.

Two types of Woodwardias, W. areolata and W. virginica, grow in coastal New England southward to the Gulf Coast in acidic bogs. These are smaller plants than Woodwardia fimbriata, which is primarily in California, often coastal such as in redwood forests. It is native to San Diego County growing near streams, and is in some SDFS private collections.

Osmunda regalis L. var. spectabilis, known as the royal fern, is large and almost tree-like with fronds sometimes extending four to six feet. Fronds are dimorphic; fertile fronds have contracted fertile pinnae covered in green (turning to brown) sporangia at the end of the frond. This dramatic plant is another fern growing naturally from Maine to Florida to Texas, both in coastal and inland areas of the eastern US.


Osmunda regalis L. var. spectabilis. Photo credit: Merel R. Black, University of Wisconsin Stevens Point.

Osmunda cinnamomea, the cinnamon fern, is
found in bogs and stream banks in the eastern US. Fertile stalks are erect with the broad sterile fronds arching around up to four feet tall. Osmundas thrive in wet, acidic conditions but do not grow naturally in the West.

Thelypteris palustris, known as the marsh fern, grows in wet woods and swamps as its common name suggests, throughout the eastern US. A couple of additional species of Thelypteris grow in the eastern US. Several species of Thelypteris are found in the Everglades in Florida where it is warm.

In the West, mostly in wet shaded canyons around Santa Barbara, the fern Thelypteris puberula var. sonorensis grows. Another Thelypteris is found in northern California northward to Washington, T. nevadensis, the Nevada marsh fern. It is a plant of wet areas near springs and streams, both coastal and in the Sierra Nevada mountains, but not in the state of Nevada.
Many species of Dryopteris are found in the US. Dryopteris intermedia and D. carthusiana both grow naturally from Virginia northwards along the East Coast, and also inland in the eastern US.

Dryopteris arguta, sometimes called the coastal wood fern, is found along the West Coast from San Diego County northward to Washington. Dryopteris expansa, the spreading wood fern, grows from the Central California coast northward to Alaska and also in eastern Canada.


Dryopteris arguta, Irish Hills Preserve, Los Osos Valley CA. Photo credit: Kathie Russell.

The wild Boston fern, Nephrolepis exaltata,
is found naturally in Everglades National Park and peninsular Florida. The fronds may be four feet long. Its habitat is swamps and wet places, and is usually terrestrial but also grows on trees and logs.

The large plant Blechnum serrulatum, the swamp fern, grows up to six feet tall in shady Florida swamps. It has toothed leaves and is generally terrestrial, but can also grow epiphytically in areas of brackish water.

Other Blechnums in the US are the smaller B. occidentale in the Gulf Coast states and B. spicant, known as the deer fern, in the Pacific Northwest. Note that most cultivated garden plants called Blechnum occidentale in horticulture are actually the similar B. appendiculatum. Blechnum spicant is available in the nursery trade but does not tolerate alkaline conditions and is not suggested for San Diego gardens.

Found in Everglades National Park, Cheiroglossa palmata (older name: Ophioglossum palmatum L.), also called the hand fern, grows on trees like a staghorn fern but does not transplant. It is endangered in Florida, destroyed by fires and perhaps draining of land.


Cheiroglossa palmata, South Florida. Photo credit: NC Orchid, licensed under Creative Commons.

The Polypodium ferns in the US grow naturally in both the East and the West. P. virginianum is found from Virginia northward into Canada and throughout the eastern US but not the Gulf Coast. It is considered abundant, growing on acliffs and rocky slopes. A very similar fern is P. appalachianum, with a smaller range along the East Coast.

Polypodium glycyrrhiza and P. scouleri are found along the West Coast. The Polypodies are a fern family with numerous hybrids and variant forms.

Polypodium californicum is fairly abundant locally at Torrey Pines State Preserve, and northward through California. The cultivar 'Sarah Lyman' is available in the nursery trade and is suggested for garden use.


Polypodium californicum, Sunset Cliffs, San Diego CA. Photo credit: Kathie Russell.


Polypodium californicum 'Sarah Lyman,' Leaning Pine Arboretum, Cal Poly San Luis Obispo CA. Photo credit: Kathie Russell.

Pentagramma triangularis is an epipetric and terrestrial fern from northern Baja California northward to British Columbia, Canada. Subspecies viscosa is found in coastal areas of San Diego County and southern California including the Channel Islands. Look for it in Balboa Park down the hill east of Park Boulevard.



Pentagramma triangularis subsp. viscosa, Balboa Park, San Diego CA. Photo credit: Kathie Russell.

At the October meeting of the San Diego Fern Society we will view photos of ferns and learn about their habitats along the coastal areas of Southeast Alaska.

References

• 1. Flora of North America: North of Mexico (Vol. 2). (1993). New York: Oxford University Press.
• 2. Flora of North America. (n.d.). Retrieved from www.efloras.org. October 3, 2012.
• 3. Lellinger, D. B. (1985). A field manual of the ferns & fern-allies of the United States & Canada. Washington, D.C.: Smithsonian Institution Press.
• 4. Munz, P. A. (1965). A California Flora. Berkeley: University of California Press.
• 5. Avery, G. N., & Loope, L. L. (1983). Plants of Everglades National Park (Rep. No. TRT-574, National Park Service). Retrieved October 3, 2012.
• 6. Tryon, A. F., & Moran, R. C. (1997). The ferns and allied plants of New England. Lincoln, MA: Center for Biological Conservation, Massachusetts Audubon Society.
• 7. Rickard, M. (2002). The Plantfinder's guide to garden ferns. Portland, OR: Timber Press.
• 8. Hoshizaki, B. and Moran, R. (2001). Fern grower's manual. Portland, OR: Timber Press.

San Diego Fern Society Objects and Purposes

The San Diego Fern Society was formed
* to provide a source of information on ferns;
* to arrange for people to study ferns together;
* to encourage the use and enjoyment of ferns in gardens, patios, and the home.

The Society aims
* to encourage all horticultural activities by example, education, exhibits, and donations;
* to interest people in the beauty & satisfaction to be found in garden, patio and home living;
* to promote and stimulate interest in ferns;
* to encourage and develop culture of various types and varieties of ferns;
* to provide for the exchange and dissemination among Society members of information relating to culture of ferns.

Volume XXXVI, Number 10

San Diego Fern Society Objects and Purposes

The San Diego Fern Society was formed
* to provide a source of information on ferns;
* to arrange for people to study ferns together;
* to encourage the use and enjoyment of ferns in gardens, patios, and the home.

The Society aims
* to encourage all horticultural activities by example, education, exhibits, and donations;
* to interest people in the beauty & satisfaction to be found in garden, patio and home living;
* to promote and stimulate interest in ferns;
* to encourage and develop culture of various types and varieties of ferns;
* to provide for the exchange and dissemination among Society members of information relating to culture of ferns.


Volume XXXVI, Number 9

San Diego Fern Society Objects and Purposes

The San Diego Fern Society was formed

* to provide a source of information on ferns;
* to arrange for people to study ferns together;
* to encourage the use and enjoyment of ferns in gardens, patios, and the home.

The Society aims
* to encourage all horticultural activities by example, education, exhibits, and donations;
* to interest people in the beauty & satisfaction to be found in garden, patio and home living;
* to promote and stimulate interest in ferns;
* to encourage and develop culture of various types and varieties of ferns;
* to provide for the exchange and dissemination among Society members of information relating to culture of ferns.

• Select ferns for the show, plants that you have owned and cared for during the past three months. These ferns might be rare and unusual, or just lovely or interesting ferns, perhaps your own favorites. This year our show area is smaller than in the past, so consider sharing your small but beautifully presented ferns, to inspire the public to grow ferns even in limited space such as window areas, condo balconies or small yards.
• Determine the plant names, using books and help from other fern growers. It is best to establish the plant name before old fertile fronds are removed.
• You may transplant a fern into a new clean container of similar size if the old container has become unsightly.
• Pay a little extra attention to these plants, and certainly water adequately for summer.
• Check for pests and disease, using the least toxic controls as needed. Infested plants will be disqualified from the show. Thrip is sometimes an issue in summer, and you must remove insect damaged fronds ahead of time. We do not want infested plants in the show room at all.
• Keep your show plants in the best locations for the remaining weeks where you can watch over them.

1. Woodwardias –
the chain ferns

The genus Woodwardia consists of about 14 species of medium to large ferns, named after British botanist Thomas Woodward. These plants, in the Blechnaceae (Blechnum) family, are mostly native to the north temperate zones, North America south to Costa Rica, the Mediterranean area of Europe and eastern Asia. The common name, chain ferns, apparently reflects the appearance of chains of sori on fertile fronds.


Woodwardia fimbriata showing chains of sori

In the recent San Diego County Fair, our exhibits included Woodwardia fimbriata. This California native is found along the Pacific Coast from Baja California north into British Columbia, including the Sierra Nevada mountains. In San Diego County, botanical specimens were collected by Daniel Cleveland in the nineteenth century in the upper Sweetwater Valley and in Julian. (See historical note page 5). More recent specimens come from Palomar Mountain, Heise County Park, Cleveland National Forest and Cuyamaca Rancho State Park.

Woodwardia fimbriata is also found in the Sierras, reported by Robert Rodin along the Kawea River in Sequoia National Park and several places in Yosemite including Happy Isles in the valley. W. fimbriata is most abundant in coastal redwood forests and remains green and beautiful through the year, often with fronds as long as eight feet. Its common name is giant chain fern.


Woodwardia fimbriata, about 6 feet tall, in Cowell Redwoods State Park, Santa Cruz County, CA

W. fimbriata tolerates snow cover and light frost, and thus cold is not an issue in San Diego gardens. It does require water, so even though it is a native plant, some summer watering is necessary to maintain its beautiful appearance. In nature, look for it in shady areas along streams and seeps.

In addition to W. fimbriata, W. areolata and W. virginica are native to the US. Both are suggested for acidic soils which indicates they would be challenging to grow in San Diego. Woodwardia areolata is common on the Atlantic coastal plain and inland areas of the eastern US, growing in wet woodlands and acidic bogs. It is cold tolerant but deciduous, with fronds about two feet long. Fertile fronds grow later in the season, and are narrower and distinctive.

Woodwardia virginica has a similar but larger range, from Canada to Burmuda along the eastern US and as far inland as Illinois and Michigan. In bogs and marshes it can flourish in full sun, and will spread when planted in wet gardens. Young fronds are golden in color, extending up to three feet in length, and are deciduous.

Other species of interest are those from Asia. Woodwardia orientalis is another large plant, useful in the garden and providing winter color – bright pink new fronds. W. orientalis is native to Japan, China, the Himalayas, Taiwan and Philippines. It is semi-hardy and easy to grow in San Diego, with fronds to about five feet in length, spreading outward. Mature fronds produce little plantlets on the upper surface, which may be carefully rooted. The late Bob Halley did this, sharing his little plants with fern friends.


Woodwardia orientalis new frond growth in winter, Balboa Park Botanical Building

Another Asian fern is Woodwardia unigemmata, a favorite of Sue Olsen. Its native areas are similar to W. orientalis but it is slightly more cold tolerant. Bulbils form on the tip of fronds, which may grow into new plants. With young fronds a bright red color, it is popular in conservatories, and grows slightly larger than W. orientalis.

From southern Europe, Woodwardia radicans is a smaller plant and also semi-hardy. It also develops bulbils on the tip of fronds. Mary Z has been growing this plant, and in the ground it has spread in her garden from the tip growth.


Woodwardia radicans
All photo credits: Kathie Russell
--------------------
References:

San Diego Fern Society Objects and Purposes

The San Diego Fern Society was formed
* to provide a source of information on ferns;
* to arrange for people to study ferns together;
* to encourage the use and enjoyment of ferns in gardens, patios, and the home.

The Society aims
* to encourage all horticultural activities by example, education, exhibits, and donations;
* to interest people in the beauty & satisfaction to be found in garden, patio and home living;
* to promote and stimulate interest in ferns;
* to encourage and develop culture of various types and varieties of ferns;
* to provide for the exchange and dissemination among Society members of information relating to culture of ferns.

Report on May Meeting

In May, George Plaisted shared his findings on fertilizers available at a local nursery, and what they contain. We learned about the numbers identifying fertilizer ingredients, and what is needed for plant nutrition. There are so many products, some of which are labeled for a specific type of plant. With a basic understanding of fertilizer ingredients, gardeners can make informed choices on nutritional supplements and not spend excessively on purchasing so many products. Fern growers generally use fertilizer products at reduced strength and only during the growing season.

San Diego County Fair

The Del Mar Fair opened June 8 and continues through Wednesday, July 4, 2012, except Mondays during June. You might skip the chocolate covered bacon and red velvet funnel cakes, and just enjoy the gardens. We again have a container exhibit and a small landscape exhibit, and both feature ferns appropriate for San Diego area gardens. The container exhibit has an amazing collection of ferns grown in San Diego. You ought to be impressed with this display, even if some are your own plants on loan to our fair exhibit.

The Flower and Garden Show has taken the theme "Cosmic Spaces" to complement the 2012 fair theme, "Out of this World." Our landscape exhibit has a small educational panel showing the fern fiddlehead spiral through photos. The equiangular spiral, known as spira mirabilis, is found naturally in various plants, shells and, yes, spiral galaxies. More information on spira mirabilis is given on page 4 of this newsletter.

Our county fair effort has both financial and promotional value to the San Diego Fern Society. Surveys of guests at the fair consistently verify that the garden show is a highlight, and so we showcase ferns to thousands of people of all ages who come to the fair each year.

Take down of exhibits is July 5.

Looking ahead

For July we will have a change of meeting venue! Amna has arranged with Dean Turney to meet at his house for a potluck. There will be a grill, so you may bring something to grill as well as a dish to share. We will meet at 6:30 to allow daylight enjoyment of Dean and Susan's garden paradise. Dean has grown camellias, begonias, ferns, palms and various interesting plants in his Encinitas jungle. We appreciate his loan of large plants for the fair displays over the years, and his support of the clubs.

Watch for further information and directions in the July Fern World. Ride sharing may be arranged.
New show location for this year

The 2012 San Diego Fern Show will be on Saturday and Sunday, August 18-19. This year only we will hold our show and sale in Room 104, across the patio from our usual location. The August regular meeting will be in Room 101 on Thursday evening August 16. Then, on Friday morning we will set up Room 104 and Friday afternoon we check in plants. Anyone, society member or not, may enter ferns in the show.

Our annual Show and Sale requires the teamwork of all of our members and friends. There is a place for everyone at the Fern Show. Save these dates, invite your friends and make plans to join us.

San Diego Fern Society Show and Sale
August 18 - 19, 2012
Casa del Prado Room 104, Balboa Park, San Diego
Saturday noon to 5pm ~ Sunday 10am to 4pm

Although we are merely moved across the patio, this does mean a few changes to our usual pattern. The board voted to make the 2012 show an all display show. This means there will not be competitive judging. Our location in room 104 has space limitations and we will be challenged as we prepare a beautiful and educational show for the public. As always, you are encouraged to bring ferns you have owned and grown during the three months prior to the show. They must be groomed and free of pests and pest damage, including free from ants. Containers and hanging displays must be clean and tidy, appropriately displaying the plant.

We plan to have a sales area and you may sell your own plants on consignment. It is especially important to have only clean and pest free plants in the sales area. Let a board member know if you would like to sell plants, and plan to help during the show.

What to do in June

Now is the time to prepare your plants for the upcoming August Fern Show. Choose some ferns you have owned and cared for during the past three months. These potential show ferns could be rare and unusual, or just lovely or interesting ferns, perhaps your own favorites. We want the public to see what we grow, including the beautiful ferns that need just ordinary care.

Determine the plant names, using books and help from other fern growers. It is best to establish the plant name before old fertile fronds are removed. Learn about any special care needed, and pay a little extra attention to these plants. You may want to fertilize lightly, and certainly water adequately for summer. Check for pests and disease, using the least toxic controls as needed. Infested plants will be disqualified from the show. Remove damaged fronds and thin out old fronds to accommodate new growth. Keep your show plants in the best locations where you can watch over them until August.
Spira Mirabilis


This Wikimedia Commons image is from the user Chris 73 and is freely available at //commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:
NautilusCutawayLogarithmicSpiral.jpg under the creative commons cc-by-sa 3.0 license.


Spira mirabilis, the equiangular spiral, is found in nature in the shells of Nautilus,
ammonites and foraminifera. It also shows up in certain floral inflorescences, where the
flower branches repeatedly to one side at a constant angle, such as in heliotropes,
borages and forget-me-nots. The spiral becomes a conical helix in the curvature of the
ram's horn and plant tendril.
Robbin Moran explains this as unequal growth of the inner and outer surfaces. This
occurs regardless of the material–whether shell, bone or plant tissue. In fern
fiddleheads the cells on the outer surface of the spiral elongate more that those inside.
The fiddlehead uncoils when the inner surface cells elongate, and the frond straightens.




Fern fiddlehead in Panama
photo credit: Tiffany Russell




Blechnum gibbum
photo credit: Brian Russell



Sphaeropteris cooperi
photo credit: Brian Russell

--------------------
Reference:
Moran, R. (2004). A natural history of ferns. Portland, OR: Timber Press


Loss of a fern friend

Fern lovers are saddened to learn that Barbara Joe Hoshizaki died recently. Many in the San Diego Fern Society have known her over the years. Her book, Fern Grower's Manual, co-authored with Robbin Moran, is our constant reference source for fern information, identification and plant care. One member recalls that when she came to our show a few years back, she supported the show plant registration by cutting and folding the plant label tags, as well as helping with fern identification. We were impressed by her helpfulness with these small details as well as her extensive fern knowledge. In addition to many professional accomplishments, Barbara Joe Hoshizaki was an all-around great person.

San Diego Fern Society Officers

President
Kathie Russell klrkath@yahoo.com
1st Vice President and Secretary
Amna Cornett amnacarol@yahoo.com
2nd Vice President
Gary Bourne
Treasurer
Bill Ganger wganger@sbcglobal.net

Directors

Past President
Don Callard dcallard@san.rr.com
Board Members:
Bruce Barry
Bob Charlton kwyjibo@san.rr.com
Richard Lujan
Bill Mous

Website

www.sandiegofernsociety.com
Webmaster: Bob Charlton kwyjibo@san.rr.com

Membership

The San Diego Fern Society is now taking dues for 2012 memberships. Bring $12 cash or check (payable to San Diego Fern Society) to a meeting or mail to:
San Diego Fern Society
2829 30th Street
San Diego, CA 92104

San Diego Fern Society Objects and Purposes

The San Diego Fern Society was formed
* to provide a source of information on ferns;
* to arrange for people to study ferns together;
* to encourage the use and enjoyment of ferns in gardens, patios, and the home.

The Society aims
* to encourage all horticultural activities by example, education, exhibits, and donations;
* to interest people in the beauty & satisfaction to be found in garden, patio and home living;
* to promote and stimulate interest in ferns;
* to encourage and develop culture of various types and varieties of ferns;
* to provide for the exchange and dissemination among Society members of information relating to the culture of ferns.

Volume XXXVI, Number 6

2012 LAIFS Fern and Exotic Plant Show and Sale
Saturday June 9, 9 am - 4:30 pm
Sunday June 10, 9 am - 4 pm

 Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
301 N Baldwin Ave, Arcadia, CA
(1/2 mile south of the 210 Freeway)

Report on April Meeting

In April, Kathie Russell narrated her photos of Washington Park Arboretum in Seattle. This 230 acre garden, one of the most important tree collections in North America, showcases over 10,000 trees and plants. Throughout the trees are beautiful rhododendrons and ferns. Members of the Hardy Fern Foundation maintain a planted patio area to demonstrate fern gardening choices for the Pacific Northwest. Additionally, hardy ferns are intermixed with mature trees, water features, woodland areas and the Pacific Connections Garden, all alongside beautiful Lake Washington.

San Diego County Fair

The Del Mar Fair will be open Friday, June 8 through Wednesday, July 4, 2012, except Mondays during June. We again have reserved a container exhibit and a small landscape exhibit, and both will feature ferns appropriate for San Diego area gardens. Our county fair effort has both financial and promotional value to the San Diego Fern Society. We need landscape design ideas and implementation from our members. By participating in our displays, you can show your plants to the thousands of people who come to the fair.

The Flower and Garden Show has taken the theme "Cosmic Spaces" to complement the 2012 fair theme, "Out of this World." Unique and rare plants are encouraged for exhibits this year. Watching how garden designs and plants develop into cosmic spaces promises to be entertaining, to say the least.

The Fern Society plans to prepare and arrange the larger features in the exhibits on Saturday, May 26 and then set in the plants on Saturday, June 2. Come around 9 am each Saturday, and support our outreach at the fair. Take down of exhibits is July 5.
Coming in August

The 2012 San Diego Fern Show will be on Saturday and Sunday, August 18-19. This year only we will hold our show and sale in Room 104, across the patio from our usual location. The August regular meeting will be in Room 101 on Thursday evening August 16. Then, on Friday morning we will set up Room 104 and Friday afternoon we check in plants for judging. Anyone, society member or not, may enter ferns in the show.

Our annual Show and Sale requires the teamwork of all of our members and friends. There is a place for everyone at the Fern Show. Save these dates, invite your friends and make plans to join us.

San Diego Fern Society Show and Sale
August 18 - 19, 2012
Casa del Prado Room 104, Balboa Park, San Diego
Saturday noon to 5pm ~ Sunday 10am to 4pm

Soils and Planting Mixes

With George's presentation on fertilizers this month, it may be helpful to understand the various soils and planting media used by fernists and gardeners in general. Inorganic soil material is sand, silt and clay. Sand has the largest particles, and clay the smallest (less than 0.002 mm). Loam is a mixture of sand, silt and clay. Humus, the decomposed remains of plants and animals, improves loam for growing plants.

Sand drains quickly and does not hold nutrients. It requires more frequent watering and fertilizing than other soils.

Clay soil, although retaining water, packs down so tightly that it is difficult for roots to penetrate. The lack of air spaces means that clay soil can get water-logged, not allowing needed oxygen around roots. To improve clay garden soil, add a liberal amount of organic matter, and also some gritty material (sand/gravel) and gypsum. If 50% clay and 50% organic matter is used, this will be suitable for gardening only about three years. Thus, every 6 to 12 months, organic matter should be added as topper. Better yet, dig out ferns, add organic matter, perlite and/or gypsum, and replant the ferns.

Two suggested mixes for ferns (Hoshizaki):

San Diego Fern Society Objects and Purposes

The San Diego Fern Society was formed
* to provide a source of information on ferns;
* to arrange for people to study ferns together;
* to encourage the use and enjoyment of ferns in gardens, patios, and the home.

The Society aims
* to encourage all horticultural activities by example, education, exhibits, and donations;
* to interest people in the beauty & satisfaction to be found in garden, patio and home living;
* to promote and stimulate interest in ferns;
* to encourage and develop culture of various types and varieties of ferns;
* to provide for the exchange and dissemination among Society members of information relating to the culture of ferns.


Volume XXXVI, Number 5

San Diego Fern Society Objects and Purposes

The San Diego Fern Society was formed
* to provide a source of information on ferns;
* to arrange for people to study ferns together;
* to encourage the use and enjoyment of ferns in gardens, patios, and the home.

The Society aims
* to encourage all horticultural activities by example, education, exhibits, and donations;
* to interest people in the beauty & satisfaction to be found in garden, patio and home living;
* to promote and stimulate interest in ferns;
* to encourage and develop culture of various types and varieties of ferns;
* to provide for the exchange and dissemination among Society members of information relating to the culture of ferns.

San Diego Fern Society Objects and Purposes

The San Diego Fern Society was formed
* to provide a source of information on ferns;
* to arrange for people to study ferns together;
* to encourage the use and enjoyment of ferns in gardens, patios, and the home.

The Society aims
* to encourage all horticultural activities by example, education, exhibits, and donations;
* to interest people in the beauty & satisfaction to be found in garden, patio and home living;
* to promote and stimulate interest in ferns;
* to encourage and develop culture of various types and varieties of ferns;
* to provide for the exchange and dissemination among Society members of information relating to the culture of ferns.

Volume XXXVI, Number 3

Calendar for 2012

Fern Society Meeting Dates

January 19
February 16
March 8 (second Thursday)
April 19
May 17
June 21
July 19
August 16
September 20
October 11 (second Thursday)
November 15
December 20


This year most meetings will be on our usual third Thursday. Only two months have changes. In March and October we will meet on the second Thursday. We will be reminding you of these two changes in the Fern World and at meetings. Mark your calendar so that you can arrange to attend each meeting of 2012.


Officers
President Kathie Russell klrkath@yahoo.com
1st Vice Pres Amna Cornett amnacarol@yahoo.com
2nd Vice Pres Gary Bourne
Treasurer Bill Ganger wganger@sbcglobal.net

Directors
Past President Don Callard dcallard@san.rr.com
Board Members Bruce Barry
Bob Charlton kwyjibo@san.rr.com
Richard Lujan
Bill Mous

Webmaster
Bob Charlton kwyjibo@san.rr.com

Membership
The San Diego Fern Society is now taking dues for 2012
memberships. Bring $12 cash or check (payable to San Diego Fern Society) to a meeting or mail to:

San Diego Fern Society Membership Chairman

2829 30th Street
San Diego, CA 92104

Website
www.sandiegofernsociety.com

The purpose of the San Diego Fern Society
is to promote an interest in ferns
and the enjoyment of them.
The Fern Society provides information
about the various kinds of ferns, their culture and care,
and sources—both commercial and
by member exchange—for obtaining ferns.


Merry Christmas and Happy New Year

Heap high the farmer’s wintry hoard!
Heap high the golden corn!
No richer gift has Autumn poured From out her lavish horn.
John Greenleaf Whittier

Ferns A to Z

We have come to the letter “Q,” for the “Quirky and Quaint” ferns that are unusual or unconventional. We will look at Aquatic Ferns, Filmy ferns and Xerophytic ferns. An “R” and an “S” fern will round out this month’s A to Z.

Aquatic Ferns (Water Ferns)

Azolla (Mosquito Fern) and Salvinia are the easiest aquatic ferns to cultivate. They have simple plant structures, with leaves arranged in whorls around a floating or horizontal rhizome. Azolla bears roots on its rhizome; Salvinia does not. Azolla has small (1/32 inch), bi-lobed, crowded leaves. In a terrarium it may densely pile up upon itself. Outdoors these floating ferns can smother out other plants in a pond unless controlled.

Bolbitis, found in Africa and Asia, has 4 aquatic species out of 85. Bolbitis has erect, pinnate leaves evenly spaced along creeping rhizomes which attach to rocks or fallen logs. B. heudelottii grows slowly at first, then takes off and needs to be annually divided. Water movement helps prevent algae infestation.

Ceratopteris has 4 species that grow floating or anchored in shallow water. They have rounded to lobed leaves and may put out plantlets along the leaf margins. Ball-shaped sporangia may develop into young plants as the leaves mature, die, and fall into the water. C. thalictroides is the most common, now naturalized in Florida. They prefer clean water, and do not mind very hot water in a greenhouse. Like other aquatic ferns, Ceratopteris need to be thinned periodically.

Equisetum (Horsetail) has two aquatic species native in northern temperate zones. Reminiscent of bamboo, these large plants have erect jointed stems with inconspicuous, scale-like leaves. A rounded cone at the top of the stem bears the sporangia. Too large for most home aquariums, Equisetum makes a good plant for an ornamental pond.

Isoetes (Quillwort) and Pilularia are uncommon aquatic ferns found in temperate areas. Isoetes has rounded leaves arising from an attractive central rosette. Pilularia is a small creeping fern with simple, undivided leaves. Its young fronds emerge from tight fiddleheads typical of other ferns. Both are difficult to have in cultivation.

Marsilea (Water Clover) The 65 species of Marsillea in tropical and subtropical areas of the world. Marsilea typically has four leaflets resembling clover leaves, though submersed forms often show only one leaflet. Most require an emergent period to produce sporocarps. M. drummondii is a hardy species, will tolerate hard water, and is currently available. Curtright uses M. quadrifolia and M. crenata around the margins of natural bottomed ponds, because they make a dense mat as far away as 6 feet from the pond when the soil stays damp. Regnellidium, a similar aquatic plant, has bifid leaves, needing cooler conditions (and interestingly, is the only non-flowering plant that produces latex!). Both Regnellidium and Marsilea need thinning out occasionally.

Microsorum originates in SE Asia . Only some of the 60 species are aquatic. They have simple leaves, three to five lobed. M. pteropus is the most widely sold, with the common name Java Fern. Some have tall (up to 18”), leaves, broad or narrow. A smaller variety has short (6”) narrow leaves which are darker in color. Tropica (in Denmark) has registered an extremely decorative variety named M. Tropica, which grows long extensions along the leaf margins. Permission from Tropica is required to reproduce M. Tropicana commercially. All Microsorums are beautiful, hardy, low-maintenance aquarium plants.

Semi-aquatic Ferns will grow in wet conditions or standing water temporarily but do not like to be always submerged. These include some of the Dryopteris, Adiantum, Onoclea, Thelypteris, Athyrium, Woodwardia, Osmunda, Leptopteris and Todea. Such semi-aquatic ferns would do well by a garden pond or in acidic, loamy soil with lots of water.

Xerophytic Ferns

Xerophytic Ferns (Xerics) are ferns that live in very arid places. Though difficult to classify, they are found on every continent where ferns are found, except Antarctica. Some are found in the true desert; others may be found on cliffs or open hillsides; but all survive where there is bright light and usually very little rainfall. An outline in Flora of North America (web address below) lists some 40 genera worldwide in the family Pteridaceae. The largest group is Cheilanthes, with about 150 species. Notholaena, Pellaea, Astrolepis, Argyrochosma, and Pentagramma are also familiar xeric genera (there are others in the U.S. and other countries---too many to list.)
How Do Xerics Survive in Dry Places? Here is a brief list of physical adaptations: 1) thickened skin; 2) hairs, scales, wax on fronds, stipes and rhizomes to control humidity & reflect away light; 3) finely dissected or narrow pinnules; 4) long roots; 5) rapid growth; 6) early reproductive maturity; 7) spores that remain viable over long, dry periods; 8) plants can curl up with spores outside; 9) controlled dehydration---xerics can increase or decrease transpiration; 10) apogamy---ability to reproduce asexually, without fertilization.
Growing Xerics in a Garden. True xeric ferns are seldom available in local nurseries, but may be ordered from Fancy Fronds or Foliage Gardens nurseries in Seattle. Try trading xeric “starts” with fern friends. Conditions Needed. Xerics prefer locations with partial sun (near a rock is ideal) and good drainage but not long-term drought. Use volcanic rock or coarse sand mixed with gravel---any mix which will drain quickly. Though xerics have adapted to arid conditions they are happier with regular watering; just have good run-off from the sub-strata---no standing water on roots. If planted in containers, use a deeper pot with more drainage holes. Fertilize sparingly. Determine xeric fern needs: acid or basic soil (Use reference books. Online you can see the full text of Flora of North America, vol.2, Pteridophytes...1993, and read more about the xerophytic ferns at http://hua.huh.harvard.edu/FNA/)

Filmy Ferns

Filmy Ferns (“filmies”) are small to medium members of the genre Hymenophyllacea, in two main branches: Hymenophyllum and Trichomanes (@ 300 species each). Filmies live especially in tropical cloud forests of Malaysia, Hawaii, New Zealand, Australia, Indonesia, coastal British Columbia, and tropical America. Here their thin leaves can always stay moist, since their pennae are only one cell thick (except for the veining). Colors vary: yellow-green to dark green or greyish. Filmy ferns generally live on moist hosts: mosses and liverworts on tree trunks, dripping rock faces, or wet ground in deep shade with plenty of moisture. The Cardiomanes reniforme is a beautiful New Zealand filmy fern which has kidney-shaped leaves with sori around the margins. In Panama Robbin Moran saw a Trichomanes elegans, whose brilliant, metallic blue-green iridescent leaves seem to help the plant absorb more red light for photosynthesis in the shadowy forest. [www.sandiegofernsociety.com has more about Filmy Ferns. Select the July 2009 issue of Fern World.]

Finally, one “R” and one “S” fern

Rumohra adiantiformis (Leather Fern) An easily grown fern from the temperate to semi-tropical regions of Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Polynesia, and South America. It is medium sized, with broad, dark green, thick, triangular 3-pinnate fronds. The Cape form from Africa is the one commonly grown here. And a cultivar, R. adiantiformis 'Santa Rosa.' Rumohra fronds are widely used florists because they last after cutting.
Stenochlaena Stenochlaena (five species) have long rhizomes which scramble or climb on vegetation or trees. These dimorphic ferns have one pinnate sterile fronds with many pairs of close-set, toothed pinnae. The long, narrow fertile pinnules are covered with sori on their undersides, causing the pinnae to contract and swirl in feather-like fashion. The most common species, S. tenuifolia, is a fast, strong grower here. Stenochlaena like sunlight and water, and often are seen growing in swamps.
References:
“Aquatic Ferns,” Curtright, David. Fern World, May, 1993.
“Aquatic Horticulture,” Randall, Karen. Fern World, July, 2004.
Fern Grower’s Manual, Hoshizaki and Moran, 2001.
Fern World Articles, B. & H. Halley, 1992, 2004, 2010.


San Diego Fern Society Officers
Officers
President Kathie Russell klrkath@yahoo.com
1st Vice Pres. (Position Open)
2nd Vice Pres. Gary Bourne (regular mail)
Treasurer Bill Ganger wganger@sbcglobal.net
Secretary Amna Cornett amnacarol@yahoo.com

Directors
Past President Don Callard dcallard@san.rr.com
Board Member Bruce Barry (regular mail)
Board Member Sherry Worthen
Board Mem. Bob Charlton kwyjibo@san.rr.com

Fern World Editor Sherry Worthen sherryworthen@san.rr.com
Webmaster Thomas Charlton kwyjibo@san.rr.com

Membership
Amna Cornett is our membership chair. Please pay your 2012 dues ($12.00 individual or
family) at a SDFS meeting or mail a check (payable to the San Diego Fern Society) to:
San Diego Fern Society Membership Chairman
3905 Ibis Street, San Diego, CA 92103

Addresses
E-mail: sandiegofernsociety@gmail.com
Website: www.sandiegofernsociety.com

Volume XXXV, Number 11

The purpose of the San Diego Fern Society
is to promote an interest in ferns
and the enjoyment of them.
The Fern Society provides information
about the various kinds of ferns, their culture and care,
and sources—both commercial and
by member exchange—for obtaining ferns.

And all but cry with color!

Edna St. Vincent Millay

Ferns A to Z

Our review of ferns has come to the letter “P, ” and there are many ferns in this group. Some may be in your garden.

Pellaea Cliff Brake. These mainly small ferns are commonly called cliff brakes because of their propensity for growing among the rocks and cliffs. There are about 80 species of the genus worldwide. They are adapted to survive in dry climates (xerophytic). The fronds are usually fishbone-like in appearance and the new fronds resemble a shepherd’s crook. Usually the stalks (stipes) are hard and polished, with a generally polished appearance to the leaves. The most commonly seen member of this species is P. rotundifolia, the Button Fern, a good plant for small spaces as it only grows 12-18 inches tall. It is often dark green and has round, slightly leathery “button-like” leaves attached to slender stems. P. falcata, the Australian Brake Fern, is also available here.

Pellaea andromedifolia, the Coffee Fern, P. atropurpurea, the Purple Rock Brake, and P. mucronata, the Bird’s-Foot Fern, are natives to California, Baja, and Central America. They can be found growing among noncalcareous (no calcium) rocks. P. cordifolia has unique tan stipes and rachises, as does P. ovata, another native to the Southwest, Texas and the West Indies. The stipes and rachises of P.ovata have a distinctive zigzag appearance. Both P. cordifolia (with round or heart-shaped leaves) and P. ovata (with oval shaped leaves) have fronds that can become quite long and may tangle unless given support. Pellaeas grow best in a well-drained soil with medium to high light. Be careful not to over water, since Pellaeas prefer to be on the dry side of moist.

Phlebodium Rabbit’s-foot fern, Bear’s-paw fern, so named for its long, furry-looking rhizomes. Medium to large ferns closely related to Polypodiums, native to tropical America, with frond colors ranging between gray-green to blue-green. Seen often in hanging baskets. P. aureum has deeply lobed long narrow fronds and irregular rows of sori. Cultivars such as P.aureum ‘Mayi,’ ‘Man-daianum,’ ‘Cristatum,’ and ‘Ekstrand’ have ruffled or fringed leaves. P. pseudoaureum has stiffer fronds and has its sori in neat rows, one along each side of the costa in the center of the blade. P. pseudoaureum ‘Mexican Tasseled’ has frond tips like can-can skirts.

Phyllitis Hart’s Tongue Fern. Native to North America, Europe and Asia. Named from phyllos, Greek for leaf or fern. Of the 5 species, only the European Phyllitis scolopendrium is common. This small, distinctive fern has simple, entire blades with longish, pencil lead-shaped, paired sori. P. scolopendrium has many cultivars with frilly, crested, wavy or irregular margins. In the 1800s a British grower had identified 445! (Hoshizaki) P. scolopedrium ‘Kaye’s Lancerate’ has dramatic, deeply serrated, ruffled edges. These ferns prefer low moist to dry soil (may get root-rot), and will do well under low light.

Pilularia (Pillwort), is an Aquatic fern. Pentagramma and Pityro-gramma are Xerophytic ferns. These groups of ferns are scheduled to be described in the November issue. Tune in next month!

Platycerium Staghorn Fern, Elkhorn Fern. Yes, these are definitely in the “P” group of ferns and a favorite of many. That is why our January meeting each year is Platycerium night with a program on this genus. And each January the Fern World features Platys. To learn more, go to www.sandiegofernsociety.com (click on previous Fern World issues for Januarys, or choose Platyceriums on the plant list) and read to your heart’s content, staghorn lovers!

Polypodium “. . . probably the most widely known ferns.” (Hoshizaki) There are around 125 species, mainly growing in the American tropics. Polypodium means ‘many-footed,” referring to the rhizomes that characterize this genus. Most cultivated Polypodiums are epiphytes and grow best with good drainage and ventilation. Many of the Polypodium species are tender or semi-tender, and must be grown indoors or in greenhouses, unless the climate is mild.

Botanists often attempt to separate the many Polypodiums into homogeneous subgroups. Hoshizaki lists around 15 genera for most Polypodies, including Campyloneurum, Goniophlebium, Lecanopteris, Goniophlebium, Microgramma, Microsorum, Niphidium, Pleopeltis,Selliguea, and Polypodium. Another breakdown of three groups is used to further identify placement of ferns within the Polypodium genus: the Vulgare group (free veins, one row of sori, et.al.), the Loriceum group (rarely simple blades, scaleless surfaces, et.al.), and the Scaly-Polypody group. She adds that fertile fronds and a microscope are often still necessary for accurate identification. [I’ll say!]

Here are few of the most commonly grown Polypodiums. A very attractive one is the Polypodium formosanum. From whitish rhizomes the 12-14” light grey-green pinnatifid fronds gracefully rise up. A small fern, the P. glycyrrhiza grows in Asia and coastal western U.S. The rhizome has a distinctive licorice taste. P. bombycinum, rather epiphytic in the wild, has branched rhizomes from which grow narrow lanceolate fronds, thickly scaled on the lower surface. P. menisciifolium is a medium sized fern with one pinnate fronds. It is easy to grow. P. polypodioides, the Resurrection Fern, has slightly sunken sori which appear raised on the upper frond. In the southern U.S. this fern is allied with the live oak. In dry weather the fronds will curl up and appear dead until moisture revives them. P. virginianum is a small Polypody with thin leathery fronds. It is native to eastern N. America. A polypody with many cultivars is the P. vulgare, a native of Europe. Its fronds are flat, and the pinnae are usually all equal in length.

Most species of Polypodium prefer indirect light. The best soil for Polypodiums is a loose humusy mix. Some growers will plant some species in pure peat moss or sphagnum moss. Those plants in this group which have creeping rhizomes should be repotted when their rhizomes creep all the way out of the pot or tub or are getting overgrown within the pot. By planting Polypodiums in a basket or hapu pot where the rhizomes can root as they go along, you can avoid having to replant as often.

Polystichum Shield Fern. Hardy, leathery, small to medium sized ferns, which grow in a crown or cluster of foliage above an erect rhizome. The 175 species are spread worldwide in temperate growing regions. Some species grow plantlets on the stalk that can be grown into new plants. P.tsus-simense is a lovely dwarf species that comes from China. Its two-pinnate, dark green, triangularly shaped fronds have an airy, graceful appearance. P. setosum is a semi-hardy species from Japan that has a variety of cultivars with fronds from droopy to plume-like to overlapping & congested. P. setiferum (Soft Shield Fern) is very common. Its new croziers are covered with glistening white scales which brown as the frond matures. Cultivars of this fern have tasseled, crested, or congested fronds.

Polystichum dudleyi is a native to California. The two pinnate leaves have serrated edges and scales on the undersurfaces. It is slow-growing and prefers a cool, moist climate. Several other species are found in northern California, such as P. scopulinum (Western Holly Fern), P. lonchitis (Northern Holly Fern), and P. munitum (Western Sword Fern). P. munitum is a good plant to grow in deep shade.

Polystichums like moist to dry-moist growing conditions, meaning they need a well-drained soil. They generally grow best in medium light conditions, such as open shade.

Pteris Brake Ferns. These ferns range from small to large. The @250 species are found in tropical/subtropical areas of the world. Some species have naturalized in the Southeast. Pteris are less frilly and grow in clusters. The are often used as table ferns.

Pteris cretica (Cretan Brake) and its numerous cultivars are common here. In Crete it grows on shady limestone walls in high humidity and rain. Some common cultivars are Pteris cretica ‘Albolineata,’ ‘Parkeri,’ and ‘Wilsonii.’ Pteris tremula is also sold commonly here, It is 2-4 pinnate-pinnatifid, and is the finely-divided exception to most Pteris species. Pteris quadriaurita (Silver Brake) is large, with a silver band down the center of each frond. It likes moisture and open shade. P. vittata (Ladder Brake) is a fast-growing, dark green fern that will tolerate high light (not complete shade), & slightly dry conditions. New fronds bend back like a shepherd’s crook. The commonly cultivated varieties of Pteris adapt to a wide range of soils. Pteris ferns like to be kept moist and prefer diffused light in a 50-72 degree environment.

Pteridium Bracken. A medium to large fern common N.America. It grows in open woods and thickets, damp or dry humus or sandy soil. The blades are 3-4 pinnate or pinnate-pinnatifid and deep green, on long creeping hairy rhizomes. Can be invasive, so not usually grown as an ornamental.

Pyrrosia Japanese Felt Fern. These are epiphytic ferns from the southeast Asian tropics, Pacifica and New Zealand. There are several defining characteristics of this genus: simple, entire fronds (though some are heavily lobed); star-shaped hairs, particularly on the back of the laminae; slender, creeping rhizomes; and leathery or fleshy blades. The sori have no indusia (coverings), the spores are yellowish red, and the underneath side of the frond has a reddish cast. There are about 50 species of Pyrrosias, many easy to grow.

Four Pyrrosia species should be in or added to your collection. Pyrrosia lingua is very easy to grow and hardy. It has simple, oblong or elliptic-lanceolate fronds. The branching slender, creeping rhizomes make a full-foliaged plant. Grows well in a basket and makes a good ground cover underneath trees. Cultivars have a variety of leaf shapes. The most familiar cultivar is P. lingua ‘Cristata’ with fan-shaped frond tips many times forked Pyrrosia hastata (spear-like) or Pyrrosia tricuspis (three points, for its frond shape). This plant has a short, creeping rhizome with stipes close together. Hardy in a rock garden or a basket. P. polydactylis (many fingers) has fronds with many lobes palmately to pedately arranged, varying in number from 5 to 9. It is a native to Taiwan, and grows best under tropical conditions. It has a short creeping rhizome. Pyrrosia dielsii (silver feet fern) has a long creeping rhizome, much branched, with thick fronds, simple or occasionally lobed, covered with silvery stellate hairs. The plant is dimorphic and the fertile fronds are longer, with dark brown spore. This Pyrrosia loves to climb, so provide a growing pole.

Pyrrosias are not fast growers, and the P. lingua cultivars are generally even slower. In their native habitat Pyrrosias often grow on roadside trees enduring drought, low humidity, warm temperatures, and bright sun. Their drought-resistant character is due to a layer of water-holding cells in the leaves and the insulating effect of the felty layer of star-shaped hairs covering the under and often the upper surface of the leaves. Strong to medium indirect light is best for the cultivated species. Feed occasionally with organic fertilizers such as bone meal, steer manure, or liquid fertilizer. With proper temperature and light, Pyrrosias do not require any special care beyond good drainage and avoidance of over watering.

Encyclopedia of Ferns, Jones, 1987.
Ferns to Know and Grow , Foster, 1971.
Fern Grower’s Manual, Hoshizaki and Moran, 2001.
Fern World Articles, B. & H. Halley, 1986, ’87,’89, 2002.












San Diego Fern Society Officers
Officers
President Kathie Russell klrkath@yahoo.com
1st Vice Pres. (Position Open)
2nd Vice Pres. Gary Bourne (regular mail)
Treasurer Bill Ganger wganger@sbcglobal.net
Secretary Amna Cornett amnacarol@yahoo.com

Directors
Past President Don Callard dcallard@san.rr.com
Board Member Bruce Barry (regular mail)
Board Member Sherry Worthen
Board Mem. Bob Charlton kwyjibo@san.rr.com

Fern World Editor Sherry Worthen sherryworthen@san.rr.com
Webmaster Bob Charlton kwyjibo@san.rr.com

Membership
Amna Cornett is our membership chair. Please pay your 2011 dues ($8 individual or $10
family) at a SDFS meeting or mail a check (payable to the San Diego Fern Society) to:
San Diego Fern Society Membership Chairman
3905 Ibis Street, San Diego, CA 92103

Addresses
E-mail: sandiegofernsociety@gmail.com
Website: www.sandiegofernsociety.com

Volume XXXV, Number 10

The purpose of the San Diego Fern Society
is to promote an interest in ferns
and the enjoyment of them.
The Fern Society provides information
about the various kinds of ferns, their culture and care,
and sources—both commercial and
by member exchange—for obtaining ferns.

Autumn in the Garden Tour & Market, a tour of 8 home gardens in Point Loma
October 1, 2011 Sales benefit S.D. Master Gardener Association
(Charles Robinson, fern society member and friend, is a master gardener
and teaches about staghorn ferns in community outreaches.)
Advance-purchase Tickets $20.
www.mastergardenerssandiego.org

It Was a Successful Fern Society Show! Some 2011 Fern Show Statistics:

16 Exhibitors and one first time exhibitor brought in a total of 162 plants. Around 12 new types of fern had never before been entered in a San Diego show. The room was artistically set up, with features of interest to draw in park visitors. Many visitors asked questions and expressed admiration or amazement at the variety of ferns on view.

For a second year both show and sale were held in the same room, and again visitors and workers felt that it was a good combination. One guest (this will be hard to believe, I know) drove all the way from the Dallas,Texas, area to see the show and purchase unusual ferns at our sale. That is dedication! Some of our members were very gracious and welcoming to him---thanks to you special people.

Our many volunteers made all this possible, working long hours and making many trips bringing plants back and forth from home. We also express special appreciation to our out-of-town judges and entrants. Many thanks to all who participated in any way. And our astonished accolades to Don Callard, who earned a sweep of all three major awards this year. Now that is the Ultimate Green Thumb!

2011 SAN DIEGO FERN SHOW DIVISION WINNERS LIST
DIVISION 1 Bill Ganger Microgramma squamulosa
DIVISION 2 Don Callard Lecanopteris mirabilis
DIVISION 3 Gary Bourne Psilotum nudum
DIVISION 4 (Close spiral, short, erect, under 1 ft. stems) None
DIVISION 5 Don Callard Polystichum tagawanum
DIVISION 6 (Tree fern like, fronds < 1 ft,) None
DIVISION 7 Bob Charlton Davallia pyxidata
DIVISION 8 Gary Bourne Microsorum pteropus
DIVISION 9 Tanya Bourne Astrolepis sinnuata
DIVISION 10 Tanya Bourne Phyllitis scolopendrium (scolly)
DIVISION 11 Gary Bourne Nephrolepis exaltata ‘Suzie Wong’
DIVISION 12 Tanya Bourne Blechnum brasiliense
DIVISION 13 Bob Charlton Phlebodium pseudoaureum ‘Mexican Tasselled’
DIVISION 14 Don Callard Elaphoglossum herminieri
DIVISION 15 Don Callard Drynaria quercifolia
DIVISION 16 Richard Lujan Asplenium goudeyi
DIVISION 17 Don Callard Nephrolepis pendula
DIVISION 18 (Tree ferns w/3 ft. + fronds) None
DIVISION 19 Don Callard Platycerium veitchii
DIVISION 20 Yolanda Lujan Platycerium hillii
DIVISION 21 Don Callard Platycerium hybrid/cultivar
DIVISION 22 Amna Cornett  Terrarium Multiple Species
DIVISION 23 Don Callard Lycopodium species
DIVISION 24 Gary Bourne Multi-plant Display, varieties in one genus---Asplenium
DIVISION 25 Gary Bourne Salvinia minima
DIVISION 60 (Previous Division Winners) Don Callard Platycerium veitchii

2011 SAN DIEGO FERN SHOW SPECIAL AWARDS

Robin Halley Memorial Award for Best Fern (other than a platycerium)
--- Don Callard Elaphoglossum herminieri

Shirley Callard Memorial Award for Best Playtcerium
--- Don Callard Platycerium C. Alford cultivar
Elizabeth M. Pelz Memorial Award for Most Unusual
--- Don Callard Drynaria quercifolia


A QUOTE FOR 2011 TECHNOLOGY AND GARDENS

A well-rounded mind requires two “speeds.” There needs to be
time for efficient data collection and time for open-ended reflection,
time to operate the machine and time to sit idly in the garden. We
need to work in Google’s ‘world of numbers,’ but we also need to
be able to retreat to Sleepy Hollow. The problem today is that we’re
losing our ability to strike a balance between those two very different
states of mind. Mentally we’re in perpetual locomotion.
Nicholas Carr, The Shallows: What the Internet is Doing to Our Brains

Ferns A to Z

Ferns whose names begin with M-N-O are covered this month. They range from tall to small, some with broad leaves, others with fine foliage, both well-known and obscure ferns. Again we can only cover a few of the many varieties, so consult a fern book for more.

Matteuccia. A native to North America, Europe and Asia. Matteuccia struthiopteris, the Ostrich fern, is the most commonly known of the three species. This is a huge, feathery fern with one-pinnate-pinnatifid sterile fronds to five feet. Fertile fronds are shorter, with leathery, erect pinnae that are rolled around the sori like cigars. It spreads by under- ground rhizomes with large bunches of feathery fronds at intervals. The fiddleheads are edible. A deciduous fern, difficult in our area, needing loamy, acid soil.

Microgramma are small epiphytic ferns native to Central & South America, often grown here in terrariums or greenhouses. The slender rhizomes of M. lycopodioides branch freely, creeping over trees in masses of bright, simple green fronds up to 8” in length. Sori form in rows between the midrib and pinnae margins. They do best in warm, moist, airy places. M. vaccinifolia is a 2” dimorphic S.American native growing slowly along on scaly white rhizomes. Simple round sterile fronds are complimented by taller, slender little fertile fronds. One with especially beautiful fronds is the Microgramma squam-ulosa. It has prominent dark green veins etching the lighter green pinnules in patterns resembling stained glass window designs.

Microlepia are medium to large terrestrial clumping ferns native to India, Japan, the Philippines and China. They are somewhat hairy, rapidly growing ferns which like shade and well-drained, loamy soil, and will tolerate some dryness. Microlepia strigosa, Lace Fern, grows well here and make a good thick background for a garden because the fronds are much divided and lacy-looking. They reach up to 40” tall.

Microsorum ferns are medium to large epiphytes. Some 50 species are native to subtropical Africa, SE Asia, Northern Australia and the Pacific Islands. Microsorum muscifolium is a tree climber with 2-3 foot strap-like fronds, prominent black veins and orange/yellow spore. Other species like M. vieillardii and M. punctatum ‘Grandiceps,’ with up to 16” fronds, creep along the ground or up trees on fat rhizomes. They grow easily here in baskets, and are happiest in greenhouses or humid areas (smaller ones in terrariums).

Nephrolepis. A commonly known fern with 30 species worldwide, 5 of them grown in the U.S. Most Nephrolepis species grow in colonies as the thin rhizomes, called stolons, spread. They can fill a pot quickly with their roots and stolons, but with water and fertilizer they can survive being pot-bound. And it is better to leave the slower-growing cultivars underpotted.

Nephrolepis cordifolia, the Sword Fern, has pinnae extending straight out from the stipes forming linear, narrow fronds. The pinnae fall off easily when the frond is old or dry. N. cordifolia will take full sun and will grow almost anywhere: in trees, on rocks, in the ground and in nearly any tropical or temperate climates. It is popular in this area, used as ground cover, garden fillers or decorative borders along walls, and may reach 30" tall. The feature that separates it from other members of the genus is the formation of underground nodes for storing food and water, which allows them to grow in some very sunny situations. There are a number of named cultivars of N. cordifolia, including ‘Plumosa’, ‘'Petticoat,’ and 'Kimberly Queen.' One cultivar, N. cordifolia‘Duffii,’ has small, button-shaped pinnae and crested frond tips.

Nephrolepis exaltata, Boston Fern, is a well-known variety, originally found in Florida, Mexico, Brazil, and the West Indies. It is distinguishable by its pointed pinnae that often curve slightly upward. The fronds range from 10” to 3 feet. This species is extremely variable, with over 150 varieties/cultivars which have been named in the U.S. & abroad. The first mutant to be noticed by the public was actually found in Philadelphia but had been shipped to Boston and became the famous ‘Boston Fern.’ All later mutants arose from this form. They became very popular in Victorian times. Some of the more recognized cultivars are ‘Fluffy Ruffles,’ ‘Smithii,’ ‘Rooseveltii,’ ‘Whitmanii,’ ‘Irish Lace,’ and ‘Suzy Wong.’

One problem with the N. exaltata species is that many cultivars have a tendency to regress back to a parent form that is less unique. Most of the fancy cultivars are sterile and must be propagated from the runners or stolons, or by tissue culture. Although these various forms are usually grown in pots or baskets because they tend to have a drooping habit, the fern is really terrestrial.

Some other popular varieties of Nephrolepis include N. falcata ‘Furcans,’ the Fishtail Fern, named for the forked pinnules that resemble fish tails. Recently the N. biserrata, Giant Sword Fern, has become popular in North America. Its 6-12” fronds can reach 7 feet in length. It likes lots of water, and is often found in the moist woods of southern Florida. Because most Nephrolepis ferns have no physical reserves in their root and rhizome structure to withstand temperature shock, they are not considered ‘hardy ferns’ since they can only withstand temperatures down to freezing for a brief time. Many delicate species are grown indoors (or seasonally brought in) for this reason.
Niphidium crassifolium (formerly called Polypodium crassifolium). Mexico, Central and South America. This large epiphyte has heavy, erect simple fronds which look similar to those of the Bird’s nest ferns. However, Niphidium fronds are darker green, irregularly spaced, and can reach a length of 60 in. There are often white dots on the upper surface of the fronds (which are actually calcium deposits from within). Niphidium crassifolium, the most commonly seen of the 10 species, does well in Southern California and can be grown in baskets or large pots.

Onoclea sensibilis (Sensitive Fern, Bead Fern). There is only one species of Onoclea, a native of North America and North Asia. A medium-sized fern with once to twice pinnate light green fronds with serrated edges. The fertile fronds are compressed to look like bunches of tiny grapes, from which it gets the name Bead Fern. Onoclea likes wet soil and in it will stand quite a bit of sun. In Southern California they are deciduous, coming up early in the spring and they are finished with their season by August.

Onychium japonicum Japanese Claw Fern, Carrot Fern. Original habitats are in North India, Thailand, Japan, China. These are small to medium-sized terrestrial clumping ferns with finely-divided fronds. Here in the U.S. the Onychiums are usually grown in terrariums.

Osmunda. These are tall, dramatic ferns originating in Asia. Their petioles are oval-shaped on two pinnate fronds that grow in whorls. A very ancient fern, seen in fossils, the Osmundas have specialized fertile fronds that bear green spores which have no indusial coverings. On O. cinnamomea the tall bushy fertile fronds are a russet, orange/cinnamon color. O. regalis, the Royal Fern, is quite spectacular (reaching to 10 feet) with oblong petioles. It bears its sporangia on the upper third of some fronds. O.japonica is smaller, bushier, and has red new growth. Its fiddleheads are edible and are sold in Japanese markets. O. regalis v. brasiliensis, a South American species, is smaller and less deciduous than the other species and grows more easily here.

Encyclopedia of Garden Ferns, Sue Olsen, 2007.
Fern Grower’s Manual, Hoshizaki and Moran, 2001.
Fern Catalog, www.SanDiegoFernSociety.com, 8/10/2011.

San Diego Fern Society Officers
Officers
President Kathie Russell klrkath@yahoo.com
1st Vice Pres. (Position Open)
2nd Vice Pres. Gary Bourne (regular mail)
Treasurer Bill Ganger wganger@sbcglobal.net
Secretary Amna Cornett amnacarol@yahoo.com

Directors
Past President Don Callard dcallard@san.rr.com
Board Member Bruce Barry (regular mail)
Board Member Sherry Worthen
Board Mem. Bob Charlton kwyjibo@san.rr.com

Fern World Editor Sherry Worthen sherryworthen@san.rr.com
Webmaster Bob Charlton kwyjibo@san.rr.com

Membership
Amna Cornett is our membership chair. Please pay your 2011 dues ($8 individual or $10
family) at a SDFS meeting or mail a check (payable to the San Diego Fern Society) to:
San Diego Fern Society Membership Chairman
3905 Ibis Street, San Diego, CA 92103

Addresses
E-mail: sandiegofernsociety@gmail.com
Website: www.sandiegofernsociety.com Volume XXXV, Number 9

The purpose of the San Diego Fern Society
is to promote an interest in ferns
and the enjoyment of them.
The Fern Society provides information
about the various kinds of ferns, their culture and care,
and sources—both commercial and
by member exchange—for obtaining ferns.

So Why Aren’t They Called Fern Allies Any More?
A Brief Primer on Plant Classification

Most of us are non-botanists who just love to grow beautiful plants, and we don't concern ourselves with scientific work. The San Diego Fern Society is open to all. But when we see some ferny-looking plants that are not ferns, and other weedy or viney-looking plants that are classified as ferns, we wonder how decisions are made about what plants are called, and how they are grouped.

When they work on classification, botanists use various characteristics of plants such as overall appearance, internal cell structure, and the form of the plant’s reproductive parts to help with their decisions. And in today's scientific world they also use DNA and other genetic factors in the classification process. Scientists using such tools discover new evidence and update former classifications. In his book, A Natural History of Ferns (Portland, OR: Timber Press, 2004), Robbin Moran discusses the “fern allies" controversy. He tells how it was decided that whisk ferns (Psilotum) and horsetails (Equisetum) are still categorized as true ferns, and other "fern allies" are now classified as Lycophytes, such as the Lycopodium, Isoetes, Selaginella, Lycopodiella, and Huperzia. So now you know!

Fern Show---It Will Be Here Next Week.

Society Members, come on down! We need lots of ferns to make this a beautiful show. Please check in as early as possible. We will help with ID. You can enter to compete or just bring some favorites for display only. There will be sign-up sheets at the meeting again this month for help with clerking, sales area observers, show room hosts, & greeters at the door. There is a job for everyone. Here is the show schedule.

San Diego Fern Show Schedule August 2011

Thursday, August 18 - Fern Society Meeting

6:30 to 7:30 pm …begin plant check in.
7:30 pm …society meeting. Preliminary set up for the show begins. This is a great time to bring all of your show or display plants, with your name on them, for plant identification and paperwork.

Friday, August 19 - Plant Registration and Show Set Up

8:00 am…building opens.
10:00 am…room set up
2:00 to 6:00 pm…plant check in, all entrants. Please let a board member know if you need to check in plants late (6:00 to 7:00 pm) due to work schedule or travel distance. Your paper-work is still needed by 6:00 pm for computer entry.
6-8:00 pm…finish registration, tags, final plant & room arrangement.
10:00 pm ………building closes.

Saturday, August 20 - Judging, Sale and Show

8:00 am …building opens.
8:30 am …clerks and judges arrive, coffee provided
(clerks and judges may reserve plants for purchase from
the sales stock; must pay cashier by Saturday afternoon)
9:00 to 10:30 am………judging.
9:00 am. . . set up for plant sale
10:30 am…lunch preparations
10:30 am…scoring, ribbons on plants; final show details
11:30 am to 1:00 pm …lunch for judges and volunteers
12 noon to 5:00 pm … Show open and Plant sale open, Room 101.

Sunday, August 21 - Show and sale

8:00 am …building opens.
9:30 am …morning volunteers arrive
10:00 am to 4:00 pm ….Show room & plant sale open, Room 101.
4:00 pm …Break down show, take home plants.


Ferns A to Z

This month we will be looking at the ferns whose names begin with E-F-G-H-I-J-K-L. However, as you will notice, there are no ferns starting with F, I, J, nor K. This group includes some very unusual, strikingly different ferns (and others we do not have room to discuss---see them in one of books listed below).

Elaphoglossum The ferns in this genus (at least 600 species) are native to tropical America and the West Indies. Elaphoglossums usually have simple, entire, often leathery fronds. They are character-ized by sporangia which cover the entire back of a fertile frond. Many varieties have fronds covered with scales or hairs. Young fronds appear black because of the density of scales that thin out as the frond grows. (I was astounded to look at these scales under a strong magnifying glass---they were star-shaped and beautiful. Elaphoglossums were favorites in Bob Halley’s fern collection; he had once shown us these scales “up close” during a fern lesson.) Most are epiphytic, although terrestrial forms are not unusual. These ferns require an atmos-phere of constant high humidity. Elaphoglossum crinitum, the Elephant Ear Fern, is spectacular with its simple fronds that resemble huge paddles up to 20 inches long. The frond is about half stipe and half lamina and all are covered with long black scales. Elaphoglossum peltatum (or Peltapteris peltata) is a small crawler commonly found on mossy tree trunks and fallen logs in the tropics. It has deeply incised sterile fronds (the width of the incisions varies widely) which is different from most Elaphoglossums. It requires a terrarium or greenhouse in temperate climates. The Elaphoglossum vestitum (originating in southern Mexico) does grow well here; it likes to stay moist, but well-drained. Some fern growers living in more dry areas will periodically mist their Elaphoglossums.

Equisetum. The Horsetail or Whisk Fern, Equisetum, is native to North America, Europe, and Asia. It was prolific in ages past, and became part of the coal layers formed during the Carboniferous period of earth’s history. It has an unusual appearance because of its tubular, hollow shoots that grow all along branching rhizomes found deep under ground. These stems, resembling reeds, have segments or nodes and internodes at intervals and out of these joints are small, scale-like leaves and slender, lateral branches that grow all around the node, giving Equisetum its “horsetail” appearance. The stems are hard and covered with silica deposits. Spores are produced in cones that form at the tops of the stems. One common species, the Equisetum hyemale, has striking black bands along the stems. Other species have feathery branches or loosely twisted stems. It is often planted around ponds or marshes, and can be grown in tubs or in the ground if kept moist and drained.

Goniophlebium subauriculatum. A very large fern found in the tops of the tropical rainforests, and draping over shady cliffs. (This genus was formerly named Polypodium subauriculatum until reclassified based on “several characteristics including venation.” Olsen) Its simple, pinnate fronds are long and willowy, making it one of the most desirable garden ferns. Particularly prized is G. subauriculatum 'Knightiae' whose deeply incised pinnules give it a light feathery look. These plants grow well here with some shade and plenty of air movement. Can be grown in the ground, or overhanging a wall. Its pendant fronds, up to 6 ft. long, are attractive in a hanging basket.

Gleichenia, Forking Fern. A large fern of the tropics and subtropics. Thin, spider-like fronds, one to many times forked, grow on tall stipes rising up from long, creeping rhizomes. There is always a dormant bud in the angle of the fork. Gleichenia is difficult to grow in cultivation (some say it needs a certain fungus in the soil) and is hardly ever seen in the U.S.

Gymnocarpium, Oak Fern. This small to medium sized fern is often seen in eastern U.S. gardens as a ground cover, or growing in moist open woodlands. A deciduous fern, it has triangular, moss-green “velvety” fronds (from 1 to 3-pinnate) that appear flat as they grow horizontally on brittle stipes along creeping rhizomes. Gymnocarpiums prefer loose, humusy, acid soil, low light, and constant moisture. Some varieties do better where there are cold winters.

Hemionitis. These small ferns are from Central and South America, and the West Indies. The most usual species seen in the U.S. is Hemionitis palmata, the Strawberry Fern. This attractive little fern (4-12") has leaves which look like those of a strawberry plant. The sterile fronds are clustered beneath the much taller fertile fronds. Can be grown in a small pot with light soil but may need a little protection (or even a terrarium) from the cold in this climate. For some reason Hemionitis is very susceptible to attacks from slugs, mealy bugs, and scale (Hoshizaki). It can be propagated by use of the little plantlets that form near the base of the blades, especially if layering is used first to help roots form before removing the plantlet. Another species, Hemionitis arifolia, has triangular 4- 6" shiny green fronds with heart-shaped fertile fronds, where sporangia appear along the netted veins. It needs a terrarium or greenhouse and slightly alkaline soil to grow well here.
Hypolepis, Ground Fern. This large fern can be seen in parks all around in southern California. It has large (24-60”), light green triangular, finely-divided fronds that are thin and often hairy. A native to Polynesia and Asia, it is easy to grow. You can control its habit of spreading rapidly by growing it in a tub. The most common species is Hypolepis tenuifolia.

Lemmaphyllum microphyllum, Green Penny Fern. A native of tropical Asia. This creeping epiphyte has small, thick, shiny, simple dimorphic fronds. The sterile fronds are rounded and fleshy. Fertile fronds are slender, taller, and fewer in number. It grows well on a tree fern slab or in a small basket and will cover the surface. It is quite temperature tolerant and grows very well here. It is often seen in terrarium plantings.

Llavea cordifolia. The only Llavea species, it is a native of Central America. The 1-2 foot long dimorphic fronds are quite different in appearance. Sterile fronds have oval, fingernail looking petioles. The fertile frond has a few oval petioles at the base, then the top 2/3 of the frond has spore packets in many narrow, finger-like segments. Llavea naturally occurs on exposed limestone rocks. Plants need to be kept on the dry side during winter dormancy.

Lygodium japonicum, Japanese Climbing Fern. Tropical Asia and Australia. One of the few real climbing (vining) ferns, it will grow to 50-60 ft. in the wild. Each of the long climbing tendrils is in fact a complete frond and may reach a height of 6-10 feet here. It can be grown in a pot or basket, with some kind of lattice structure to which the tendrils may cling. Sterile pinnules are 5-7 lobed with a longer terminal lobe. Fertile pinnules are smaller and crenate (scalloped), with sporangia along the margins. Its natural habitat is fairly dry and the plant is dormant in the dry season. In the southeast U.S. it is now an invasive plant. Lygodium palmatum was prolific along the eastern seaboard in the 1800s, but was harvested almost to extinction because the leaves stayed green on its vine when brought indoors for decorative festoons. It only grows now in 5 counties of W. Virginia.

References:
Encyclopedia of Ferns, David L. Jones, 1987.
Encyclopedia of Garden Ferns, Sue Olsen, 2007.
Fern Grower’s Manual, Hoshizaki and Moran, 2001.
Fern Catalog, www.SanDiegoFernSociety.com, 8/10/2011.



San Diego Fern Society Officers
Officers
President Kathie Russell klrkath@yahoo.com
1st Vice Pres. (Position Open)
2nd Vice Pres. Gary Bourne (regular mail)
Treasurer Bill Ganger wganger@sbcglobal.net Secretary Amna Cornett amnacarol@yahoo.com
Directors
Past President Don Callard dcallard@san.rr.com
Board Member Bruce Barry (regular mail)
Board Member Sherry Worthen
Board Mem. Bob Charlton kwyjibo@san.rr.com

Fern World Editor Sherry Worthen sherryworthen@san.rr.com
Webmaster Bob Charlton kwyjibo@san.rr.com

Membership
Amna Cornett is our membership chair. Please pay your 2011 dues ($8 individual or $10
family) at a SDFS meeting or mail a check (payable to the San Diego Fern Society) to:
San Diego Fern Society Membership Chairman
3905 Ibis Street, San Diego, CA 92103

Addresses
E-mail: sandiegofernsociety@gmail.com
Website: www.sandiegofernsociety.com

Volume XXXV, Number 8

The purpose of the San Diego Fern Society
is to promote an interest in ferns
and the enjoyment of them.
The Fern Society provides information
about the various kinds of ferns, their culture and care,
and sources—both commercial and
by member exchange—for obtaining ferns.

Keep your sense of proportion by regularly,
preferably daily, visiting the natural world.
— Caitlin Matthews

San Diego Fern Society Officers
Officers
President Kathie Russell klrkath@yahoo.com
1st Vice Pres. (Position Open)
2nd Vice Pres. Gary Bourne (regular mail)
Treasurer Bill Ganger wganger@sbcglobal.net
Secretary Amna Cornett amnacarol@yahoo.com

Directors
Past President Don Callard dcallard@san.rr.com
Board Member Bruce Barry (regular mail)
Board Member Sherry Worthen
Board Mem. Bob Charlton kwyjibo@san.rr.com

Fern World Editor Sherry Worthen sherryworthen@san.rr.com
Webmaster Bob Charlton kwyjibo@san.rr.com

Membership
Amna Cornett is our membership chair. Please pay your 2011 dues ($8 individual or $10
family) at a SDFS meeting or mail a check (payable to the San Diego Fern Society) to:
San Diego Fern Society Membership Chairman
3905 Ibis Street, San Diego, CA 92103

Addresses
E-mail: sandiegofernsociety@gmail.com
Website: www.sandiegofernsociety.com

Volume XXXV, Number 5

The purpose of the San Diego Fern Society
is to promote an interest in ferns
and the enjoyment of them.
The Fern Society provides information
about the various kinds of ferns, their culture and care,
and sources—both commercial and
by member exchange—for obtaining ferns.

When the days lengthen and the sun lies long
on hill and field and garden,
there is relaxation, realization . . .
There can be no business in life more pressing
than to wait in the still, green world,
and to absorb the young summer with every breath.
L. B. Wilder, 1937

Is not all the summer akin to a paradise?
Henry David Thoreau, May 1852

San Diego Fern Society Officers
Officers
President Kathie Russell klrkath@yahoo.com
1st Vice Pres. (Position Open)
2nd Vice Pres. Gary Bourne (regular mail)
Treasurer Bill Ganger wganger@sbcglobal.net
Secretary Amna Cornett amnacarol@yahoo.com

Directors
Past President Don Callard dcallard@san.rr.com
Board Member Bruce Barry (regular mail)
Board Member Sherry Worthen
Board Mem. Bob Charlton kwyjibo@san.rr.com

Fern World Editor Sherry Worthen sherryworthen@san.rr.com
Webmaster Bob Charlton kwyjibo@san.rr.com


Membership

Amna Cornett is our membership chair. Please pay your 2011 dues ($8 individual or $10 family) at a SDFS meeting or mail a check (payable to the San Diego Fern Society) to:
San Diego Fern Society Membership Chairman
3905 Ibis Street,
San Diego, CA 92103


Addresses

E-mail: sandiegofernsociety@gmail.com
Website: www.sandiegofernsociety.com

The purpose of the San Diego Fern Society
is to promote an interest in ferns
and the enjoyment of them.
The Fern Society provides information
about the various kinds of ferns, their culture and care,
and sources—both commercial and
by member exchange—for obtaining ferns.

Volume XXXV, Number 5