Netted Chain Fern

About this plant

Known for its unique netted venation pattern on bright green fronds, Woodwardia areolata, or Netted Chain Fern, brings an elegant and architectural element to the garden. It forms dense, spreading clumps, creating an attractive groundcover or a lush accent. Unlike many ferns, the Netted Chain Fern is quite adaptable, tolerating a range of soil conditions as long as consistent moisture is provided. Its vibrant foliage remains attractive throughout the growing season, offering continuous visual interest. This fern is an excellent choice for woodland gardens, shady borders, or beside water features, where its textural beauty can be fully appreciated. It provides a serene, verdant backdrop or a focal point in areas where other plants might struggle.

Installation timing

When we're in season, outside of the winter months, our goal is to get your plants installed within about two weeks. That window gives us enough time to secure your plants from our supplier and find a spot on the schedule. Throughout the process we stay in touch through notifications and your existing client portal on the main A Cut Above website, which is separate from this landscaping plants shop.

Care & maintenance

Plant in consistently moist, well-draining soil rich in organic matter. While adaptable, it prefers acidic conditions. Provide regular water, especially during dry spells, to maintain lush growth. No significant pruning is typically required, beyond removing any damaged or old fronds in spring.

Watering suggestions

Proper watering is the single most important factor in your plant's survival after installation. Newly installed plants have a limited root system and rely on you for consistent moisture while they establish.

• First 2 weeks: Water deeply every day (or every other day in cooler, wet weather), soaking the root ball and surrounding soil.
• Weeks 3–12: Water deeply 2–3 times per week, adjusting for rain, heat, and soil drainage.
• After establishment: Water deeply about once a week during the growing season, and more often in extreme heat or drought.
• How to check: Stick a finger 2–3 inches into the soil near the roots — if it's dry, it's time to water. Deep, less-frequent watering encourages strong roots; shallow daily sprinkles do not.
• Avoid: Overwatering (soggy, waterlogged soil) is just as harmful as underwatering and can drown roots.

Watering needs vary by plant, season, soil, and exposure. Because proper watering is the customer's responsibility after installation, please make sure you understand and can follow these suggestions before ordering.

Good to know: plants and trees purchased from and installed by A Cut Above include a one-year limited warranty from the date of installation. Because plant survival depends heavily on proper watering and care after installation, losses caused by improper care, neglect, animal or chemical damage, or extreme weather are not covered, and we must be given the chance to inspect a struggling plant before it's removed or replaced. Coverage is one replacement per plant. Read our warranty info.