Matteuccia Struthiopteris

In a wooded area, the ferns receive some natural mulch from fallen leaves and evergreen needles.Ferns are sensitive to fertilizer, though they can benefit from a light application in spring, right after their new fronds begin to emerge.

Growing in the wild, ostrich ferns are most commonly found in deciduous woods, often in a shady site that is moist but well-draining. Fiddleheads can be pan-fried, sauteed or added to anything from quiche to pasta, and they can even be pickled .