Approximately 10,000 species of fern are known, most of which prefer neutral soil to acid conditions and well-dug garden soil with added humus will suit most species. They do not like waterlogged conditions. Planting may be carried out at any time if container grown plants are used, but in dry weather water regularly until established. Try to plant in full or dappled shade, but adequate moisture is the important thing, so try some round a sunken pond or add nature by constructing a piece of rockwood ie. building a fernery. Many ferns thrive in the low levels of a deciduous woodland setting and add architectural interest planted in bold swathes or scattered through other planting. Flowering plants may not thrive in darker and comparatively gloomy situations, but ferns may be cultivated with success in these conditions.