Invasive Sword Ferns
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ in a Minute
Episode Archive
Episode #398 | Original Air Date: September 8, 2021
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Transcript
The tuberous sword fern and the Asian sword fern are invasive exotic plants that have pushed their way into landscapes and natural areas across Florida.
These invasive ferns are not Florida-friendly and can take over native habitats, out competing other plants and creating a monoculture where very little else thrives.
First seen in Florida in the 1930s, these ferns are now found in wooded areas, wetlands, and in shady yards statewide. The harmful sword ferns look almost identical to two native Florida sword ferns, which can cause confusion for gardeners.
Take a sample to your county Extension office for positive identification and advice on how to properly remove and control.
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ in a Minute is a production of the University of Florida’s Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program, IFAS Extension, and WUFT-FM in cooperation with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
