Sow spores or seeds as soon as ripe on moist compost

You might not want to undertake this as this process is quite technically demanding. Sow spores as soon as ripe, usually in mid- to late summer, on moist compost. Spores should be collected only when ripe. You can tell if they are ripe as the spores will change colour, from green to various shades of yellow, brown or black. This is the time to collect the spores. Pinch off a small section of fertile frond and place into a packet (normal envelopes make good packets).The packets should be stored in a warm dry place for a few days then inspected. Look for a fine dust of spores at the bottom of your packet. If no spores appear to have collected try flicking the packet. This may dislodge spores resting on the fern fragment. If flicking still doesn't result in any dust, then reseal the packet and leave for a few more days. Once collected, sow the spores thinly onto the surface of rather damp soil. There are a few important points to keep in mind when sowing spores: 1. You must sterilise the growing medium or you will have problems of competition from algae and mosses. The growth medium should be fitted to the needs of the species. 2. For all species you need to maintain reasonably high humidity. This is best done by sowing into 5 cm pots and then sealing in plastic bags. 3. Don't sow the spores too thickly. 4. Most species need good but not direct light. They grow much faster in the warm (l5º C). 5. In the unlikely event that you get no results from a pot, do not throw it out! Your best bet is to experiment. Move the pots to a different aspect, add more water, let them dry out, just have fun finding out.