Exactly where you located?

Town of Greenfield/Saratoga Springs in Zone 4

It will probably work.

However...

Ostrich fern has a couple of quirks that definitely have to be taken into account. One is, it can be a very aggressive spreader. Established crowns put out massive roots that have the ability to turn into established crowns on their own any time they get above ground. It does not work and play well with others, so needs its own area.

Which brings us to quirk number two. It naturally goes dormant fairly early in the fall. If let dry out in August, it will go dormant then --- for the winter. It is also not a particularly attractive plant once it goes dormant.

In the right situation, it can be stunning. However, in the wrong place, it's a struggle. It is not a plant I would introduce into a garden lightly.

Hi - I am zone 4b - utica area. Mad G is right about Ostrich Fern. It gwoer very well for me - I have to agressivly controll it. The fern is downright UGLY this time of year. And boy did the Japanese Beetles go after it. But I do love fiddleheads so I keep some around.

Kim

I totally agree with the above quirks as I had to remove it from a bed of Variegated Japanese Pachysandra and other gardens where choice plants were overtaken.
It is best in a moist area where a lawn or garden would not matter...

Hi

So......do you still want an ostrich fern.....if so and you get down by Albany.....I will dig one up for you! I have tons of them and just love them.

Jean

Thank you all for the info. I'm going to give it a try; lots of land to play with.

Jean - As a matter of fact, I'm going to Colonie Center Monday. Are you near there, or on my way? You can email me through My Page.

you have mail..........Jean

If you don't get it e-mail me at WSL121@aol.com