Plant Athyrium ferns in partial to full shade, in soil that stays consistently moist but drains freely. Incorporate plenty of well-rotted leaf mould, composted pine needles or garden compost into the planting hole to enrich the soil and support healthy root development.

Water during dry periods, particularly in the first growing season. Apply a mulch of leaf mould or compost each spring to retain moisture and suppress weeds. Cut back old fronds in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.

In colder parts of the UK, protect the crown in late autumn with a dry mulch of straw or bracken to prevent frost damage.