Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE Decor editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.If your front yard needs an extra spruce for spring, consider adding a Japanese painted fern to your landscaping design. Even if you don't have a green thumb, you've probably spotted these ferns before: Known for their silvery, pointed leaves and deep burgundy stems, these outdoor plants are a great pest-resistant variety to grow in your backyard. The best part? Just like philodendrons or air plants, Japanese painted ferns are surprisingly easy to grow, making them a great beginner-friendly option.When should you plant a Japanese painted fern?Japanese painted ferns should be planted in the spring, after the last frost, when the soil has started to warm up. This allows the ferns to establish themselves in the garden before the heat of summer. They thrive in partial to full shade, making them ideal for shaded borders, woodland gardens, or as ground cover under trees. Well-drained, rich, and consistently moist soil is crucial for their growth. Planting in early spring gives the fern time to settle in and develop a strong root system, ensuring its lush, silvery foliage will emerge beautifully throughout the growing season. How much light do Japanese painted ferns need?If you have a backyard that doesn't get much light, don't worry. Japanese painted ferns prefer shady environments, and in the wild often grow beneath larger trees that offer them protection from scorching sunlight. That makes them great contenders for cooler environments. However, they still should get some sunlight, so make sure they're not kept in complete shade.jun xu//Getty ImagesA backyard japanese painted fern.How often should you water Japanese painted ferns?Japanese painted ferns prefer moist environments. If you water your outdoor plants, make sure that the soil is damp but not water-logged. In their natural environments, these plants prefer more humid conditions, so the occasional mist wouldn't go amiss. If you live in a hot, dry environment, a Japanese painted fern might not be the best choice for you. If you notice the leaves becoming yellow, your fern may be getting too much water.How big do Japanese painted ferns get?Japanese painted ferns typically grow to a moderate size, reaching about 12 to 18 inches in height and spreading 18 to 24 inches wide. Their compact, arching fronds give them an elegant, layered appearance, with silvery-gray leaves accented by deep burgundy or purple stems. While they may stay small in the first year or two, once established, they can gradually expand to form lush clumps, creating an attractive ground cover. These ferns' graceful size makes them perfect for small gardens, container planting, or as companions to other shade-loving plants. Can you keep Japanese painted ferns indoors?Yes, you can keep Japanese painted ferns indoors, but they require specific conditions to thrive. Since they are native to shaded forest floors, they prefer low to medium indirect light, making them well-suited for indoor environments with minimal sunlight. However, it's important to maintain high humidity levels and provide consistently moist, well-draining soil to mimic their natural habitat. Placing them near a humidifier or misting them regularly can help prevent the leaves from drying out. While Japanese painted ferns can adapt to indoor conditions, they tend to grow more vibrantly outdoors in shaded gardens. What are common pests for Japanese painted ferns?In the wild, Japanese painted ferns have an excellent defense against deer who may want to take a bite. That being said, rabbits and snails are more common pests. You can deter them with natural remedies such as neem oil, or by protecting them with some clever landscaping. MR.WUTTISAK PROMCHOO//Getty ImagesFerns in pots on a porch.Can you propagate Japanese painted ferns? Yes, you can propagate a Japanese painted fern through division, which is the most effective method. The best time to do this is in early spring, just as new growth begins to emerge. To propagate, gently dig up an established fern and carefully separate the root clump into smaller sections, ensuring that each division has healthy roots and a few fronds attached. Replant these divisions in well-draining, moist soil, either in a garden or in pots. Keep them well-watered until they are fully established. Propagating by division is not only a great way to increase your fern collection but also helps revitalize older plants by encouraging fresh growth. Should you prune Japanese painted ferns?Yes, you should prune Japanese painted ferns, but only as part of routine maintenance to keep the plant healthy and looking its best. In early spring, before new growth emerges, you can trim away any old, damaged, or browned fronds from the previous year. This helps make room for fresh, vibrant foliage to grow and keeps the plant looking tidy. Throughout the growing season, you can remove any spent or discolored fronds to maintain the ferns appearance. Pruning is minimal with Japanese painted ferns, but it encourages healthier growth and enhances their ornamental beauty.Are Japanese painted ferns pet-safe?Japanese painted ferns are not toxic to dogs or cats, so you don't need to worry if your pet ingests a small amount. Still, you should do your best to keep them from eating a large amount of this plant, as it could temporarily upset their stomachs.Tatjana FreundFashion & Luxury Commerce EditorTatjana Freund is Hearst's Fashion & Luxury Commerce Editor, covering beauty, fashion and more across multiple brands. Previously, she worked at ELLE.com and Marie Claire. She's a fan of whiskey neat, podcasts that give her nightmares, and one time Zo Kravitz laughed at a joke she made.