Mystery envelops fern plants, due in part to their unusual (when compared to flowers, that is) manner of reproducing. But don't let fern plants remain a mystery to you and your landscaping! Most fern plants "prefer rich, humus-laden, well-drained soil, dappled shade, and a consistent supply of moisture," states this piece on fern plants. The article goes on to instruct you in the propagation of fern plants, introducing you to terminology such as "rhizomes," "crosiers" and "spores."