The young green bracken fronds can be composted on their own or added to an existing mixed cold compost bin or heap and will decompose slowly, enriching the nutrient content of the compost. It is not necessary to shred these young plants but doing so does speed the composting process.

Can I put ferns in my compost?

Back to your question (and it’s a good one, I remember wondering the same thing myself when I started composting): Brown ferns are a brown. Shred them and keep them at hand to mix in with your greens as you put them in. 50/50 is great, if you have it. Then you can adjust with water if it’s too dry in the summer.

Is bracken good for the garden?

Growing bracken fern in gardens is often not a good idea because it can usually out compete other plants growing in the same area. Bracken ferns in gardens and other areas are attractive plants with delicate looking fronds. … Other woodland plants which can grow successfully with bracken ferns include: Wild violets.