I was given some from the wild Lady Ferns a few weeks ago. I found that the very small ones up to 4" and the more mature ones over 14" do very poorly or die within days to a couple weeks. I have had the best luck with the 6" to 10" ferns. They do like composted soils that are moist and will thrive in partial shade with even about 6 hours of full afternoon sun on them.