Ferns, any problems with them?

Hi,
I have some ferns growing in my front garden and am considering separating the clump and planting some in a space in my back garden. However, I read in an article by Monty Don that ferns are carcogenic, but he didn't elaborate on that. Also there is a suggestion that they can spread and be trouble controlling that spreading.
Can anyone comment on the carcinogenic nature of them and do they spread uncontrollably. Any advice on transplanting them etc.

Many thanks for any advice offered.
Mike

 

Was the article about bracken as opposed to ferns in general?

 

The spores on bracken are the bits that supposedly do the damage. They are microscopic and get into your lungs. The best time to split a fern is in autumn or spring, when it's dormant so even if it does apply to other types of fern it shouldn't be a promblem at that time of year but I think the warning was just about bracken. Lettuce contains carcinogens, euphorbias can give you third degree burns and dandelions make you wet the bed.

 

Scaremongering would you say Helen?

 

dandelions make you wet the bed......
lol Helen .....
only after you had too much Dandelion wine lol

 

Thanks Helen, any idea about the spreading problem?

 

I recon that the spreading out of control comment was also about bracken. I have several ferns and they area all pretty well behaved.

 

The japanese painted ferns (without looking it up I think its anthyrium?) have beautiful coloured leaves