110 FERNS AS DECORATIVE OBJECTS. 



toinplated in these remarks, whether they are indigenous or 

 exotic, hardy or tender. Some of the most vigorous-growing 

 species may, perliaps, not actually require so nmcli nicety in tlie 

 performance of the operation as tliat liere directed ; but as they 

 are to be grown into objects of ornament, and not of mere exist- 

 ence, it is proper that each act of culture should be well per- 

 formed. 



4. Atmospheric Conditions. 



A moist climate has been already spoken of as generally favour- 

 able to the development of Ferns. In adapting a climate to 

 suit the tropical species, it will tlierefore be necessary to render 

 the atmosphere hygrometrically charged in accordance with the 

 e.xtra heat which these require. Saturation of the atmosphere 

 should, in fact, be almost unvaryingly maintained, at least while 

 tiie plants are in a growing state. In winter, when the temper- 

 ature is kept lower than during the remainder of the year, rather 

 less moisture should be dispersed in the atmosphere ; but those 

 plants whose fronds are jiersistent through the winter must not 

 at any time be kept in a very arid climate. 



The tropical species require an average day temperature of 

 about 70^, decreased to 60° in winter, and lowered at night to 

 55^ or 50'. The species which are natives of temperate climates 

 require a day temperature ranging from 40° to 60°, permanently 

 lower in winter than in summer, and in all cases lower by night 

 than by day : from 35° to 40° will be a sufficiently high night 

 temperature. 



The hardy and half-hardy species may be placed in a frame 

 kept moderately close at all times, and in winter covered at 

 night with mats. The hardy species do not absolutely need this 

 protection, but the shelter thus afforded is favourable to their 

 development. In a green-house temperature, the indigenous 

 Lady-fern is an object of exquisite elegance. Shade, during 

 bright sunny weather, is decidedly advantageous to these plants. 



5. Watering. 



Ferns should never be suffered to become dry. When growing, 

 they require a free supply of water at the roots ; but when at 

 rest, or partially so, a moderate quantity, enough to keep the 

 roots fresh and succulent, is sufficient. They luxuriate, how- 

 ever, in a damp atmosphere, and are consequently much benefited 

 by being frequently sprinkled over-head with pure water ; and 

 this is especially the case with all those species which are culti- 

 vated in an artificially elevated temperature. Rain-water, or at 

 least soft water, should be made use of; and for those which are 

 grown in a warm climate, it should always be used in a tepid 



