STEAM VS. HOT WATER. 41 
The old method of heating by means of the large cast iron 
pipes is not adapted to the forcing business. The com- 
parative merits of steam and water as media for conveying 
heat have been much discussed in recent years, with the 
result that neither system has gained a complete victory. In 
other words, each system has peculiar merits. Our own 
experience emphasizes the greater value of steam, but we 
do not condemn hot water. We believe that steam is 
superior for very large houses where the fall is slight, for 
27. The laying of lapped glass. 
most forcing-houses, and for all establishments which are 
likely to be often modified and extended. It is particularly 
desirable in the forcing of such ‘‘warm’’ plants as tomatoes 
and melons. For conservatory purposes, for straight runs 
and small and cool houses, it is equaled—probably sur- 
passed in many instances—by water. Steam overcomes 
