OF HOUSE-PLANTS 



pendent of mere sentimentalism, if we are 

 wise enough to recognize it. 



Fresh air should be admitted on every 

 pleasant day, no matter how cold it is. Do 

 not open the windows at which the plants 

 stand, and allow the cold air to blow directly 

 on them, for frequently a blast of cold air con- 

 tains a chill suflScient to seriously injure a 

 tender plant. Open a door at some distance 

 from them, and allow the cold out-door air to 

 mix with the warm air of the room before it 

 reaches them. It's a good plan to lower a win- 

 dow on the opposite side of the room while the 

 fresh air is coming in. This will drive out the 

 foul air. Too much stress can not be laid on 

 the necessity of airing plants. They breathe, 

 as we do, and they cannot breathe the same 

 air over and over and remain healthy. 



Speaking of the breathing of plants reminds 

 me to say that they breathe through pores in 

 their leaves, and if these pores become clogged 

 by dust it will be difficult for them to receive 

 a great deal of benefit from fresh air. There- 

 fore aim to keep your plants clean. This can 

 easily be done when you have a room for them, 

 but it is not such an easy matter when they 

 occupy the windows of the living-room. Dust 



107 



