CH. vi.] THE FERN FAMIL Y 87 



chapter vii. there will be added some practical suggestions 

 on the construction of a fernery. 



Let me add a few words as to the Ferns which are 

 best suited for outdoor cultivation, and those kinds which 

 may be reserved for a cool fernery under glass. 



The Osmunda thrives best at the edge of water, 

 where its roots may reach into moisture which is not 

 stagnant. 



The Blechnum and the Lastrea Thelypteris or 

 Marsh Fern also like a damp atmosphere, where there is 

 good loam and fibrous peat. Here also the Oak and 

 Beech delight to spread their matted rhizomes over the 

 roots of over-shading trees. 



The Parsley Fern will not grow for long in any place 

 where it cannot push its roots between the crevices of 

 flat rocks ; it cares less for soil than for a cool equable 

 moisture, but when it finds this, it becomes luxurious in 

 its growth. 



The Welsh and Cornish Polypodies, as well as the 

 more common sorts, are perhaps the most satisfactory 

 of all for forming beautiful groups. Their creeping stems 

 grow upon the surface and spread themselves around 

 blocks of wood and stone, and, being evergreens, they are 

 in perfection when most wanted. 



The Polystichums or Prickly Shield Ferns include 

 some of the choicest of all hardy plants. The richness 



