45 



even the ramifications of the stem : this suggests that its 

 remedy, would consist in a due regulation and balance 

 of the constituents of the atmosphere, and the soil. 



Moisture is generally applied to the soil by being poured 

 directly on it, and to the atmosphere, by means of the 

 syringe, and the use of evaporation troughs. When ap- 

 plied to the soil only from the upper surface, there is a 

 liability of its failing thoroughly to moisten it, and by 

 reason of this, together with the constant action of the 

 heat from below, by whatever means heat may be applied, 

 the soil is frequently found to be dry beneath, when the 

 appearance of the surface might lead to the supposition 

 that it was sufficiently moistened. 



By a reference to the sketch and description already 

 given, it will be seen, that a provision is there made, 

 whereby water can be poured in quantity beneath the soil, 

 immediately on the top of the tank, whence in the form 

 of vapour it will rise among the soil, and thus render it 

 thoroughly moist; at the same time, it can be applied to 

 the surface, whenever it may become necessary to do so. 

 The moistening of the atmosphere will also be fully se- 

 cured by the mode of ventilation which is there proposed, 

 for the air, at the same time that it is warmed, will be- 

 come charged with moisture in a ratio equal to its tempe- 

 rature, before it enters the house. If it becomes requi- 

 site to admit moisture without changing the volume of 

 air, it can readily be effected by opening the tubes or 

 shafts inside the house, without opening the exterior 

 ventilators ; and when dry heat may be required, it can be 

 secured by closing entirely the communication with this 

 reservoir of moisture, and the hot-water pipes will then 

 radiate any quantity of dry heat that may be required. 



By means of a due application of these provisions, an 

 equable degree of moisture beneath and among the soil, 

 as well as in the composition of the atmosphere, can be 

 secured with perfect ease, and a trifling amount of labour. 



