CHAPTER XIV. 



HOW TO PROPAGATE FERNS. 



|N this chapter we arc to consider how to 

 multiply our ferns. It may be done in 

 three different ways, (a) by growing 

 them from spores, (b) by dividing the larger 

 plants, (c) by propagating the buds, which, as we 

 have previously seen, are formed upon certain 

 species. If we are so fortunate as to possess a 

 greenhouse, or, still better, if a friend will allow 

 us a corner of his, we can produce ferns to our 

 heart's content ; but, if we depend upon our win- 

 dow or out-door garden, we shall be likely to fall 

 short of the success which a greenhouse will 

 insure. 



In the chapter on Structure it was mentioned 

 that the fronds of many species of ferns spring 

 from underground stems which creep about either 

 directly upon the surface or at some distance 

 beneath it, and that the roots were produced 

 directly from this stem also. Now, t supposing 



139 



