16 THE UNHEATED GREENHOUSE 



purposes. For a conservatory the case is different, and east, 

 west, or even north, should be chosen rather than a southern 

 aspect, which is generally far too scorching in spring and 

 summer for the well being of plants in flower, though neces- 

 sarily colder in winter. It has happened to me to enter into 

 possession of a conservatory so badly planned at the outset, 

 though intended to be imposing, and such a veritable sun- 

 trap, that it was hopeless to try to keep it well arranged with 

 fresh-looking foliage or flowers. Ultimately it was turned into 

 an abode for Cacti and succulent plants, for which it was 

 passably well adapted. For strictly decorative purposes, 

 therefore, a north aspect may be not without its advantages. 

 Otherwise it is to be avoided, as it can only be used success- 

 fully for certain shade-loving plants, of which Lapageria may 

 be given as a notable example. 



It is well to remember that under any aspect favourable 

 or otherwise something in the way of plant life may be found 

 to which the special circumstances are exactly suited, and 

 so, when these are adverse, to take courage. It sometimes 

 happens that a most unpromising greenhouse may turn out 

 to be a blessing in disguise. A lean-to house in a north 

 aspect, for example, has been found before now to be specially 

 well adapted for the culture of certain fine Orchids, such as 

 Disas, and for New Zealand Filmy Ferns. 



Site and aspect being chosen, the special needs of the 

 unheated greenhouse must be considered. These are dryness, 

 ventilation, and shading. 



DRYNESS 



It may seem absurd to insist upon dryness as an essential 

 point in a plant-house, which, from its very purpose, must be 

 more or less damp; but there is always a point when a 

 blessing may become a curse, and of all worries and annoy- 



