SOME HINTS ON CONSTRUCTION 19 



happily, are not picturesque, and we must be content mean- 

 while with the practical side of the question. So let the 

 gardener court all the light that is so essential a factor in the 

 wellbeing of plants. An overlap of half an inch is quite 

 enough. When it is broader green mould collects, which is 

 not even picturesque in its ugliness, while in hard frosts the 

 moisture which lodges becomes frozen, and very often cracks 

 the glass. Smoothly ground edges to fit closely without any 

 lap are sometimes recommended, but the panes are liable to 

 slip and occasion needless trouble. In any case this plan is 

 better left unattempted by unskilled hands. As a hint to an 

 inexperienced glazier, and to ensure a water-tight roof, the 

 squares should be well bedded in putty, which must be neatly 

 trimmed off within and without no outside putty being 

 required and it is well to use, besides, four brass-tacks to 

 keep each pane in place. If these small details are not over- 

 looked, and the woodwork kept at all times thoroughly well 

 painted inside and out, there ought to be no fear of annoy- 

 ance from drip. An excellent method adopted by a thoroughly 

 practical horticultural architect is slightly to round off the 

 lower edge of each pane of glass, which attracts the wet to the 

 middle point and greatly lessens the risk of drip. 



No less important is it to avoid ground-damp, and a good 

 brick or concrete path in a working greenhouse is a great 

 boon. In a conservatory opening out of rooms a flooring of 

 tiles that are non-porous is very desirable. Flags are 

 commonly used for this purpose, especially in the country, 

 and perhaps look better, but they " hold the wet," and if 

 quite plain tiles are chosen there need be nothing to offend 

 the eye, while the gain is great. In hot weather the floor can 

 be sprinkled several times a day, and the moisture will 

 quickly find its way into the air and leave no puddles behind 

 it. Borders are not to be recommended, as has been said 

 before, or any kind of planting out in a conservatory, 



