24 THE NURSERY-BOOK, 



Spores. Ferns, lycopodiums and selaginellas are often grown 

 from spores. The general conditions adapted to the germina- 

 tion of seeds are also suitable for the germination of spores, but 

 extra care must be taken with the drainage. If a pot is used, it 

 should be half or more filled with drainage material, and the soil 

 should be rendered loose by the addition of bits of brick, char- 

 coal, cinders or other porous materials. The surface soil 

 should be fine and uniform. Some place a thin layer of brick 

 dust upon the surface, in which the spores are sown. It is a 

 frequent practice to bake the soil to destroy other spores 

 which might cause troublesome growths. The spores should be 

 sprinkled upon the surface and should not be covered. The pot 

 should be set in a saucer of water and it should be covered by 

 paper or a pane of glass if the sun strikes it. Better results are 

 obtained if the pot or pan is placed inside a propagating-frame or 

 under a bell-glass. In place of earth, a block or small cubes 

 of firm peat or sandstone may be employed. The block is 

 placed in a saucer of water and the spores are sown upon its sur- 

 face. Water should not be applied directly to the spores, as it is 

 apt to dislodge them. 



The period of germination varies in different species, but 

 three to six weeks may be considered the ordinary limits. While 

 still very small, the plantlets should be pricked out, and for 

 some time thereafter they should be subjected to the same con- 

 ditions as before. Spores -are so exceedingly small and light 

 that the greatest care must be exercised in growing them. In 

 order to gather them, the fronds may be cut as soon as the sori 

 or fruit-dots turn brown, and stored in close boxes or paper bags. 



NOTE. For tables of weights and longevities of seeds and quantities 

 required forgiven areas, consult Horticulturist's Rule-Book. 



