102 '-7HF PRACTICAL, GARDEN -BOOK 



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can be given. They make fine specimens, as well as serv- 

 ing the purpose of greenery for cut -flowers. Other species 

 often grown for house plants are A. cuneatum and A. 

 Capillus- Veneris. All these do well in a mixture of fibrous 

 sod, loam, and sand, with ample drainage material. They 

 may be divided if an increase is wanted. 



Other Ferns for house culture include 

 Nephrolepis exaltata. This is no doubt the 

 most easily grown of the list, flourishing in 

 a sitting-room. The new variety of N. exal- 

 tata, called the Boston Fern (see figure), 

 is a decided addition to this family, having a 

 drooping habit, covering the pot and making 

 a fine stand or bracket plant. 



Several species of Pteris, particularly P. 

 serrulata, are valuable house Ferns, but re- 

 quire a warmer situation than those mentioned above. They 

 will also thrive better in a shady or ill -lighted corner. 



Perfect drainage and care in watering have more to do 

 with the successful growing of Ferns than any special mix- 

 ture of soils. If the drainage material in the bottom of the 

 pot or box is sufficient, there is little danger of over- 

 watering; but water-logged soil is always to be avoided, 

 Do not use clay soils. Ferns need protection from the di- 

 rect sunshine, and also a moist atmosphere. They thrive 

 well in a close glass box, or window -garden, if the conditions 

 can be kept equable. 



The native Ferns transplant easily to the garden, and 

 they make an attractive addition to the side of a house, or 

 as an admixture in a hardy border. The Ostrich and Cin- 

 namon Ferns are the best subjects. Give all outdoor Ferns 

 a place which is protected from winds, otherwise they will 

 shrivel and perhaps die. Screen them from the hot sun, 

 or give them the shady side of the building. See that the 

 soil is uniformly moist, and that it does not get too hot. 

 Mulch with leaf -mold in the fall. 



