192 BEAUTIFUL FLOWERS 



The procedure may be the same as for palms, and top-dressing 

 may be substituted for repotting if more convenient. 



If a Maidenhair should fall into ill-health it is advisable to cut 

 it hard back, and let it break again. 



Ferns are propagated by spores as a rule, which are gathered 

 from the fronds, and sown like seeds, but the process is slow, 

 and young plants can be bought very cheaply. Maidenhairs can 



be increased by division, which is best 

 effected when growth starts in spring. 

 They should be cut boldly through with 

 a strong, sharp knife. 



The Aspidistra -The Parlour Palm, 

 as Aspidistra lurida and its variegated 

 form are often called, is not a true 

 palm. It is one of the most valuable 

 of house plants, because it will thrive 

 under conditions that would lead to the 

 speedy demise of most plants. It will 

 thrive for a considerable period in a 



ASPIDISTRA LURIDA VARIEGATA 



A, side shoot held in position by peg ; B, draughty passage. Of course, draughts 



are not good for it, and if they have 

 their way for a long time they will 

 tell their inevitable tale; but it is as 

 well to know of a plant that does not succumb quickly to 

 unfavourable circumstances. 



Most people prefer the variegated Aspidistra to the plain 

 green, and are generally disconsolate when a variegated plant 

 loses its silvery patches. They should learn that this is generally 

 due to providing too rich a soil. The more luxuriant the growth, 

 the greater the likelihood of a preponderance of green. Plain 

 loam and sand will suffice; manure and leaf-mould should both 

 be avoided. 



The transference to the open air during showers, the sponging 



shows the flower of the 



