124 FERNS 



cuneatum), the best known of the true maiden- 

 hair ferns, is another familiar plant in many 

 homes, popular even before the recognition 

 of the sword fern. This dainty, feathery 

 thing is the ideal centrepiece for any sort of 

 table. And if it demands more careful 

 culture than the sword ferns it surely is not 

 difficult to grow, for plants live on for twenty 

 and even thirty years. The veteran plants I 

 have in mind are occasionally put into the 

 ground for the summer, in shade of course, 

 and allowed to take care of themselves fqr a 

 time, a privilege not abused, as they both 

 rest and grow. Cutting back now and then 

 is also beneficial. Plenty of water is im- 

 perative. Unlike the Boston fern, the fronds 

 wither quickly if the soil once becomes dry. 

 Other members of the genus submit with more 

 or less grace to ordinary living-room culture, 

 but A . cuneatum, the stand-by of the florist, 

 takes the lead, as it is the most easily cultivated 

 and the fronds last longer when cut; hence 

 its superior decorative value. A soil composed 

 largely of sterilised leaf mould is preferred. 



