EXOTIC FERNS I27 



main stem may have lateral branches, but 

 Nature never attempts to remedy a terminal 

 disaster. Aside from the unusual climbing 

 habit, it is an attractive fern, light in colour, 

 beautifully cut, especially those fronds which 

 are tipped with fertile segments. 



The advantage of tropical or sub-tropical 

 ferns over equally beautiful native species 

 for living-room culture lies in the fact that 

 they require no long period of absolute rest, 

 consequently the renewal of foliage is imper- 

 ceptible; whereas many native ferns are dis- 

 tinctly deciduous, and even our hardy or 

 half-hardy sorts drop down to rest even while 

 retaining their freshness of colour. As already 

 stated, certain species are benefited by en- 

 forced rest, but it is not of vital importance. 



THE SOIL TO PROVIDE 



As a general rule light soil is preferred by 

 most ferns. Leaf mould, black and beautiful, 

 suits species which require much water. 

 Others which prefer to go dry shod thrive 



