158 FERN GROWING 



of the same species ; and the great test is in these crosses, 

 for the seedHngs from crossed varieties are as fertile as their 

 parents, whilst those between two species are practically 

 sterile : this is shown in the offspring that have been pro- 

 duced from crossing Aspidium angulare with AspidiuTU acule- 

 atum, or from the want of success in sowing the spores of 

 Nephrodium remotum (known in gardens as Lastrea remota) 

 and Asplenium microdona. 



For many reasons it is desirable to enter into details as 

 regards the cultivation of Ferns, and to point out what may 

 be injurious to their successful cultivation, and thus to render 

 assistance to those who are desirous to make this study a 

 success. Fifty years' experience emboldens the author to offer 

 advice, and to give that information that has proved so success- 

 ful in his own investigations. Where the cultivation of Ferns 

 is attended with success it gives an interest that lasts through- 

 out the summer ; whereas with most other plants it is only the 

 delight of a few days. 



The general notion of a Fernery is the accumulation of 

 stones to form a Rockery, and the interspersion of a little soil. 

 The Ferns planted under such circumstances are often too dry, 

 and the first scarcity of rain is more or less fatal to them, 

 so much so as to cause them to drag on a miserable existence. 

 Ferns love water at their roots and a humid atmosphere, and 

 most of them require a shade — though not an overhead shade 

 which will prevent the rain falling on their fronds. Some 

 Ferneries are in borders on the north side of trees, and this 

 will suit them until the roots of the trees spread amongst 

 the Ferns and extract from the soil that which should feed the 

 Ferns. The most suitable place for nearly all Ferns is a border 

 on the north side of a wall, though some species do well if 

 exposed to the sun. There are times of drought, when under 

 the most favourable circumstances watering is an absolute 



