Section 6. 
LIGHT. 
Wa\T is a very common idea that Ferns grow best 
i/ in dense shade. This, however, is altogether 
erroneous. It is true that some kinds of Filmy 
Ferns are found growing in comparatively 
dark places, but Ferns generally not only can do with an 
abundance of light but they are much better with it. 
A fernery should have in every case possible a north- 
ern aspect. A southern aspect is not good, because, 
unless shaded in some manner by trees or buildings, 
during the summer it receives the full glare of the sun, 
and means must then be taken to protect the plants from 
the strong light and scorching rays. A span-roof fernery 
should be built with its length running north and south, 
and all roofs should have a pitch of 45° or 50°. A flatter 
roof than this is likely to cause drip, which is as injurious 
to Ferns as to other plants. A lean-to fernery, with 
northern aspect, will require very little shading, even 
during summer, and not any during the greater portion 
of the year. The nearer the aspect is to the south, the 
more shading will be required. 
The rule is to provide the fullest possible amount of 
light at all times, merely shading, when actually neces- 
sary, to prevent very strong sunlight scorching or bleach- 
ing the foliage. 
From the beginning of September to the beginning 
of March, shading will not be required on a fernery of 
any aspect; on the other hand, the glass should be 
