7k Ferns and Fern Culture. 
off water drained to the bottom. A layer of broken 
pots, cinders, or gravel should be put at the bottom, about 
lin. thick. On this should be placed moss or leaves, then 
very rough compost, with finer at the top. (For kind 
of compost see under heading ‘‘Compost for Wardian 
Case.’’) 
It is well for the soil to be a little higher in the centre 
than at the sides; it should be pressed down moderately 
firmly, to prevent its sinking afterwards. (For Ferns 
suitable for cases see list further on.) After being planted, 
the Ferns should be well watered, Filmy Ferns overhead, 
other kinds only at the roots.. Tepid water should always 
be given. 
Fern STAND AND GLASS. FERN STAND, 
The case should be placed as near the window as 
possible. Facing north is the best aspect and facing south 
the worst. The Ferns must have all the light possible, 
but must be shaded from the hot sun. After a thorough 
watering, little attention will be required for some time. 
They should be examined every two or thres weeks, and 
as soon as they appear to be getting dry they should he 
well watered, Care must be exercised not to over-water 
them, as fungus or mould will make its appearance, and 
the fronds will damp off. When too wet, a green slimy 
growth sometimes comes on the soil, and spreads to the 
