FERNS — FREESIA — FUCHSIA 373 
Several species of pteris, especially P. serrulata, are valuable house 
ferns, but require a warmer place than those mentioned above. They 
will also thrive better in a shady or ill-lighted corner. 
Perfect drainage and care in watering have more to do with the 
successful growing of ferns than any special mixture of soils. If the 
drainage material in the bottom of the pot or box is sufficient, there is 
little danger of overwatering; but water-logged soil is always to be 
avoided. Do not use clay soils. Ferns need protection from the 
direct sunshine, and also a moist atmosphere. They thrive well in 
a close glass box, or window-garden, if the conditions can be kept 
equable. 
Freesia. — One of the best and most easily handled tender winter- 
flowering bulbs; height 12 or 15 inches. The white form (Freesia 
refracta alba) is the best. 
The white or yellowish bell-shaped flowers of freesia are produced 
on slender stalks just above the foliage, to the number of six to eight 
in acluster. They are very fragrant, and last for a considerable time 
when picked. The bulbs are small, and look as though they could not 
produce a growth of foliage and flowers, but even the smallest mature 
bulb will prove satisfactory. Several bulbs should be planted to- 
gether in a pot, box, or pan, in October, if wanted for the holidays, or 
later if wanted at Easter. The plants bloom from ten to twelve weeks 
from planting, under ordinary care. 
No special treatment is required; keep the plants cool and moist 
through the growing season. The soil should contain a little sand 
mixed with fibrous loam, and the pot should be well drained. After 
flowering, gradually withhold water and the tops will die down, after 
which the roots may be shaken out and rested until time to plant in 
fall. Care should be taken to keep them perfectly dry. 
The bulbs increase rapidly from offsets. Plants may also be grown 
from seed, which should be sown as soon as ripe, giving blooming plants 
the second or third year. 
Fuchsia. — Well-known window or greenhouse shrub, treated as 
an herbaceous subject; many interesting forms; late winter, spring 
and summer. 
