The Fernery at the Fireside. 45 



the story j but Sine qua Non is the master of them here; 

 and they comprise cases of several kinds, some rather 

 gigantic in dimensions, besides vases fitted with lanterns 

 of plate glass, in which not only climbing ferns and ferns 

 of many other kinds, but climbing ivies, lycopodiums, 

 and such odd things as the artillery plant are grown. 

 I have had to make as well as furnish plant cases. 

 We have between us managed to exhibit a considerable 

 number, and step by step we have acquired some very 

 definite ideas about them, which I shall endeavour to 

 set forth categorically. 



In the case of fern shades which fit into glass dishes, 

 and which, as long as there is water lodged in the rim 

 into which the lower edge of the shade rests, are air- 

 tight, air must be given three times a week by removing 

 the shade altogether for an hour or so. This allows 

 the excess of moisture to dry off the foliage, and prevents 

 mould ; and the glass getting dry in the meanwhile, it 

 is prepared to take up a fresh supply of moisture" from 

 the soil when replaced, which is equivalent to a circula- 

 tion of water as well as a change of air. This air- 

 giving, however, must be regulated by discretion, for if 

 the air of the room is hot and dry sudden exposure of 

 the plants to it may do them harm. Moreover, it is a 

 very easy matter to remove the glass and forget it, the 

 result being, perhaps, complete destruction of all the 

 more tender fronds, and the disfigurement of the affair 

 for a fortnight. Now, a very simple and expeditious 

 and effectual mode of ventilating consists in taking off 

 the glass, wiping it dry and bright, and replacing it at 

 once. There is then no fear of forgetting it. 



