56 



The Fcm Garden. 



CHAPTER IX. 



MANAGEMENT OF FERN CASES. 



I HE Danger Signal is hoisted here to 

 attract attention. From first to last you 

 must guard against drowning your pets, 

 for that is the calamity that befals 

 thousands of ferns in cases. It is the 

 one only important point to be constantly 

 kept in mind, it is the only big rock you 

 will have to encounter in your pleasant 

 voyage of discovery round the room in 

 search of fern island. So long as the soil is moderately 

 damp water need not be given to the roots ; but at almost 

 any time a slight shower over the fronds by means of a 

 syringe will be beneficial. In winter the syringe must be 

 cautiously used, and if there are any gold or silver ferns 

 in the case, care should be taken to prevent a single 

 drop of water falling upon them, as the farina with 

 which they are covered ought never to be washed off. 

 Air must be given regularly and with judgment ; a brisk 

 breeze will do much mischief, and as dust is to be kept 

 out as much as possible, do not open your case while 

 sweeping is going on, or when, through open doors and 

 windows, a young hurricane is enjoying his gambols. 

 Beautiful effects may be produced by a judicious use 



