POTTING FERNS 13 



compost, yet there is always an advantage in taking a 

 little trouble to properly prepare it, as it may save a lot 

 of trouble later on. One thing which should be avoided 

 is to lay the compost on boards that may spread fungus. 



Potting Ferns 



Cultural success depends largely on careful attention 

 to small details. The soil may be properly prepared 

 and in good condition, yet there are other matters which 

 require consideration. The time of potting may vary 

 considerably, and young plants of the free-growing sorts 

 will require potting on two or three times during the 

 year, but for the established plants of the choice sorts 

 repotting once a year will be often enough ; and the 

 best time to do this is in the spring, after they have made 

 a start into new growth. There may be some difference 

 of opinion on this point. Some authorities say it should 

 be done while the Ferns are dormant. My experience, 

 however, has been that it is better to repot after they 

 have started into growth. When inactive there is 

 always a chance of the new soil getting sour before the 

 roots penetrate it. It is the same when dividing those 

 which have the tufted crowns ; they get away much 

 better if done after they have started into growth. 

 Many of the Adiantums, which may have grown too large 

 for their pots, may be divided, if it is not convenient to 

 give them larger pots, and if done carefully they will 

 not suffer from being disturbed. It may be necessary to 

 use a knife to divide the crowns, but the roots should be 

 pulled apart ; if cut straight through some of the best, 

 or feeders will be lost. 



Taking those with a single crown, or caudex. Many 

 of the Pterises and others make new roots from the stem 

 as it advances, and some of the old roots at the bottom 

 of the pots may be dispensed with. It will be quite safe 



