TREE FERNS^ 37 



to character, but they vary very much; the only sure 

 method is to root the offsets from the stem. L. attenuata, 

 which has soft green fronds with a rosy pink shade when 

 young, can be propagated in the same manner. Sphag- 

 num moss with some sand mixed with it, if bound round 

 the base, will secure some roots before taking the young 

 plants off from the parent. Although the Tree-ferns 

 love atmospheric moisture below, most of them will bear 

 exposure to the sun, and heavy shading is injurious, 

 especially during the Autumn. 



