CHAPTER XV, 



CULTURAL DIRECTIONS. 



LTHOUGrH it frequently happens that the conditions under 

 which plants grow spontaneously cannot be artificially produced, 

 the knowledge of the positions in which they grow naturally 

 is of the utmost importance in the successful cultivation of all 

 plants, to whatever family they may belong. With the exception 

 of a few kinds which really prefer exposed and airy situations, it may be safely 

 stated that the majority of Ferns are generally found forming a sort of under- 

 growth in woods and forests, or clinging to the sides of rocks, or again growing 

 by the sides of brooks and rivulets, but almost always under trees, which not 

 only afford them protection from the hot rays of the sun, but also shelter them 

 from the violence of strong winds. In these situations they luxuriate to such 

 an extent that when the same kinds are found growing accidentally in places 

 exposed to the direct action of the elements, they are difficult to identify. 

 Whether Ferns are cultivated in pots or in the open ground, these natural 

 conditions should, as much as possible, be imitated. The hardy Fernery should 

 therefore be situated, whenever practicable, in a naturally moist and cool spot, 

 and, strong light being in most cases objectionable, the neighbourhood of tall 

 deciduous trees should have preference over all other places. 



As regards Ferns requiring glass protection, it should be borne in mind 

 that, with few exceptions, exotic as well as hardy kinds love moisture and 

 shade. On that account the houses in which they are grown should, when- 

 ever possible, be disposed from north to south, so as to avoid the strong rays 

 of midday sun, while at the same time retaining all the light possible. 



