17 



Thus far we have only alluded to moisture at the roots ; 

 we now wish to call your attention to moisture in the atmos- 

 phere in which plants are grown. There are many plants 

 such as the Cacti and succulents, that will flourish admirably 

 in a dry atmosphere, but nearly all plants of rapid growth and 

 those that carry a great quantity of foliage, require a moist 

 atmosphere. This may be produced in different ways ; first by 

 placing shallow pans filled with water among the plants or on 

 the floors; by placing damp moss or earth on the shelf or table 

 where the plants are growing ; or by sprinkling the foliage of 

 the plants; either way irill work satisfactorily. Among the 

 benefits to be derived by a moist atmosphere are, first— the 

 plants will not require more than half the quantity of water 

 at the roots, or in other words, the moist atmosphere will not 

 consume the moisture that is in the pots i. e., the food of the 

 roots. Second, the insect known as the "red spider'' cannot 

 live in it. Third, it produces an effect upon the health and 

 growth of house plants ; so great that after being grown in 

 this way for a few months they are scarcely' recognizable as 

 the plants that were grown formerU' in a dry air. The luxuri- 

 ance of the foliage is sometimes astonishing. 



