INTRODUCTION* 



is, in fact, simply a place secure from frost ; for when the 

 barometer falls so low that freezing is apprehended, then a 

 fire to heat the flues will raise the temperature within the 

 house, causing the plants to enjoy a propitious climate, 

 whilst all out-of-doors feels the severity of the weather. 

 Here the still and mild air allows vegetation to go on, — not 

 to live merely, but to flourish and to arrive at perfection, — 

 and, contrasted with the state of the garden, the flowers 

 seem doubly valuable and more exquisitely beautiful at this 

 season than in the height of summer, when the profusion 

 makes each individual plant of less value. A visit to this 

 crystal palace in miniature, when out-of-door pursuits can- 

 not be followed, is a source of pleasure which few will deny 

 themselves who have the means to gratify it. 



In the erection of a greenhouse, and the choice of a suit- 

 able locality for it, no plans can be given here, as the style 

 of house, aspect, and size must depend entirely upon cir- 

 cumstances, and are better left to experienced persons on 

 the spot. It is therefore supposed that the house is built 

 in the best possible manner ; but it is advised, where prac- 

 ticable, that it should be divided into two parts, one to be 

 kept warmer than the other for Ferns — which also love a 

 moister atmosphere than most other plants, — or for forcing 



