Division. 
37 
least, doubtful. When Ferns are to be propagated 
by the division of the crown, it is necessary to allow 
sufficient time for its full development into two or 
more distinct centres of growth, when it will be 
found that each of these is provided with its own 
set of roots, and is really a perfect plant. Though 
some advocate dividing the crowns with a knife, yet 
it will be far better for the plants if they are simply 
pulled in pieces, first having washed away the soil 
so that the roots may be readily seen. It is also 
Fig. 27. Scolopendrium vulgare Kelwayii, one of the prettiest 
forms of the common Hartstongue Rnown to cultivation. 
sometimes deemed advisable by a similar means to 
regulate the growth of the plants which are of less 
graceful appearance, when through the multiplicity 
of crowns a perfect crowd, developing in all direc- 
tions, is produced. Early spring (March), just before 
the plants start into fresh growth, is the best time 
to propagate Ferns by division; the young subjects 
then have plenty of time thoroughly to establish 
themselves during the ensuing season. British 
Ferns thus propagated should be kept in a cold frame 
after the operation has been performed, as 
artificial heat is not in any way beneficial to them. 
