WOODSIA ILVEX8IS. 279 
ia it as you approach towards the top, keeping the 
crown of the plant above the pot's rim, and round it 
placing a few small stones. Great care must be exercised 
so that the plants do not become water-logged, for this 
is almost sure death to them, they disliking nothing 
more than stagnated moisture. What moisture is given 
is best given by means of placing the pots in a 
saucer of water for a few minutes. When the moisture 
is seen rising through the surface remove the saucer, 
and set the plants again to drain. 
The same directions may be followed in pi anting these 
Ferns in a rockery or Fernery, placing the pieces of 
rock or stone firmly round the base of the plant, so as 
to keep the soil firm to the roots. The plants may be 
increased by division, which will require great care 
and nicety. They may also be increased by the fruc- 
tification. They succeed remarkably well in the close, 
warm temperature of a stove.'but will do quite as well, 
and perhaps better, in a greenhouse. 
