THE HARD FERN. 
14 7 
is often found growing in stiff clay soils, but it 
rejoices most in fibrous soils in which leaf-mould 
largely abounds. It will not be too particular 
concerning the soil in which you grow it, but 
the nearer you can approach to the conditions 
under which it is found growing in greatest 
luxuriance in its native woods, heaths, and bogs, 
the greater success will attend your cultivation 
of it. 
