20 
BRITISH FERNS. 
silvery appearance/* In this rich light open compost 
the roots of the ferns run freely, and the caudices spread 
in all directions at their own wild will. Where good 
stones are difficult of attainment for the rock-work, 
scoriae will answer the same purpose, but the appearance 
is less pleasing. It is highly desirable to obtain mossy 
stones, as they best imitate natural scenery. 
On the side of the rock- work facing the north near 
the base, such species should be planted as require 
moisture, and higher up the bank those should be placed 
to whom shade is the principal desideratum. A flat bed 
at the foot of the north bank would suit the Osmunda 
regalis and the Nephrodium Thelypteris the best. On 
the south slope the denizens of the common hedgebank 
will grow, — the common Polypody, various species of 
Aspidium and Nephrodium , the Asplenium Trichomanes 
and Adiantum-nigrum ; and here, if anywhere, the As- 
plenium Rut a-mur aria will flourish. Where the species 
requires peculiar soil, it can be put in with it. The dead 
fronds should be allowed to remain through winter to 
protect the roots from the frost ; in the spring they 
should be carefully removed, fresh soil added, and the 
neatness of the fernery thus ensured. 
If a more fanciful form for the fernery be preferred, it 
may be made in a circular shape, an opening being left 
through the bank to enter within the circle. River 
stones or flints may be built in rows round the mound 
within and without, so as to form miniature terraces. 
Common earth, even clay, will do for the basis of the 
mound, so that a sufficient depth of suitable compost for 
the roots of the ferns be superimposed. On the flat 
ground in the centre the marsh species will flourish well ; 
the rest may be planted according to their preferences 
