250 
THE FERN PARADISE. 
be easily obtained from a nurseryman for render¬ 
ing light and friable the Fern-compost—is all 
that can be made readily available. Under these 
circumstances a chemical fertilizer—such, for 
instance, as c Amies’ chemical manure ’—will 
furnish a desirable substitute for the fertilizing 
properties of leaf-mould. 
If, however, the opportunity should offer, the 
Fern-lover who desires to unravel the secret of 
successful Fern-growth should examine for him¬ 
self the constituents of the soil in those places 
where Ferns are found growing in greatest 
luxuriance. In this way Nature herself will teach 
many useful and valuable lessons, which will 
greatly aid in the loving work of Fern-culture, 
