Fig. 1 shows a section through a part of a case for rearing ferns. The bottom is of deal, with a polished mahogany edging or rim which forms a base, the bottom being tongued to it on each side and fixed. The bottom stands 1/2 in. below the rim. to receive the tray A. The latter is 2 1/2 in. deep, with a hole in the centre to convey superfluous moisture to the zinc safe B underneath, and is covered with a thin layer of broken brick, or other similar material, and with 2 in. of mould, in which the ferns are planted. The safe slides between the feet C, on which the case rests. The zinc tray should be first fitted into the bottom and secured with screws, the heads soldered over, the channel edging D bent to fit the domical glass at each end, and also mitred at the angles to fit the rails on the base, composed of the same section material. Well solder the angles together, then put screws along the inside of the channel into the base, as shown, and run a little fine solder along the edge to fix it to the tray. Then put the glass into position by slightly extending the framework at the ends, and bring the frame tight to it. Take a piece of bell tube the same length as the out to out of frame and solder at each end, keeping the joint in the tube at the top.

A piece of ornamental creating, slipped into this joint and soldered to the tube, will give a good finish to the case. Make the doors at each end out of angle pieces to fit the frame as shown, and hinge on the side. The glass in these doors must be left short from the top for the admission of air, otherwise the plants will be stifled.

Constructing a Fern Case.