For those who start out on a Fern collecting expedition, one of the long narrow trowels will be found to be extremely useful. A proper vasculum is, of course, of service, but this is sometimes apt to get in the way, and it will not accommodate very large Ferns. Mr. C. T. Druery, who has done an enormous amount of Fern collecting at home and abroad, declares that he contents himself with some old newspapers and a ball of string. In this way bundles of the plants are easily made, and in most cases these can be readily carried about. Great care is necessary when removing the Ferns to do as little damage as possible to the roots. If it is desired that the plant should settle into its new home as quickly as possible, it is an excellent plan to take away with it a certain amount of soil. Of course, considerations of weight have to be taken into account, but the more mould round the roots the better. Never grasp a Fern plant from above and try to pull it away, as this will be almost sure to result in damage. Rock Ferns are often exceedingly difficult to remove, owing to the manner in which the roots of these plants spread to great distances in the crevices. Yet without a large amount of their roots these Ferns can never be satisfactorily established. In such cases a chisel and a mallet will often come in highly useful, as in many instances if the rock is chipped away the Fern can be readily taken from its position. As the specimens are secured it is most important to take steps to protect them from withering. First of all, wrap a portion of damp newspaper round the roots, and then tie up with dry paper. When on a holiday the Ferns may be kept alive and in good condition for a week or so, if they are placed in some shady corner with their roots protected in the manner described. An occasional sprinkling of water will help to prevent any withering. Of course, for packing it is often necessary to cut off some of the largest fronds; and there is not much lost by so doing, for these often become very much damaged, and will probably die when the plant is established in its new quarters. The question is often asked at what time of the year may Ferns be removed. Nearly all our native species will suffer transplanting at almost any season if the business is carried out on the lines indicated. Of course, most specimens are probably taken up in the summer when the handsome foliage attracts the eye. In some ways this is the least satisfactory time on account of the hot dry weather, but by protecting the roots there is no reason why the specimens should flag to a harmful extent. Of course, newly acquired Ferns will pay for extra attention in the way of watering until they have secured a proper roothold.