=Spores.=--Ferns, lycopodiums and selaginellas are often grown from spores. The general conditions adapted to the germination of seeds are also suitable for the germination of spores, but extra care must be taken with the drainage. If a pot is used, it should be half or more filled with drainage material, and the soil should be rendered loose by the addition of bits of brick, charcoal, cinders or other porous materials. The surface soil should be fine and uniform. Some place a thin layer of brick dust upon the surface, in which the spores are sown. It is a frequent practice to bake the soil to destroy other spores which might cause troublesome growths. The spores should be sprinkled upon the surface and should not be covered. The pot should be set in a saucer of water and it should be covered by paper or a pane of glass if the sun strikes it. Better results are obtained if the pot or pan is placed inside a propagating-frame or under a bell-glass. In place of earth, a block or small cubes of firm peat or sandstone may be employed. The block is placed in a saucer of water and the spores are sown upon its surface. Water should not be applied directly to the spores, as it is apt to dislodge them. The period of germination varies in different species, but three to six weeks may be considered the ordinary limits. While still very small, the plantlets should be pricked out, and for some time thereafter they should be subjected to the same conditions as before. Spores are so exceedingly small and light that the greatest care must be exercised in growing them. In order to gather them, the fronds may be cut as soon as the sori or fruit-dots turn brown, and stored in close boxes or paper bags. Note.--For tables of weights and longevities of seeds and quantities required for given areas, consult Horticulturist's Rule-Book. CHAPTER II. SEPARATION. =Separation.=--The act or process of multiplying plants by means of naturally detached asexual organs, or the state or condition of being so multiplied. Separation is effected by means of bulbs, bulbels, bulb-scales, bulblets, corms, tubers, offsets, crowns and sometimes by buds.