As many of the hard-wooded plants are impatient of fire heat and a
confined atmosphere, it is advisable to use no more artificial heat
than is absolutely necessary. The drying effects of fire heat must be
counteracted by a supply of moisture; the moisture becomes condensed on
the glass and falls in drips, that are apt to spoil the beauty of the
flowers, and to injure the foliage of the plants. The best corrective
for such unfavourable results is to be found in keeping the temperature
as low as may be consistent with the safety of the plants, and in
withholding moisture as much as possible whenever the glass is affected
by frost. See that the young stock of Heliotropes, Scarlet Geraniums,
Persian Cyclamens, and other such flowers, that are grown especially
for winter, are accommodated with a light, airy situation, and receive
regular attention as regards watering. Avoid watering the Pelargoniums
until they are thoroughly dry, and keep down insects.