406 ON THE FERTILIZATION OF CATTLEYA LABIATA. 
where numberless pollen-tubes were observed in the position 
there shown; in another section made from the same capsule no 
tubes could be detected, although the ovules had enlarged in the 
same way. . 
From the foregoing series of observations, we are enabled to 
deduce the following general statements :— 
The impregnation of the ovules of Cattleya labiata, var. Mossie, 
under glass in the climate of London takes place from 75 to 90 
days after the pollination of the flower, the length of time being 
doubtless influenced by the state of the weather during the 
interval, and especially by the amount of direct sunlight the plants 
receive; the more direct sunlight, the shorter the interval, and 
vice verså. 
A proportion of the ovules only are fertilized; but how great 
that proportion is it is not possible to determine with certainty ; 
it is never probably much less than one half ; it probably varies 
from a little less to alittle more than one half. It is certain 
also that of the seeds which are apparently mature and good, à 
greater or less proportion of them failed to germinate under 
artificial conditions. ` 
It takes ahout twelve months, under the same conditions, to 
effect the maturation of the capsules; it being highly probable 
that during the winter months, when the temperature in which 
the plants are kept is comparatively low, and the amount of direct 
sunlight and sun-heat is at the minimum, there is a cessation of 
growth which is renewed as the summer months are approached. 
In bringing my notes to a close, permit me to say that I have 
simply endeavoured to bring before the Society at least some of the 
phenomena that occur in the fertilization of orchids, which, so far 
as I am aware, have not previously been observed; and if in so 
doing I have added ever so little to our knowledge of the won- 
derful processes by which Nature effects the reproduction of 
these remarkable plants, I shall feel amply repaid for the time 
given to the investigation. 
