THE FLORAL WORLD AND GARDEN GUIDE. 



163 



leaf-mould, sand, and cow-dung rotted to a powder, well incorporated 

 together, and used in a moderately rough state. The pots should be 

 about half filled with crocks, and then filled up with the compost to 

 within about an inch of the rim. 



The winter temperature of the several divisions should average 

 70°, 60°, and 45° respectively, with a range of five degrees each way, 

 according to the weather. As an example, the temperature of the 

 hottest house in mild weather may rise to 75°, and in frosty weather 

 fall to 65 3 , provided the transition is effected in a gradual manner. 

 The summer temperature should be on an average ten degrees higher. 

 An abundance of atmospheric humidity is essential during the 

 summer season ; consequently, the paths and walls require sprinkling 

 frequently, and in very bright weather plants not in bloom may be 

 syringed overhead lightly when the house is shut up for the night. 

 Liberal supplies of water during 

 the same period will also be 

 necessary ; and if the pots are 

 drained as here advised, there 

 will not be much danger of the 

 com post becoming sour from over 

 saturation, provided the water is 

 applied in moderation. When 

 at rest, the compost must not 

 be allowed to become quite dry, 

 but kinds with thick fleshy 

 pseudo-bulbs, such as the Cat- 

 tleyas, Dendrobiuins, and On- 

 cidiums, require very little mois- 

 ture indeed, and it will be safer 

 to err on the side of keeping 

 them too dry than in watering 

 them too freely. iErides, Van- 

 das, and Pkalaenopsis,and others 

 of a similar character, which are 

 not furnishedwith pseudo-bulbs, 

 must not be kept so dry at the 

 roots, or theywiil suffer severely, 

 and the safest rule to lay down 

 is, that the compost should be 

 kept moderately moist through- 

 out the winter. 



From March until the end 

 of August, Orchids require 

 shading, which can be accom- 

 plished by tacking stout tiffany or thin canvas over the roof per- 

 manently, or by means of roller-blinds, which are preferable, ex- 

 cepting that a considerable amount of labour is requisite in attend- 

 ing to them. Air should be, excepting during the summer season, 

 admitted at the top, unless special provisions are made for warming 

 it previous to its coming in contact with the plants. 



Some kinds are best suited for baskets, and for growing upon 



IMPROVED ORCHID BASKET. 



