THE MOST USEFUL ORCHIDS 57 



plants carefully, and where the roots have gripped the pots the 

 latter may have to be broken and the roots detached by means of 

 a sharp knife. Old and large specimens, however carefully 

 handled, are sure to lose a number of roots, especially if they are 

 divided into several portions. In all cases where root disturbance 

 is severe extra care in watering and shading until the plants are 

 re-established will be amply repaid. A point worth remembering 

 is that roots are the more easily detached from the pot if the latter 

 is soaked in tepid water for an hour before the operation. 



Use clean pots. If new pots are used they must be soaked 

 in water for several hours previously, and then be allowed to dry. 

 The drainage should extend to about one-third the depth of the 

 pot. Cover this with a layer of sphagnum or peat fibre to prevent 

 the finer portions of the potting material from working down 

 among and blocking up the drainage. On this place a small 

 amount of the potting compost, and then, holding the plant in the 

 left hand, lower the roots into the pot and work the compost 

 among and around them. Add more material and press it firmly 

 as the work proceeds, completely covering the roots up to their 

 attachment to the " crown " of the plant. It is neither necessary 

 or desirable that the " crown " or " neck '' of a Cypripedium should 

 be raised above the level of the rim of the pot, nor need it be 

 mounded up after the fashion of Odontoglossums or Cattleyas. 

 When potting is finished the compost should be level, and half an 

 inch or so below the rim of the pot, so as to allow an abundant 

 supply of water to be given and ensure that it passes through the 

 compost. 



A minimum night temperature of 50 degrees, ranging to 80 

 degrees by day in bright warm weather, will suit the newly potted 

 plants, and if the house and stages are frequently damped and 

 shading is given whenever necessary, there will be little need for 



