18 orchid-grower's manual. 



employ slate pots, but they are not, in my opinion, so good 

 for Orchids as those made of clay. 



In preparing the pots for large plants a small pot should be 

 turned upside down in the bottom of the larger one, which 

 should then be filled in with potsherds or charcoal broken up 

 into pieces about two inches square for large plants — smaller 

 plants not having the pieces so large ; then introduce potsherds 

 till within three or four inches of the rim, and afterwards put 

 on a layer of moss to prevent the peat from impeding the 

 drainage, and to allow the water to pass off quickly. This is 

 of great importance, for if not attended to, the water will 

 become stagnant, and the soil sodden, which is fatal to the 

 health of the plant. The gi'and point to be observed in the 

 successful culture of Orchids, as well as most other plants, is 

 good drainage ; without that it is hopeless to try to keep the 

 plants long in a healthy condition. 



The best material for potting the different kinds of Epiphytes 

 in, is good rough fibrous peat and sphagnum moss ; after the 

 layer of moss is applied, fill up the pot with peat and live 

 sphagnum moss mixed together, and bear in mind not to press 

 the soil too close, for I consider too firm potting to be very 

 injurious. The peat should be broken into lumps about the 

 size of a hen's egg ; and I always use broken potsherds or 

 charcoal mixed with the peat. The plant should be set so as 

 to be two or three inches above the rim of the pot, taking care 

 to have the base of all the pseudobulbs above the soil ; then 

 put some peat and moss on the top of the roots so as to cover 

 them, employing a few small pegs to keep the soil firmly on 

 the pot. After the plants are potted fix a stick in the centre 

 of each, to keep it firm. In shifting, carefully shake off all 

 the old soil without injuring the roots. After potting be 

 careful not to give too much water at first ; but when the 

 plants begin to make fresh roots they may have a good 



