20 THE ORCHID-GROWER'S MANUAL. 



to each flower-spike, with a piece of wadding round the stick 

 when tied. 



Sobralia macrantha is a bad plant to travel, if not properly 

 tied. There should be a strong stick to each flowering bulb, 

 and tied firmly ; and also one to the flower-stalk, with a 

 piece of wadding close to the flowers j then tie the stalk 

 firmly to the stick, and allow nothing to rub against the 

 flowers. 



Peristeria elata. This should be treated in the same way 

 as Phajus. 



Cypripediums require a small stick to each flower-stalk. 

 All the Lycaste, and other Orchids that flower in the same 

 way, require similar support for their flowers. 



The best mode of conveyance for Orchids is a spring van 

 with a cover on the top. In placing the plants in the van, I 

 always put some hay between each pot, to keep them firm and 

 prevent their rubbing against each other. 



Treatment during the Time of Rest. 



Rest, as has been elsewhere stated, is of great importance 

 to Orchids, as well as other things. No plant will continue 

 long in good health without it. My practice is to give them 

 a long season of rest, generally from November to the 

 middle of February. During this time the temperature of 

 the East India house should be regulated so as to keep it 

 as near as possible at 60 by night, and 65 by day ; but by 

 sun heat the temperature will rise a few degrees higher. 

 Air must then be given so as to keep it about 65; but 

 a few degrees of solar warmth above this point will do no 

 harm. A little air should be given on every fine day, in 

 order to dry up damp ; but the air must be admitted close 

 to the hot-water pipes, so that it may become warm on 

 entering the house. As to those plants that come from the 

 hotter parts of India, the temperature should not be allowed 

 to go below 60. The Mexican house should range from 50 



