CHAPTER XI. 



CULTURE OF EPIPHYTAL ORCHIDS. 



THE greater part of the Orchids grown in our stoves 

 are epiphytal, and are cultivated in pots, in bas- 

 kets, or on wood, according to their nature. 



We have already given, when treating the subject of 

 potting, many hints upon the growth of these plants in 

 pots. The chief points to be regarded are, to secure 

 good drainage, to elevate the plant about one inch above 

 the rim of the pot, and to support the plant if the roots 

 are not long enough or too weak to sustain it. 



The material to be used is peat, broken rather large, 

 potsherds, and moss. 



Directions as to the mode of growth of different 

 plants will be given when we describe the plants. 



It not unfrequently happens that different species of 

 the same family require to be grown in a different man- 

 ner, some having upright, and others pendent flower- 

 stems. In this chapter we would more particularly treat 

 of the grow r th of Orchids in baskets, or on wood. 



Baskets may be of wood, metal, or pottery. The best 

 for the plants are made of round sticks of wood, about 

 one to two inches in diameter. 



The best wood for baskets is maple, apple, cedar, or 

 oak, and the best baskets are those of a square shape. 



The wood should be cut into such lengths as the size 

 of the basket may require, but they should not be too 



