86 ORCHIDS, 



sends out new shoots towards the wires, it is easy to 

 give them another direction, by inserting a bit of cork 

 between the pseudo-bulbs, and forcing the plant a little 

 to one side. The drainage of baskets should not be like 

 that of pots, but far lighter, in order that the flower-buds 

 may easily push through it ; sphagnous moss is the best. 



This is particularly the case with Stanhopeas, Acinetas, 

 and plants of like growth. It is also an object to have 

 the basket as light as possible, for facility in suspend- 

 ing it. 



It is not advisable to grow very large plants in baskets, 

 both on account of the weight, and the difficulty of re- 

 potting without destroying the basket and injuring the 

 roots. 



In choosing the baskets, some regard should be paid 

 to the nature of the roots of the plants to be grown in 

 them. Many East Indian Orchids which have large long 

 roots, such as Aerides and Saccolabiums, should be placed 

 in deep baskets, and the soil should be rather composed 

 of peat and potsherds, than of moss and charcoal. 



Those plants with descending flower-stems, such as 

 Stanhopeas and Acinetas, should be placed in shallow 

 baskets, and there should be nothing in the soil which 

 could stop the descent of the flower-bud. 



Baskets should be suspended where they will not shed 

 drip upon the other plants. They should be frequently 

 examined, and great care should be taken not to allow 

 them to dry up. 



The hook figured on page 57 is very useful for hang- 

 ing baskets, as thus they can be turned round without 

 lifting them from the nail. 



