CATTLEYA. 171 



C. AclandicB, C. superba, and other small growing kinds, which 

 grow best on blocks with a small quantity of moss, or in 

 small pans with the same compost as for pots. If the accom- 

 modation is limited, all the kinds may be grown on blocks, 

 but they will then require more attention, and seldom thrive 

 so well as they do in pots or baskets. They require a good 

 depth of drainage ; so that the pots or pans should be filled 

 about half full of potsherds, and these covered with a layer 

 of moss, the remaining space being filled up with peat, 

 a few lumps of charcoal being added, taking care always to 

 have the plants elevated well above the rim. 



We grow nearly all the Cattleyas in the Brazilian house, 

 and are accustomed to give them a good supply of heat and 

 atmospheric moisture, and not too much water at the roots 

 while they are growing. Water applied to the roots about 

 three times a week will be sufficient for those in the most 

 vigorous state of growth ; too much water is apt to cause the 

 bulbs to rot. We find it a good plan, while the Cattleyas are 

 in vigorous growth during the summer months, to frequently 

 syringe between the pots on every fine warm day. So long as 

 the soil remains moist, no water is required ; and when the 

 surface of the soil becomes dry, water should be applied to 

 the roots — not to the bulbs, as it is apt to injure them greatly. 

 When the plants have made their growth they should be 

 allowed to rest, and be kept rather dry, giving them just 

 sufficient water to prevent their shrivelling. 



Cattleyas require all the hght possible, therefore a thin 

 shading should be used ; even this need only be lowered when 

 the sun is shining during the hottest part of the day, as a 

 little morning or afternoon sun, say up till eight o'clock in 

 the morning and after four or five in the afternoon, in the 

 summer time, will be found very beneficial to them; also 

 keep the plants as near the light as possible, and give them 



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