ORCHIDS 289 



not satisfied specialists, however, and a number of hybrids have 

 been raised, very beautiful in many cases, but dearer. 



Dendrobiums are not difficult Orchids to grow, and they are 

 certainly one of the kinds which the beginner should choose. 

 There are, however, considerable differences of habit amongst them, 

 and while those of erect habit, like nobile, can be conveniently 

 grown in pots, others, which droop or, like Phalaenopsis, need 

 to be near the light, may be grown in baskets made of Teak. 

 The noble thyrsiflorum thrives in an Orchid pan, which is a wide 

 pot perforated at the sides with large holes ; these pans may also 

 be used instead of baskets, and suspended, if desired. 



Imported pieces of Dendrobes should be treated much in the 

 same way as Cattleyas that is, started 

 in crocks in a moist, close house, and 

 then potted in crocks, sphagnum moss, 

 and fibrous peat. Pieces of charcoal are 

 commonly incorporated in potting large 

 plants. They like heat while making 

 their growth, and should therefore be 



.. . . ORCHIDS AN ORCHID PAN 



put in the warmest house available. 



When, however, they cease producing fresh leaves, which may be 

 taken as an indication that the resting period is at hand, they 

 should be put in a cooler house, and given little water. 



The last of our quartette, the Odontoglossum, is a magnificent 

 Orchid. The flowers combine large size with beautiful colours. 

 The most popular and important species of all, crispum, or 

 Alexandrae as it used to be called, is a glorious plant. The 

 flowers, which are produced freely in spring, are of exquisite 

 shape and refined texture. The colours, though not brilliant, are 

 charming; and the white or ivory body is frequently broken by 

 bars of brown. The species is largely imported, and pieces can 

 be bought at the price of ordinary herbaceous plants. Forms 

 with special markings have sometimes a high value, and as they 



