The plant will thrive well on a block of wood or on a raft. This latter 
plan is a good system to cultivate the plant upon, as it enables the flowers to 
be seen to the best advantage; but being grown in this way it requires more 
attention in watering than when cultivated in a pot, which was the old-fashioned 
way in which we used to grow this species years ago. During the time of its 
active growth the block or rafts should be taken down and well soaked in a tub 
of water in order that a greater amount of moisture may be administered to the 
roots than can be given by syringing; but every day in summer, and even twice 
daily during the very hot weather, syringing overhead will be necessary. After 
growth is completed, and during the winter season, very little water is necessary, 
Just sufficient to maintain the bulbs and leaves in a plump condition being all that 
is required, save the flowering plants, which, of course, require more, to enable 
them to properly develop their blossoms. Some living sphagnum moss must be 
kept about its roots, and it should be kept in a growing condition. If the moss 
should decay or become dead, remove it, and place some new and sweet material 
about the roots, as they cannot form strong and vigorous bulbs with any decayed 
moss or soil about them. The Cattleya house will be most congenial to its 
development, giving it all the light possible, save in the full sunshine, when a 
light shade is necessary to prevent the leaves from becoming disfigured. 
