62 ORCHIDS. 
Many in this country have supposed that these tropical 
plants could not be successfully cultivated here, for the want of 
sufficient heat. This is a mistake, especially with respect to the 
classes denominated “cool orchids.” A maximum temperature 
during hot summer days is more harmful than one very much 
lower. Many Odontoglossums, Masdevallias, and Oncidiums suffer 
as much from summer heat as would the Phalenopsis from too cold 
a temperature. Gardeners often say that an orchid is very fouchy ; 
that it will do well in only one particular place. No doubt the 
heat is too great in some places, and for some particular plants, 
and the temperature too low for others. 
“The Odontoglossums,” says Mr. Rand, “are not of easy cul- 
ture; they perish if kept hot. The heat of our summers is a great 
obstacle to the successful cultivation of the cool species, how to 
overcome which is hardly yet known. Perhaps the best way to 
attempt their culture would be in houses facing the north, from 
which, during the hottest weather, lights could be removed and 
replaced by canvas on rollers. They all need free air, clean potting 
and are hurt by sour soil.” 
There is, in truth, need of several houses with different degrees 
of temperature, so that each species shall enjoy a climate as nearly 
as possible like that of its native land. The Odontoglossums are 
all evergeens, and must not be allowed to dry up, but be carefully 
watered. “To obtain success in the culture of this beautiful genus 
of plants is worth any labor, which will be well repaid by the 
stately grandeur of some of the species, the delicate beauty and 
charming fragrance of others.” 
Indulged in what they wish, they soon supply 
Large foliage, overshadowing golden flowers, 
Blown on the summit of the apparent fruit. 
