JAN.-FEB., 1920.] THE ORCHID REVIEW. 13. 
maintaining the proper temperatures in the various houses, providing 
suitable atmospheric conditions, and the cleaning of the plants and houses, 
so that when the growing season comes round everything can start without 
any impediment. For the present, everything should be kept as quiet as 
possible, no attempt being made to push plants into growth or flower, for 
premature growth made during the winter is weak and unsatisfactory. 
VENTILATION of the different houses is essential whenever possible, as. 
no plants can thrive and: grow luxuriantly without fresh air. At this 
season some discretion must be used in its admission, but it must be done 
by some means every day, as a dry stagnant atmosphere is most injurious. 
The observant cultivator will soon find the difference between a badly 
ventilated and a judiciously ventilated house, not only by his own personal 
comfort, but in the health and vigour of his plants. It is astonishing what 
can be accomplished by opening a single ventilator, if only an inch or two, 
for a space of half an hour or so during the day. The houses vary 
considerably in their requirements, according to the plants grown in them, 
so that no definite rule can be laid down. Orchids, like animals, must have 
fresh air, but, like them, should not be exposed to draughts, which must be 
avoided at all times. To those who do not succeed exactly as they would 
like, I urge a closer study of the atmospheric conditions of the houses. 
ATMOSPHERIC MOISTURE is another essential factor which must be 
regulated according to the outside conditions and the amount of heat in the 
respective houses. Should the outside conditions be clear and bright, or 
should it have been necessary to use considerable fire heat, owing to frost, 
more moisture is required than when the outside atmosphere is dull and 
heavily charged with moisture. The two great things to avoid are a hot, 
parched atmosphere, and a cold saturated one; both are highly dangerous, 
and much harm may accrue from either. 
WATERING.—The greatest care and attention must now be taken in the 
application of water to the compost. Many plants will be at rest, and these 
only require sufficient water to keep them plump, and prevent them from 
shrivelling; others will be growing, and require water whenever they 
become dry. A recognition of this difference is one of the secrets of 
successful cultivation. Too much water is as bad as too little, and both 
extremes are dangerous, though the latter is the lesser of the two evils. The 
application of water to the compost is one which should have the greatest 
consideration, especially during the dull, dark days of the winter. A safe 
rule to observe is to keep the plants rather on the dry side until growth or 
root action commences, trusting principally to-the humidity in the atmos- 
phere to assist in bringing the plants safely through the winter months. 
Many give their plants too much water during the winter, and not sufficient 
whilst in full growth. | Most Orchids require rest, and their resting season 
