172 THE ORCHID ‘REVIEW. [Nov,-Drc., 1920: 
again urge the necessity of moderation, always being sure that water is 
required before applying it. The dangers of the compost being allowed 
to become too dry have been pointed out, but the effect of too much water 
is equally disastrous, entailing the loss of roots, and the general decline of 
the plants. 
VENTILATION.—In the matter of ventilation it isa golden rule, when- 
ever possible, to have a little air on somewhere, in all the divisions, 
providing, of course, that the temperatures can be maintained. It sweetens — 
the atmosphere, and does away with those ‘stuffy’? conditions which are 
prevalent in many houses. If the conditions of the houses feel oppressive 
to the cultivator, depend upon it they are also oppressive to the plants. It 
is not so much in general principles that the great mistakes are made, but in 
these small details of our practice. 
Restinc.—Most Orchids, having reached maturity, delight in a season 
of rest, and those at rest at the present season should be allowed to remain 
quiet as long as possible. They should not be allowed to shrivel for want 
of water, nor on the other hand should their roots be decayed by an excess 
ofit. There is as much skill in restinga plant properly, as in making it 
build up healthy growth in its growing season. The finer the growth, the 
more skill necessary to ripen and consolidate it, if the best results are to be 
obtained, 
CypRIPEDIUMS.—The winter-flowering section of these useful plants 
needs no words of recommendation from me, as their floriferousness, the 
ease with which they can be grown, and the lasting quality and beauty of 
their flowers are all well known, and at the present time are most popular. 
Another great consideration, especially to those who live in or near large 
towns, is that they suffer less from fog than almost any other Orchid. 
Cypripediums are always in active growth, hence absolute dryness at the 
roots, at any season, is injurious. During their flowering period, the 
minimum amount of moisture at the roots is required, but whenever the 
compost becomes dry, the plants should have water afforded them, care 
being taken that they become fairly dry between each application. A 
humid atmosphere should be maintained at all times, but care should be 
taken that it does not reach saturation point with a low tomperature. 
During their flowering period a night temperature of 60°, with a slight rise 
during the day will suffice. 
CaTTLeyas, Leliocattleyas, and their allies are more appreciated at this 
season than at any other, and the number of fine autumn-blooming hybrids 
is steadily increasing, so that no difficulty is likely to be found in maintain- 
ing a display of their beautiful flowers. The remarks made regarding their 
culture during the winter months should be closely followed, as in my 
opinion these plants are generally given two much water during the winter, 
