THE ORCHID REVIEW. 55 
required. To the bona-fide amateur, however, and to the new beginner in 
the craft, information so conveyed is quite as likely to confuse as to assist, 
and particularly so if they have—as is very often the case—only one house 
in which to grow their Orchids, and as the Calendar is intended to assist the 
learner and beginner, I propose henceforth to write a short article each 
month dealing with such collections, in the hope that it may be acceptable ~ 
and useful. 
THE AMATEUR’s ORCHID HOUSE.—All amateurs, of course, want to grow 
that very popular and beautiful species, Odontoglossum crispum, together 
with its allies, aud we may therefore assume that the structure in question is 
either divided by a partition, or that the owner has a frame or pit which 
may be used for such kinds during summer, so that the temperature may 
then be kept cooler for them than for the great majority of other kinds 
Which he can successfully grow. Under such conditions it is really sur- 
prising what an enormous number of distinct species can be grown together 
in one house with but little trouble and expense. It embraces the whole of 
those commonly known as intermediate, as well as those recommended for 
the Cool house. They are too numerous to mention separately, but I may 
briefly say that most of the beautiful Cattleyas are included, as well as the 
Cypripediums, Oncidiums, Odontoglossums, Lzlias, Coelogynes, Epiden- 
drums, Zygopetalums, Lycastes, Brassias, Maxillarias, Miltonias, and 
Trichopilias ; many of the Aérides and Vandas; some of the Saccolabiums 
and Angrecums ; many Dendrobiums, _ besides Barkerias, Thunias, 
Pleiones, and some few others. 
GENERAL TREATMENT.—With such a lot of different kinds growing 
together in one house, the positions must, of course, be selected to some 
extent, the roof being utilized for certain kinds, and the stage for others, 
While the exposed and airy places will also find suitable occupants. The 
Same temperature does fairly well for all during the winter, and it should 
now range fram 50° to 60°, either falling 5° below or rising 5° above for 
short periods. With this temperature everything should be kept on the dry 
side, and no harm whatever will result; in fact the majority of the plants 
seem to revel in such conditions. Provided that no more fire heat is used 
than is necessary to maintain these temperatures, very little or no air need 
be put on, as sufficient will come through the chinks and crevices to keep 
the atmosphere pure and sweet. _ ; 
WaTERING.—To keep the plants healthy and plump, a watering at the 
root may take place about once or twice a week, but the compost need not 
be absolutely saturated, or a léng time will elapse before it again dries. I 
Prefer what is termed surface watering for the winter; enough then is taken 
in to fully sustain vigour, wjthout rotting the roots. The system of 
thoroughly soaking is not good practice for the winter. On days when no 
