28 



ORCHIDS 



Methods of Sowing Seed. 



necessary to take precautionar>' measures to prevent this, 

 and the best means of overcoming the difficulty is to use 

 a small spray-diffuser, similar to those found in florists' 



Fig. 8. Orchid Seedlings at Two Years. 



shops ; the ^vater is forced out in a fine mist-like spray. 

 This we find answers the purpose admirably. The periods 

 between spraj-ings will \'ary according to the outside 

 conditions of the atmosphere. In bright, warm weather 

 the seedlings will require damping twice a day ; but in 

 dull, cool weather, probably once or twice a week will be 

 sufficient. This must be left to the discretion of the 

 operator. Care must also be observed to pre\'ent the 

 small seedlings from becomiing dry, especiall}' if these are 

 hung in a light position near the roof-glass. Seedlings, 

 if once allowed to become dr}', shrivel, after which the 

 tiny plants rarely regain their normal condition, and 



