AXn THEIR MANAGERIENT. 



Introductory. 



position in the same house has produced remarkable 

 results. This is pointed out in order that cultivators ma}- 

 endeavour to ascertain for themselves suitable conditions 

 of culture where those here advised do not happen to 

 meet individual cases. 



Houses. 



It has been previousl)- stated that the ordinar}' greenhouse 

 and plant sto\-e will generall)' suffice for the requirements 

 of the various species of cool and tropical Orchids ; but 

 where it is intended to build a house with a view to 

 cultivating particular species or families of Orchids a few 

 hints may not be out of place. A few )'ears ago it was 

 a common practice with Orchid specialists to have a wide 

 space between the laps of the glass, with the idea of 

 inducing a free circulation of air. There can be no 

 question that it did allow a free circulation of air, 

 especially on cold, frosty, or windy nights. To retain 

 anything like the normal temperature required, excessi\e 

 heat in the hot-water pipes became a necessity, thus 

 acting detrimentally on the plants subjected to such treat- 

 ment. This is cited to illustrate that while it is desirable 

 to have at command every facility for affording fresh 

 air, the appliances should always be absolutely and com- 

 pletely under control. The lower ventilators should be 

 ample, and be placed in such a position that the fresh 

 air admitted should pass over the hot-water pipes before 

 coming in contact with the plants. The roof ventilators 

 should be sufficiently large, and so constructed that they 

 are easily lifted when necessary. 



It is always advisable to have plenty of piping, more 

 particularly in the warmest divisions. Side-lights should 

 be dispensed with where possible, and especially in cold, 

 exposed positions. Side-lights are really of little ad- 

 vantage, except to cause an excessive drying ^ of the 

 potting compost during bright, warm weather, while they 

 are of but slight protection against cold in winter. Ordinary 

 brick walls provide a more even temperature, and better 

 assist in retaining moisture about the plants and house. 



The stages should be of concrete or slate covered with 

 some moisture-retaining substance, such as coke breeze. 



B 2 



