The Culture of Greenhouse Orchids 



If it be possible, a stand-pipe from the main 

 should be set in the house, and a hose attached — 

 not for watering plants, of course, but for " damping 

 down." It will spare the gardener much trouble, 

 not to speak of time ; and the wise always seek to 

 relieve him of dull mechanical labour. For, in the 

 first place, he is tempted to scamp such work ; in 

 the second, he can be better employed. 



Ventilators at the bottom, beneath the staging, 

 are most desirable, and easily contrived. One can- 

 not have too many of them for use in hot weather, 

 or indeed in cold, if the heating power be sufficient, 

 and if their position be such that the air will lose 

 its chill before reaching the plants. Top ventila- 

 tion also is necessary, but only just enough to keep 

 the air in motion. In my own cool house, a lean- 

 to, the uppermost pane does not reach the wall. 

 An inch space remains open all along, throughout 

 the summer months ; iu November I block it up 

 easily enough, and reopen it in March or April. 

 N.B. — This space must not be forgotten when 

 using XL or any fumigant. 



Syringing is not to be recommended for the sake 

 of the plants, unless after a very hot day. And 

 then it should be used softly. Tender young 

 growths are apt to decay when water stands at 

 their heart. Also an inexperienced and careless 



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