Nov-Dec, 1917] THE ORCHID REVIEW. 257 
September, 1908, under the name of C. Harrisoniana alba Stanley’s var., 
but afterwards proved to be the white form of C. Loddigesii (see O.R., xxi. 
p. 331). The Dell variety of C. Astron is the best of the batch that has yet 
flowered, and when exhibited it carried a spike of six blooms, as shown in 
the annexed figure, for which we are indebted to the courtesy of the Editor 
of The Garden. C. Astron most resembles C. Loddigesii alba in general 
character, as might be expected, for C. intermedia alba is a very near ally, 
though the influence of C. Mossiz Wageneri may be seen in the shape of 
the petals. It is a beautiful addition to the group. It may be added that 
on November 20th another plant of this hybrid, bearing a ten-flowered 
spike, received a Cultural Commendation. 
By J. T. BARKER, The West Hill Gardens, | 
Hessle, E. Yorks. 
CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS FOR DECEMBER. i 
We have been compelled by the abnormal conditions of the time to combine the 
November and December Calendars; the treatment required during these two months, 
however, is substantially identical.—ED.]. 
. present period is generally considered to be the most difficult in 
the whole year for plants grown under artificial conditions. The 
short, and often dull days are not conducive to the welfare of the plants, 
and should changes in the outside temperatures follow each other in quick 
succession the results may well. be disastrous to tender Orchids. 
Fluctuations of temperature in the houses should be avoided as much 
as possible, and extremes of either heat or cold are injurious. 
The winter treatment of the plants must now receive strict attention as 
tegards heat, light, and moisture, the first-named largely depending. upon 
the proper use of the heating apparatus, combined with the admission of 
fresh air on all favourable occasions. Absence of fresh air makes the 
houses feel stuffy and unhealthy, so that a judicious use of the ventilators is 
mportant. They should be opened on the lee side as much as possible, so 
a8 to avoid cold draughts. Light can only be secured at this time of year 
by keeping the glass as clean as possible. 
Moisture must now be used with caution, both in the atmosphere and 
'0 the compost. Damping down depends largely upon the amount of heat 
required in the pipes to maintain the temperatures, and is hardly required 
during a spell of mild weather. The compost also remains moist for a long 
m4 except in the case of plants that are growing actively. oe 
Moisture must be given in all departments to check the rapid sea nearer of 
sect pests, such as thrip and red spider, which may quickly disfigure or 
destroy the foliage. 
CATTLEYas, Lzliocattleyas, and their allies are more appreciated at 
