Fepruary, 1916.] THE ORCHID REVIEW. 
By J. T. BARKER, The West Hill Gardens, 
Yorks. 
43 
CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS FOR FEBRUARY. : 
Hessle, E. 
HE remarks in last month’s Calendar relating to temperatures, 
watering, atmospheric conditions, and cultural hints generally are 
still applicable. On bright days, however, a slight increase in temperature 
by sun heat, with slightly more moisture in the atmosphere, will be 
beneficial, but generally speaking it is advisable to keep everything 
at rest as far as possible. The proper balance of heat, light, and 
moisture must be maintained at all seasons to keep the plants in a healthy 
and thriving condition. Although so far this winter we have not 
experienced any severe weather, we may do so at any time, and plants: 
that are hastily pushed into growth may suffer or receive a severe check, 
and premature growth is puny and unsatisfactory. 
VENTILATION.—Often during the present month the climatic conditions 
are very changeable, hence the necessity of considerable attention to the 
ventilation of the houses, as it is imperative that they should be constantly 
supplied with fresh air without excessive fluctuations being permitted. 
Possibly the present month is the worst of the whole year to maintain the 
different bouses in that sweet and healthy condition desirable, as changes 
are often so rapid, especially in some districts. 
WATERING.—With the lengthening days the plants will take up more 
water at the roots, but care is still necessary, as we may still have lengthy 
spells of sunless weather and an atmosphere heavily charged with moisture. 
Porrinc.—With the present month the year’s work practically begins, 
and as the different plants arrive at the desired state they should receive 
attention, and, although many growers may be short-handed, every effort 
should be made to keep abreast of the work as the season advances. In 
the potting—in fact in everything--let thoroughness be the rule, as no: 
good results ever accrue from work half done. 
Composts.—Most growers favour some special material as a rooting 
medium for their plants, and, as all attain practically the same results, who 
should discriminate? As long as the different fibres of which our composts. 
are made are clean, porous, and properly placed into position, it matters: 
little, to my mind, whether osmunda, peat, or Ar fibre predominates. 
Whatever the material used, the question of watering must be taken in 
conjunction with it, for the two, so to speak, run in double harness, and the 
very best material ever put together may be ruined by the indiscriminate 
use of the water pot. A continual change of the rooting material is a 
source of trouble and anxiety, and is not to be recommended. It should be 
the cultivator’s aim to thoroughly master the details of culture of each 
