FEBRUARY, 1913.] THE ORCHID REVIEW. 53 
CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS FOR FEBRUARY. 
By J. T. BARKER, The West Hill Gardens, Hessle, E. Yorks. 
WitH the present month the year’s work practically begins, and as we may 
yet experience some severe weather, everything should be kept as quiet as 
possible. Nothing will be gained by unduly. pushing anything into growth, 
for such growth is puny and unsatisfactory. For all matters relating to 
temperatures, watering, atmospheric conditions, and cultural hints 
generally, last month’s remarks are still applicable. On bright days, 
however, a slight increase in temperature by sun heat will be beneficial. 
During the changeable weather sometimes experienced at this season 
considerable attention must be given to the ventilation of the houses, as it 
is essential that they should be constantly supplied with fresh air without 
excessive fluctuations being permitted. During spells of clear frosty 
weather the sun will have much power, and scorching may easily result if 
the ventilation of the houses does not receive proper attention. The 
plants will also take up more water, but this must be given with 
discrimination, as it is much easier to make the compost too wet than it 
is to get it dry again. 
PoTTInG.—This important operation must now be taken into 
consideration, and everything which can safely be taken in hand should 
have attention, so that at a later season there may be no undue rush, or the 
work may not be done as thoroughly as it should be. Thoroughness in 
everything is the talisman of success. 
Compost.—A supply of the various potting materials used should be 
kept in stock, so that it may be in the desired condition-when required, 
neither too wet nor too dry. The different fibres may be pulled or chopped 
ready for use, so that when the busy season is upon us we may dispose of 
the time at our disposal to the best advantage. If the different plants are 
not repotted at their proper seasons they get an unnecessary check, which 
may prove most harmful. Speaking of composts, I would advise that 
drastic changes as regards this matter should be made with great caution, 
as not only has the plant to take hold of the compost, but the watering is 
quite different in many cases. A continual change of rooting material is a 
source of trouble and much anxiety. 
CaTTLEyas.—C. Trianz and C. Percivaliana, with any hybrids that 
have flowered during the winter months, may be repotted if they are 
pushing, or are about to push new roots. A suitable compost for the whole 
family is made up as follows: Two parts osmunda and peat fibre, one part 
At. fibre and sphagnum moss, all well mixed together. All the fine 
particles must be carefully removed from the compost. If plants of 
Cattleya Warneri, C. gigas, Lelia Boothiana, and L. crispa are in need of 
