122 THE ORCHID REVIEW. [APRIL, 1913. 
CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS FOR APRIL. 
By J. T. BARKER, The West Hill Gardens, Hessle, E. Yorks. 
THE outside conditions are now more favourable for the plants grown under 
glass, and the greater amount of light we have recently experienced has had 
a most stimulating effect upon all Orchids. It is astonishing the influence 
light has upon the plants at this season of the year, how it apparently 
stiffens up the limp and flaccid growths. Everything now will be on the 
move; new roots are pushing, together with new growths, and things in 
general will move very rapidly, and where large quantities of Orchids are 
grown some amount of forethought and energy will be necessary to keep 
pace with the times, as regards repotting and other details. : 
TEMPERATURES.—The increased temperatures advised last month may 
continue now right through the growing season, an exception, of course, 
being made in the case of the Cool house, which should be kept as cool as 
possible during the summer months. Artificial heat should be discontinued 
here as early as possible, as fire heat is of no benefit to these plants, and 
should only be used to maintain the temperatures at the proper figures. 
WATERING.—The plants will now begin to take up more water at the 
roots, and with the longer and brighter days evaporation will take place 
rapidly, therefore more water should be given to the plants and the supplies 
of atmospheric moisture should be increased. The more humid conditions 
will be conducive to healthy growth, but excess in either case must be 
strictly guarded against. 
VENTILATION must have attention at all times, and I am certain if this 
question had more attention we should not see so many Orchids in such a 
bad condition as we often do. The proper proportions of heat, air, and 
water are the main factors in the cultivation of garden plants, and Orchids 
are no exception to the rule. Stuffiness should not be allowed in any of 
the divisions, but the usual precaution against draughts must be observed. 
SHADING will now require attention, and it will be well to repeat the 
advice concerning the benefits of shading Orchids during early spring. It 
is well to remember that when emerging from the dull weather of winter 
the plants are somewhat soft, and the growths are limp and flaccid, and 
such growths therefore are unable to withstand sudden or long spells of 
bright sunshine. The plants should be gradually inured to the light and 
sun, as by neglecting to shade them at this season much harm may accrue, 
and many plants may be disfigured for several seasons. 
DENDRoBIUMS.—As the species and hybrids pass out of flower, and 
commence to push forth new growths and roots from the base of their 
_pseudobulbs, any necessary repotting should be attended to. The 
disturbance of plants well established in good material should be avoided, 
