366 THE ORCHID REVIEW. [DECEMBER, 1913- 
varieties of these useful Orchids, which were potted as advised a few 
months ago, will now be in active growth, and may have water applied to: 
them whenever they become dry. Between each application the compost 
should be allowed to become fairly dry. They delight in a moderately damp 
position, in a warm Cattleya house, during the winter months, and should: 
be elevated well up to the light. The autumn-flowering varieties of M. 
vexillaria, Leopoldii and superba, which are at present in flower, or have 
just passed out of bloom, may be repotted if the young growths are of 
sufficient strength and about to push new roots. The type of M. vexillaria 
known as M. v. robusta, which flowers later than the summer-flowering 
varieties, may be treated in precisely the same manner as the autumn- 
flowering varieties. The hybrids, M. Bleuana and M. Hyeana, which are 
irregular in their flowering season, may have new compost given them. 
whenever the young growths are in the desired condition. By close 
observation of these trifling matters plants may be potted with a minimum. 
amount of risk almost at any season. It is surprising that so many do not 
succeed with these’plants. Should cold weather prevail, necessitating more 
fire heat to maintain the temperatures, constant watch must be kept for 
yellow thrip and other insect pests, which, if not eradicated, do irreparable © 
harm. A good pair of eyes is a valuable asset to the cultivator. 
PHAL#NopSIS.—These Orchids are among the most difficult to manage 
during the winter months. The succulent and sensitive nature of their 
leaves, and the absence of pseudobulbs, make them specially susceptible to 
injury, which renders extreme care and watchfulness necessary on the part 
of the grower. The leaves this season are well consolidated, and will be 
better able to withstand hardships than they otherwise would. The well- 
ripened plants should pass the winter quite safely in a temperature of about 
60°, provided the atmosphere is maintained in a fairly dry condition. A 
superabundance of moisture, either at the roots or in the atmosphere, is 
most harmful to these succulent plants during the winter months. When 
the tips of the roots are sealed over only sufficient to keep the leaves 
plump and prevent shrivelling is necessary. Those plants that have not 
finished their growth should be kept growing gently through the winter. 
ZYGOPETALUMS.—As these plants are now growing freely, they wilh 
require water whenever they become dry at the roots. The popular Z. 
Mackayi produces its flower spikes at this season, and owing to their colour 
are most acceptable. When in full growth these plants require an abundant 
supply of water, and, as their thick fleshy roots resent a sour compost, it 
may be advisable when flowering is over to repot any that may be in need of 
new rooting material. A suitable compost is the kind advised for green- 
leaved Cypripediums. Z. Mackayi, Z. crinitum, Z. Clayi, and several 
others grow well in a warm shady corner of the warm Intermediate house, 
