8 THE ORCHID: REVIEW, [JANUARY, 1912. 
electrical discharges in an Orchid house might have other effects on the 
plants, such as those noted in Sir Oliver Lodge’s experiinents, but my 
theory was derived purely from the chemical: and manurial side of the 
question. 
When any species of Cypripede is found growing commonly with another 
plant (as C. philippinense and dwarf Polypodium observed by Mr. Lyon), 
I think it would be well worth while trying to grow both in the same pot. 
In several cases where weeds have been growing in the same pots with 
Orchids I have noticed that the Orchids seemed to benefit by the presence 
of the weeds, and to lose by their removal. I am inclined to think that 
the presence of a natural neighbour in the same pot with an Orchid might 
tend to produce more stable conditions in the compost and its contained 
air, and possibly other good results. MILES JOHNSTON. 
ORCHIDS: A DELIGHTFUL HOBBY. 
Ir has occurred to me that your readers might be interested to know some- 
thing of the results of a very crude amateur, after the careful perusal of your 
monthly paper (from which so much valuable information has been 
obtained). It was some two years ago that I casually came across a copy 
of the Orchid Review, and which I think was the spark that kindled the fire 
of enthusiasm to try my hand at growing a few Orchids. Having a small 
greenhouse, measuring about 18ft. by 7ft., I forthwith gave it a general 
clean up and began straight away with a few Cypripediums. Having got 
these it began to dawn upon me that I had undertaken a task which required 
a lot of time. However, I persevered, and soon added more plants, and 
to-day my little house contains some 135 Orchids, including Cypripediums, 
Odontoglossums, Cattleyas, Lzlias, Vandas, Oncidiums, Cymbidiums, 
Dendrobiums, Calanthes, Masdevellias, Coelogynes, &c., arranged for light 
and warmth according to their requirements, and at the moment I have 
47 plants in bloom or bud, many of which are the second time of flowering 
with me, and gardeners tell me the collection is exceedingly healthy. No 
doubt it isa mixed one, but all seem to do well. Now as regards time, 
&c., in attending to the plants, you will gather what it is when I tell you 
I am away at my business 12 to 14 hours every day of the week, and keep 
no gardener, because I cannot afford or have enough work for one. More- 
over, my little greenhouse is built between two dwelling-houses, and 
consequently does not get a lot of sun, but to me it is as balm after a busy 
day to look over my plants, and with little expense or time the pleasure 
of showing our friends the result of our little labour is great, even if there 
is not room for more than one at a time in the house. 
The Nook, EDWARD CLEMENT. 
Ashford Road, Maidstone. 
