38 THE ORCHID REVIEW. [FEBRUARY, 1912. 
to what reverse crosses have been made, and we should like to see a few 
careful experiments carried out. . 
A plausible explanation of the “ false’ hybrids of Zygopetalum would be 
that it was a case of self-fertilisation, but this idea may be dismissed, for 
the experiments have been made, and repeated, by expert hybridists, always 
with the same result—and without pollination no capsules are produced. 
But microscopic examination would show whether fertilisation takes place 
or not, and such an experiment as that made by Mr. Veitch in the case 
of Cattleya Mossiz would settle the matter. If about fifty flowers of 
Zygopetalum were taken, half self-fertilised, and half crossed with 
Odontoglossum crispum—after their own pollinia had been carefully 
removed—and their subsequent development traced, by their periodic 
removal and microscopic examination, it would be possible to ascertain 
what really takes place. A smaller number of flowers would serve if all 
developed properly, for a weekly examination from the seventh or eighth 
week would suffice until the critical period arrived, some few weeks later. 
It would be a very interesting experiment and should settle the matter 
definitely. 
(To be concluded). 
THE. AMATEUR’S: COLLECTION. 
By C. ALwyn Harrison, F.R.H.S. 
Coot House. 
THE plants in this structure will need almost identical treatment to that 
set forth last month. More water and ventilation may be given, however, 
if mild weather prevails. If cold winds are experienced be careful not to 
open the roof ventilators on the exposed side of the house. Should the 
collection be situated in the vicinity of a large town, where fogs frequently 
occur, the roof glass must be well cleansed after each visitation, and during 
the fog itself the ventilators should be kept closed. The chief duties of the 
cultivator will be to see that all growing plants receive a fair amount of 
water, that those resting be kept drier, and at the coolest end of the house, 
and that the leaves be kept clean by repeated sponging. Tepid rain water 
should be used for this purpose. This is also a suitable season for washing 
the pots and for cleansing the inside glass. 
Some of the later-flowering Cypripediums should be ready for potting, 
and the method to be followed and the best compost were explained in my 
last month’s article. If some plants do not need any repotting, it will then 
be best to leave them until another season. I cannot say that I am an 
advocate of top-dressing, for replacing the old surface soil by fresh renders 
it difficult to see the condition of that below, and whilst the surface compost 
may appear quite moist, that underneath may be dust dry, or vice-versa. 
