THE ORCHID REVIEW. 25 
Let it be borne in mind that spot, rot, and other forms of decay are 
likely to supervene if the conditions are too wet, and at the same time 
cold, therefore avoid such conditions if possible. I use the latter phrase 
advisedly, for well do I know that in spite of the utmost endeavours of the 
most painstaking persons, it is not always possible to steer quite clear of 
those unsuitable conditions which favour the development of disease in 
some form or another. There are many details in management which may 
appear to be trifling matters, but which, notwithstanding, claim the 
attention of the most careful culvators, and often, too, at hours when most 
of the world is asleep. It is a great thing to know the exact cause of spot, 
and the conditions which induce it, but it is no easy matter to escape it 
altogether. The best safeguards are to have houses built and heated on 
the most approved principles, coupled with strict and never-failing attention. 
Drip from the roof, sudden falls of temperature, and water on the leaves in 
cold weather must be studiously avoided. 
The question regarding ventilation at this season is rather a delicate 
one, which must not be spoken of at random. Everything will depend 
upon the structure of the house. It can safely be said that if there are 
spaces through which the air can pass, through the over-lapping glass not 
fitting closely, or by any other means, the ventilators will scarcely be in 
request this month ; in fact there is a likelihood at times of having too 
much air without them. If, on the other hand, the houses are closely built, 
it is frequently advantageous to admit air through the bottom ventilators, 
in a larger or smaller volume according to the mildness of the weather. 
The top ventilators should also be used in the Cool house on the leeward 
side when the outside temperature is not below 45°, maintaining warmth in 
the pipes to temper the fresh air and to produce a better circulation. Fresh 
air is the life and soul of these plants, but be careful just now, especially 
when leaving for the night, for the weather is apt to change suddenly before 
morning—and it is better not to have too much even of a good thing. 
At this season we may perhaps just review the successes and failures ot 
the year just passed. Each year has its lessons, and something will have 
been learnt and added to our experience. I can safely say that I have had 
another proof of the truth of the old saying that we should leave well alone. 
It came about by removing our Phalznopses from their accustomed place, 
but the result was not satisfactory, and they are now re-instated in their 
little hot, span-roofed house. The same thing is now unavoidably 
happening to the Barkerias, which, owing to building operations, were 
removed from their sunny position in a lean-to, and their appearance is not 
so smart as formerly. Barkerias will only grow well when suspended fully 
exposed to the sun and syringed copiously when growing, but at this resting 
season they should be kept very dry. We never could get Miltonia spectab- 
