170 THE ORCHID REVIEW. [JUNE, 1903- 
compost in which this result has been obtained consists of two-thirds rough 
leaves to one-third turfy peat, with the usual covering of sphagnum moss.” 
At page 2o1 of our last volume we gave a figure of an Odontoglossum 
crispum from the same collection “to show how Odontoglossums can be 
grown in leaf-soil,” with full particulars of the treatment, and the present 
example is still more remarkable. There must be something in the 
compost which these plants like, to induce such vigour, and the general 
treatment must be good. Inany case Mr. Alexander must be congratulated 
on his success. 
CALENDAR OF OPERATIONS FOR JUNE. 
By JOHN Mackay, The Gardens, Highbury, Birmingham. 
THE welcome change, from dull to brilliant summer weather, has been | 
all that is desired for the welfare of our plants, which are beginning to | 
look very much better, especially those that occupy the warmest divisions. | 
They seem to delight in their natural sun-heat, growing and blooming more | 
vigorously than in our ordinary climate. ‘With the cool-growing species it 
will be difficult to keep them sufficiently cool, especially when grown 
in houses exposed all day to the full glare of the sun, and only by ample 
ventilation, heavy shading, and a plentiful supply of moisture can this. 
be done. A lean-to house facing North, or North-east, is no doubt the best 
position for these charming species during a hot summer. The grower will 
find plenty to interest him in looking over his collection, as nearly every day 
some plant has made a fresh start, either by sending out new roots, young 
growths, or producing its charming flower spike. A word of caution may 
not be out of place here, against the practice of allowing the spikes to 
remain on too long, as is frequently the case, greatly to the detriment of 
the plants, causing them to shrivel, and weakening them to such an extent 
that they are scarcely able to form new growth, and often gradually 
dwindle away. It will greatly conduce to the health of the plant if the 
flower spikes are cut off after a reasonable time. Small and weakly plants. 
should not be allowed to bloom at all, consequently it is- advisable to 
remove their flower spikes whenever they appear. By giving the plants a 
fair amount of rest, and afterwards gradually starting them into growth, 
_ Many valuable plants may be saved and brought round into their normal 
condition of health. 
By this time Cattleya Warscewiczii (gigas), C. Dowiana, and its beautiful 
variety aurea, are fast making their growth, many showing their sheaths, and 
when these are apparent water may be applied more freely. The deciduous 
Calanthes are now becoming strongly rooted, and may likewise be watered 
