58 



THE FLOWER GROWER'S GUIDE. 



becomes necessary. The mound of peat and moss standing above the rim of the pot 

 makes it difficult to moisten the bulk of material thoroughly by watering in the ordinary 

 way through the spout of a watering-can. A better way is to use a syringe with a fine 

 rose fitted, holding it above the plant and forcing the water, so to speak, into the com- 

 post. In doing this, avoid wetting the foliage and pseudo-bulbs, especially during the 

 winter, as it is apt to cause spot and decay. 



The condition of the roots of an orchid is in many instances a guide as to the amount 

 of water needed. "When the plants are growing freely, it is a sign that moisture is 

 being actively searched for, and although it is not always wise to wait for this sign, it is 

 well to be observant of it. The majority of species love distinct resting and growing 

 seasons, further particulars of which will be found in the classified list on another page. 

 While at rest, most orchids may be kept rather dry with advantage, but not so dry as 

 to cause shrivelling of the pseudo -bulbs, or foliage, as the case may be. An exception 

 to this rule may be noted under " Odontoglossum citrosmum." 



The majority of kinds rest during the winter, become more active as the spring 

 comes round, and grow freely all through the summer. Consequently, water will be 

 most needed during the summer months, lessening the supply by degrees to the lowest 

 quantity in the winter, increasing the amount in spring. The dendrobiums, cattleyas, 

 odontoglossums, oncidiums, and most other pseudo-bulbous kinds, also many of the 

 distichous-leaved orchids of the vanda section, require this treatment, though instances 

 may be given in each of these genera to the contrary. A well-known case in point will be 

 found in Cattleya citrina. This orchid, as often as not, is in full growth during the winter 

 months, and therefore requires assistance then in the way of moisture. It is good practice 

 for beginners to study the indications, and by them the requirements, of the plants they 

 happen to have in hand. An object-lesson such as these afford is worth pages of written 

 information. 



As plants that require abundance of water all the year round, we may instance the 

 popular genus cypripedium. These are strictly evergreen, a large number flowering in 

 winter, and consequently the roots must be kept quite as moist as in the summer. They 

 do not need watering so often in the dull season, as evaporation is less rapid than in 

 summer ; but the roots must not be allowed to get dry. 



Never water orchids in driblets. If a plant needs water, it must have a thorough 

 soaking — nothing less will do ; but if doubtful whether the plant is really dry, let 

 it go another day. No harm will be done by one day's drying, but much of injury 



