September 18, 1884. ] 
JOURNAL OF HORTICULTURE AND COTTAGE GARDENER. 
259 
and this year has produced three spikes. I mention this to show that 
Orchids can be grown without Orchid houses. What I desire to know is 
whether my plant is Aerides Fieldingii or not, and if not what is it 1 
Will you kindly inform me ?— Lancashire. 
[Though the plant is flowering late it is nevertheless Aerides Field¬ 
ingii, When it gets stronger it may be expected to produce branched 
spikes. The annexed engraving shows the character of this species with 
a normal spike like the one sent, which is 14^ inches in length, and very 
beautiful—a “ brush ” of rosy lilac with a crimson glow arising from the 
system of growing Pears is well known to many; but these notes 
are written as a guide to the inexperienced. 
Cordon Pear trees are to be recommended for various reasons. 
A good selection may be grown on a limited space of wall, con¬ 
sequently there is no fear of too many ripening at once. The 
fruit with careful attention grows to a large size, and twelve 
good Pears are more appreciated than fifty undersized examples ; 
while the fruit which is grown to the full size for the variety is 
of much better flavour than inferior specimens. 
Being trained to one stem, cordon trees are invaluable for 
Fig. 43.—Fox-nRUSii Aerides. 
darker colour at the base of the petals. We should keep the plant at the 
warmest end of the house at least for a month. Allow it all the sun it 
can bear, which will probably be all there is in Lancashire, and only give 
sufficient water to prevent the sphagnum shrivelling.] 
COEDON PEAR TREES. 
Good melting Pears are invaluable for the dessert during 
the winter months, but how seldom ai*e really first-class Pears 
placed on the dinner table! This is to be regretted, as no f j’uit is 
so refreshing in winter as a good melting Pear. The cordon 
filling up vacant spaces between large established trees, so that 
wall space may be utilised which would be otherwise lost. Where 
possible, however, a good length of wall should be reserved toi 
^rowing them together. These wants can be more easily and 
quickly attended to, and the different varieties form an interest¬ 
ing study. Walls which have a south, south-west, and west 
aspect are the best for Pears. 
Most soils will grow good Pears, but a deep strong loam is 
the best. The ground should in all cases be drained if it requires 
it, as a well-drained soil is essential for success. The border 
should not be less than 5 feet in width, and it should be well 
worked over to the depth of 30 inches. If the subsoil is not of a 
