74 
ON THE CULTIVATION OF ONCIDIUM. 
BY MR. P. N. DON. 
This is a most extensive genus, eminently worthy the atten¬ 
tion of the cultivator, and including many singular and beautiful 
species. 
The mode which I should recommend for its successful cultiva¬ 
tion is that the greater portion of the species be grown in large pots, 
filled up to within about two inches of the top with pieces of bark 
and potsherds ; and over the potsherds should be laid about one 
inch thick of the roots of the common eagle-fern, and then pieces 
of bark and very turfy peat, till the pot is filled up about two 
inches above the rim. Then place the plant in the centre, and 
finish it neatly off with the fibrous turf. The best time to pot 
this genus is when the plants commence making roots ; for if 
they are potted before that time, or after they have made their 
roots, they are apt to shrivel, and will sometimes damp off, unless 
great care is taken in giving them water ; but, when potted as I 
have recommended, there is not the slightest fear of their either 
damping or shrivelling. When the plants are potted and finished 
off, they then should be placed in the coolest end of the house 
where they are to grow, and no water should be given to them 
for some time after; and they then should be given but a small 
portion at first, and increased as the plants get stronger and able 
to bear more. The moisture of the house will be quite enough 
for them till such time as they have made pretty good progress. 
This tribe of plants is not fond of being often disturbed ; for it 
they are, they will not flower so fine nor so often as if they were 
left undisturbed. Great care should be taken not to allow any 
water to get into the hearts of the young shoots, or that will oe 
sure to destroy them. Great care also should be taken that they 
are not placed under any drip, for that is certain death to them. 
When the plants have finished their growth they should be re¬ 
moved out of the growing house into the cool and dry house, and 
remain there till they show either signs of growing or flowering. 
They, of course, should then be removed into the growing house 
