charged and those with weak constitutions or immature growths will be liable to 
damp off or rot. A close, stagnant atmosphere is always to be avoided. In the 
summer the air is very drying and the plants benefit greatly from frequent light 
overhead spraying two or three times a day. 
We must again call to the attention of amateurs their most common 
error — overwatering the epiphytes, and especially the Cattleyas. These want 
spraying overhead each bright day, even two or three times in warm dry weather, 
but water on the compost should be applied only as indicated under the section 
devoted to Cattleyas. Give them a good drink about twice a week. Do not rest 
the plants in saucers, and if they are on a bench be sure there is a crack beneath 
them so that the surplus water will drain off. 
SHADING 
From early February to late October shading must be provided. Outside 
roller blinds are far superior to any other method, for they may be left up on cloudy 
or dark days, or raised in the afternoon when the sun is low, and thus the plants 
benefit greatly from the increased light. They are also a protection against hail. 

Ross W. Baker 
VIEW OF OUR LABORATORY 
It is here that the Orchid seed is sown in flasks on sterile media 
57 }- 
