Culture 
‘The’ two essential conditions in orchid culture are location 
and soil. Any situation affording filtered sunlight is > 
adequate, such as that provided by lath or spreading 
trees whose branches are not too close to the ground. 
As to the soil: a mixture of from 60% to 75% coarse 
leafmold and the remainder a good sandy loam or 
decomposed granite is recommended. Perfect drainage 
is requisite if one is to grow Cymbidiums successfully. 
Keep them reasonably moist during the growing season 
(April-September), and thereafter reduce the amount of 
water in order to encourage the maximum bloom. Do 
not over-fertilize them; a weak liquid solution made from 
dairy manure, which has been soaked in water for two 
or three weeks, may be applied three times a year (May 
15th, July Ist, and August 15th). Plant so that the pseudo 
bulbs are at surface level and keep a good mulch of 
plain leafmold on the bed when planted out. 
Cymbidiums are not particularly sensitive to cold, with- 
standing a temperature of twenty-five degrees in perfect 
safety and even as low as twenty-four degrees in the 
coastal regions. Also, they are comparatively free 
from. pests. 
With a balanced selection of early, medium and late 
blooming varieties, their period of bloom may be ex- 
tended from October through April. The blooms on the 
plant retain their perfection of vitality and color from 
eight to ten weeks; the cut blossoms will last about 10 
days and are, therefore, in great demand for corsages 
and flower arrangements. 
If the above simple instructions are followed, you will 
be amply rewarded with these graceful orchids which 
spell magic in any garden, patio or indoors. 
COOLIDGE -: 
RARE PLANT GARDENS 
889 No. Foothill Blvd. SYcamore 4-112] 
P. O. Box C, East Pasadena 8, California 

