New orchid growers can profit from the experience of others by 
joining the American Orchid Society. This includes a subscription to 
the Bulletin and a copy of the Yearbook containing names and addresses 
of all members. (See page 40.) 
More detailed information may be found in any one of a number 
of fine publications now available and every orchid grower should sub- 
scribe to as many as possible. They cover all phases of orchid growing 
around the world. It is advisable to obtain as many back issues of 
orchid publications as possible as they are a storehouse of knowledge 
that will save you many costly mistakes. We list a few of the publica- 
tions on pages 39-40. 
About the cost of the plants: They may now be purchased at very 
reasonable prices. We recommend and list standard varieties for the 
beginner for trial. (See “Collections” on p. 25.) <A single flowering 
size Cattleya plant may be had for $7.95 pp. east of the Mississippi 
(add 25c west of the Mississippi). A single flowering-size Phalaenop- 
sis for $7.95 pp. east of the Mississippi (add 25c west of the Mississippi). 
Phalaenopsis can be shipped with flower spike only from October 
through January. 
The above information is intended for general culture of orchids in 
the home and especially for the Cattleya and allied genera, such as 
Le. (Laeliocattleya), Bc. (Brassocattleya) and Ble. (Brassolaeliocattle- 
ya). <Any special cultural information is given under the individual 
orchid. 
DECORATIVE AIR PLANTS 
(Bromeliads) 
The BROMELIACEAE are one of the most diversified families of 
plants indigenous to the Americas. The luscious pineapple belongs to 
this group. Many genera are terrestrial, growing in soil as does the 
pineapple, while others are epiphytic like many orchids and grow on 
trees. The air plants, shaped like urns, hold a reservoir of water at the 
base of the leaves, which allows them to be used as flower vases. 
Upon reaching maturity a flower spike will rise from the center of 
the plant and the inflorescence often lasts several months. Some types 
flower without a stem, the flowers forming a rosette in the center of 
the plant similar to an old-fashioned bouquet. After flowering, the 
main plant will die in about 2 years but new suckers are produced at 
the base of the plant. These can be potted up when sufficiently de- 
veloped (3”-6” high). 
All will grow in osmunda fibre. Some types will grow satisfactorily 
in a mixture of leaf mold, sharp sand and German peat. Cup-shaped 
plants must be filled with water all the time. The compost should also 
be watered when dry. They can be fed a nutrient solution, such as 
Wilson’s Orchid Fertilizer, once a month. Occasionally shower plants 
in kitchen sink. 
4? Greenhouses at Mandarin on the St. Johns River 
