SEEDLING REPOTTING. At Orchidhaven, we generally use peat of the 
yellow or brown type as being the best under most conditions. In most 
instances—especially in the case of seedlings—it is not necessary to remove 
any peat. You can merely “drop the plant on,” placing the plant to the rear 
of a slightly larger pot and jamming peat in the extra space. In the case of 
small seedlings, the most effective method is not to remove any of the old 
peat in the various repottings until the plant is large enough to bloom. 
This gives the plant an opportunity to develop without any hindrance. 
Wire stakes are advised as supports for leaves and bulbs. Four-strand 
green cotton twine is recommended for tying to the stake. Be careful not 
to tie the leaves too tightly toward the stake. 
SHADING. The various methods by which you can obtain satisfactory 
shading include slats, aluminum cloth, and a number of mixtures applied 
on the exterior of the glass. This last method is employed for shading at 
Orchidhaven. We select naphtha and white lead (soft paste), mixing these 
in the following manner: 8 pounds of white lead to 8 gallons of naphtha 
with a 314 inch flower pot of linseed oil. Later in the season, when greater 
opaqueness is needed on the exterior to cut down radiation of light, the 
formula is changed to 1214 pounds of white lead to 8 gallons of naphtha 
with a 314 inch pot of linseed oil. At the beginning of the summer, when 
even more shade is required, the amount of white lead in this formula is 
increased to 25 pounds. From that time on, we do not add any oil and 
gradually cut down on the weight of the white lead. This formula will bear 
the application of judgment since the amount of shade needed varies with 
location and climate. 
It is far better to apply the mixture to the exterior of the house in fre- 
quent, thin coats than to make heavy applications. In the final analysis, 
heavy applications may defeat the purpose of proper shading and are 
difficult to remove. 
The successful growth of Cattleyas depends to a large degree on the 
light which these plants receive. Light should be admitted to the point of 
turning the leaves a light yellow-green color. If one or two leaves are 
burned about the time shading is first applied or when shading is taken off 
or when heavier application is needed, you will know that you are giving 
the plants the maximum amount of light. 
These suggestions are offered on the basis of the successful methods 
developed over a period of years at Orchidhaven. The growth of Cattleyas 
requires only simple, basic rules. The magnificent blooms which these plants 
produce are a rewarding experience for every one who enjoys the thrill of 
seeing fine and beautiful flowers grow under watchful care. It is a creative 
work which repays the amateur in many happy hours. 
We at Orchidhaven are always glad to share with you our knowledge and 
experience in growing Cattleyas. Do not hesitate to write to us about any 
problem of growing. Moreover, Orchidhaven’s doors are always open to 
you. We cordially invite you to visit us at any time. 
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