ISPAHAN 
(Rosanna, F.C.C., R.H.S. x Lowianum) 
In potting with this mix, we used only shallow or fern pots. The open- 
ing in the bottom was enlarged to about 1” in diameter and only one piece 
of crock was used; thereby making a saving in the time consumed in crock- 
ing; a practice usually resorted to in order to gain sufficient aeration. It was 
found that for best results it was better to overpot and to leave the top plant- 
ing surface about 1” below the top of the pot. This is occasioned because 
the roots tend to lift the plant up to where the surface is even with the top 
of the pot rim, making water and feeding more difficult. 
A program of repotting into this kind of mix was started with the be- 
ginning of the New Year in 1954, and the results in eleven months have 
been very gratifying. The soil analysist made periodical checks and tests, 
both upon the soil after being in use, and the foliage grown, to determine 
if the plant was getting the right amounts of water and fertilizer. It is to 
Mr. Matkin’s credit that the mix and feeding program was correct from the 
inception of the program; for the nutrient has not been changed, nor has 
the mix being changed. The tests show the mix still has a pH 6.1, the fertil- 
izer ample, and the growth has been far better than expected. Also, the 
flower spikes have been far in excess of any expectation. At present many 
major Cymbidium growers in the southland use the services of “Soil and 
Plant Laboratory” (Mr. Matkin’s firm). The results are further proof of 
the wisdom of aan a scientifically directed feeding program. 
=O 
