SELEY me TH saat: t Sets arte pity sehen sists 258352 aye? Peet ied: ABET ea ess a puaaea eprint ait Peis Bete Coat Spsepesenese atest) state erage pete atest ae Sp aseeesaant Degas gigas is papee baat neha Bereich es : ao tsty ae aired: ba users siete sraFehe 2 dy afse eee geaesey iV; @) [ee eNO PUBLISHED QUARTERLY COELOGYNE OCCULTATA, Hook, fil. MARCH, 1952 PRICE Page ii AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 ORG IDS of Quality * Co DEANE PARK and GREEN STREETS, GLENBROOK NEW SOUTH WALES Telephone Glenbrook 481 The Shepherd Press announce ANOTHER SMASH-HIT COOKERY BOOK from the editors of “The Garrulous Gourmet” “ce Vo 7 na ” OC), f Dread» UOHEL 1 or a renc Je. by TED MOLONEY and DEKE COLEMAN Profusely illustrated with line drawings by George Molnar. “FRENCH WIFE,” with 110 gaily illustrated pages of recipes, and the art, chemistry, and philosophy of cooking. 19/6 EVERYWHERE THE SHEPHERD PRESS e Yurong Street, SYDNEY, N.S.W. beboid “Seve A Composite ey | to Volumes 17, 18 and 19—1952, 1953, 1954 Compiled by P. A. Gilbert (Honorary Editor) Comprising Index to Articles - - = Le ag SaiTh hOTKES ony Index to [llustrattons © © www tase ustra par Oey | Sateen PUBLISHED QUARTERLY The Official Organ of the THE ORCHID SOCIETY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA THE ORCHID SOCIETY OF NEW SOUTH WALES THE ORCHID CLUB OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA THE QUEENSLAND ORCHID SOCIETY THE TASMANIAN ORCHID SOCIETY THE VICTORIAN ORCHID CLUB e Published by SHEPHERD & NEWMAN PTY. LTD. Yurong Street, Sydney, Australia. Subscription Rates: Australia and New Zealand, 12/6 per annum; Overseas, 12/6 sterling per annum. Post free. Single copy, 3/6 Advertising Rates obtainable from the Proprietors. | | | | | } | | | INDEX TO ARTICLES Vol. No. Page Vol. No. Page An Appreciative Critic abi 4 120 Are We Better Off! .... 1S ed 10 Asymbiotic Raising of Orchid Seedlings, The . my 8 99 Asymbiotic Raising of Orchid Seedlings, The ... 17 A 119 Australian Orchid Review, The ... 17 1 15 : FA WATS jen cro ee dee: 17 1 9 | AWETOS MEU LIC 2 Ing at OLA eee ene ee een) ee nee 19 2 77 | Awards, O.S. of N.S.W., 1951 17 1 14 | Awards, O.S. of N.S.W., 1952 17 3 88 Awards, O.S. of N.S.W., 1953 .... 18 4 157 | Awards, O.S. of N.S.W., 1954 " 19 2 45 Awards (V.O/C2 911952 pee cee tere ae eee 9 Cent aatiaia cathe 17 1 14 | Awards, V.O.C., 1952 . 17 3 82 Awards, V.O.C., 1952 . 74 2 «121 ] Awards, V.O.C., 1953 . 18 4 160 Awards, V.O.C., 1953 . 19 2 76 | Bissetyed Ga ee ‘ 19 4 164 ! Book Review .... ne Shee 1 44 | Book Review 18 2 56 | Book Review... ; 18) 2 69 | IBOOKssRLeVie Wii emai » I -8 124 | Brierly, The late William 19 2 15 | Bromheadia (Lindl) 18 3 101 | Bulbophyllum in Australia, The Genus .. 17 oe 97 | Caladenia, An Abnormal ......... 19 1 15 ] California Cymbidiums Inc. 17 64 | Cattleyas, Some Notes on iy 34 | Charcoal, The Use of 1 61 WW | Climatological Effects on Orchid Culture 19 3 102 | Coelogyne OCCU AGA oecmennpenen Vi ue | Copper Naphthenate, A Fungicide stv Ets Raising i 4) 139 | Cultivation of Compost, The .. 18 83 117 | Cultural Guide, A Monthly .. 19 3 19 | Cultural Guide, A Mone in @ 167 | Cultural Notes cme 7 1 14-25 17 3 82-96 17 4 124-134 18 1 11-33 | 18 2 65-71 18 3 104-122 ] Cultural Notes for S.A... te 1 3 104 ] Cymbidium x Louis Sander var, Kirribilli . Line? ues ] Cymbidium Mosaic 19 2 61 Cymbidium Notes for Novices 19 3 117 ] Cymbidium Potting Mixtures iW 8 84 | Oymbidiums 0. 18 3 120 | Cymbidiums, The Cultivation of.. i 8 87 | Cymbidiums, Troubles with 19 1 18 | Dendrobium, A New Australian... 13 ee 18 | Dendrobium bigibbum .... 18 4 152 | Dendrobium bigibbum and varieties .. 19 2 716 | Dendrobium from New Guinea, A Beautiful 18 2 58 Dendrobium gracilicaule .. 19 «1 wv Dendrobium linguiforme ... 18 «3 112 | Dendrobium phalaenopsis Culture .. 19 2 80 Dendrobiums iu 14 | Diseases and Pests of Orchids yp 24 | Districts Exhibits, O.S. of N.S.W., 1951 wo o1 16 Districts Exhibits, O.S, of N.S.W., 1953 15 eee 158 a Fe [a Eastern Suburbs Orchid Show, 1952 .. Eastwood Orchid Circle Show, 1952. Eastwood Orchid Circle Show, 1953 Eria, A New Species of Erwinia carotovora. ............ First World Orchid Conference, The .... Fitzgerald R. D. Fungus and its Association with Seed Germination . Genetics or Just Plain Chance Gleanings from Overseas Orchid Periodicals ... Gosford District Orchid Society Gosford District Orchid Society, 1953 Ex. .... Gravel Culture of Cattleyas, The .... Gravel Culture of Cattleyas, The ... Healthy Plants from Diseased Materials Heating, Humidification, etc., of Glass-houses . Heating of Green-houses by Ducted Hot Air ... Hot-Box, A Low-voltage ..... How to Start a Collection ... Illawarra Field Notes’ Impressions on the 1954 Cymbidium Season. ... Inland Orchid Growers Judging for Awards ......... Judging of Orchids, The + Judging of Orchids, The ... Judging Standards for Awards, THE crn: Judging Standards, O.S. of N.S.W., and V.O. ©. Leaf Mould for Orchids .. Letters Light Intensity Lime, Some Orchids Require .... Manuring Cymbidiums, Some Notes on .. Markell, The late Judge H. Fi ees Meat or Mound Ant, The Method to Soften Herbarium Material Methods of Growing Orchid Seed . Miltonia Culture in France ....... MOre nA DOULEOLCHIC€ COM DOSES meee terete tetas eee menig IMOLe mt role alle GTL CLUS] 2S esate teeter tear nese ne eet rere reenrene cence Mosaic, Cymbidium. ................ Newcastle Orchid Society . New Orchid Journal, A . News and Notes eres No Orchids! 00. + North Queensland Orchid Society, “The Notes for Beginners ............... New Zealand Orchid Society. ‘Inc, ‘The. New Zealand Orchids, Some ............. Occurrence of Rot in Orchids, The Odontoglossum Culture in France ......... Odontoglossum x Sunfly var. Glenda Raymond Orchidaceousw:l deals amet: at nie aneeen aieiere eenne Vol. 17 17 18 18 19 19 17 19 17 17 18 19 17 18 19 19 18 18 19 17 19 19 19 18 18 17 19 18 17 19 18 18 17 18 18 17 18 19 17 18 19 17 17 17 17 18 18 19 19 18 18 19 17 19 19 19 19 19 164 133 165 107 121 118 163 10 8-25 86-94 17-31 104-122 15-36 106-124 30 32 105 131 71 171 16 29 118 17 17 18 18 19 19 PW PWD PW 52-66 121-134 60-70 148-168 60-80 158-176 1 | ] | | | | | Orchid Club of S.A,. Ann Exhibition, The -.ccc0ccnnnenmnnnne Orchid Collecting in New Guinea... OrchidMiGll tram neanee ener Orchid Culture in Brisbane ............ Orchid Culture in a Cold Climate ... Orchid Culture, Some Basic Scientific Principles in Orchid Export Markets in the U.K. and U.S.A. Orchid Growing on the Blue Mountains, N.S.W. Orchid MOSaic orem “ Orchid Mosaic, Prevention ‘enitak rire: of Orchid Nutrition Orchid Shows, 1952 as 1953 Pave raced da nteat tenet Aten ts erctisentente enctetercors Orchid Society of N.S.W., Shows 1952, The ... 1953 1954 Orchid Standards Orchid Virus, Some Notes on... Orchid Viruses, Some Notes on . OrchidSs fone Lx pOLbaseteanan anata Orchids in the Springtime cece Orchids of Barrington Tops, N.S.W., The . Orchids of Mt. Beauty, Vic., The 0... Orchids of Wilson River, N.S.W., The . Pauwels, The late Theodore Pest Control, A Table for . ae PeSt Control, Trends in wcccccmsctnnensnenennnratnemeanmennnisniaantrinasain Phalaenopsis, The Genus .... i Potting Receptacles—Large or Small .... Prize Winners, O.S. of N.S.W. Festival 1952, The 1953 1954 Puzzled Raising New Hybrids from Seed . sini Raising Seedlings, Some further Notes on. ..... Read, The late Isaac W. Retrospect of an Orchid Fancier, “The . Slugs and (Smalls geese nncnneynony nosis Slugs and Snails, A New. ‘Method. of ‘Contro ling eaten Some Factors Influencing the Growth of Orchids .. Standards for the Odontoglossum Group Sugar-Cane Fibre as a Compost, ... ATS ar kaeeneneentaeee: To Feed or Not to Feed .... fy Townsville Orchid Society 1953 ‘Show, “The. z VETihS eee Vandas, The Culture fora Vase of Cymbidiums, The ...... Vegetative Propagation of Orchids, ‘The Victorian Orchid Club 1952 Show ~....... O53 fear 1954 Virus Diseases of Orchids «0... Visit to Charlesworth & Co. Ltd. Wardian Case, The .. ‘Worth, W. B. Vol. 1? 18 18 18 18 18 19 19 17 18 18 18 17 18 19 19 17 18 18 17 19 19 17 17% 19 19 18 19 19 19 18 17 17 18 19 19 17 19 19 17% 18 19 17 17 18 17 18 17 18 17 19 17 Wy 18 18 19 18 MW 19 17 BPE VEWWH ERY WH RH NY KOR PWN VYYE PP PRR SER RW WWNDWHNNYNYPWHHORNNNY WR WY WY WR HOE Page 26 161 113 29 162 102 14 78 81 52 149 115. 58-62 14 60-72 159-176 80 106 113 124 719 16 57 80 69 108 - 114 104 160 156 166 95 125 157 163 35 135 27 75 45 70 104 122 13 105 51 72 25 27 93 13 118 29 25 119 115 23 63 36 133 Vol. 18 17 18 19 VW 19 19 18 19 18 No. 2 oo W& oO Pep 4 4 2 Page 68 82-98 122 104-124 132 25 163 159 159 59 INDEX TO ILLUSTRATIONS Brassocattleya x Gatton Lily (Front Cover) Brassolaeliocattleya x Bow Bells var. Snow Cloud Brassolaeliocattleya x Normans Bay var. Wondabah (colour) Begg, A. R. Bisset, J. Bromheadiag-venusStery tes ecpteccstrtectenntee Me ceEE Is RNS i tncc ee Ne Cirrhopetalum fascinator .. Climatological Graphs ......... Coelogyne occultata (Front Cover) Cymbidium x Adele Sander var. Narcissus (colour) ... Cymbidium x Arabella var. Magnificent Cymbidium x Balkis var. Janette (colour) ... Cymbidium x Carisbrook var. Merrilong . Cymbidium x Cassandra var. Exquisite ........ Cymbidium x Cassandra var. Jennifer Cymbidium x Cygnus var. Auriflame ........ Cymbidium x Cyzara var. Remembrance (colour) .. Cymbidium x Dorchester var. Jeanette (Front Cover) .......... Cymbidium x Eagle var. Snow Queen ......... Cymbidium x Flamingo var. Allambie ....... Riad Cymbidium x Gibraltar var. Wondabah (Front Cover) .......... Cymbidium x Girrahween var. Enid Symbidium x Girrahween var. Gloria (colour) Cymbidium x Girrahween var. Red Star ecco Cymbidium x Independence Day var. Girrilong Cymbidium x Ispahan var. Mascot (Front Cover) .... Cymbidium x Istanbul var. Isobel (Front Cover) Cymbidium x Jungfrau var. Felicity ne Cymbidium x Louis Sander var. Kirribilli (Front Cover) .... Cymbidium x Memoria Albertii var. Albert .. Cymbidium x Miranda var, Maisie occu Cymbidium x Princess Elizabeth var. Maisie Cymbidium x Neville Chamberlain. ................. Cymbidium x Princesse Astrid var. orn Cymbidium x Rhamboda var. Merrilong ..... Cymbidium x Rusleur var. Balmoral .......... Cymbidium x Sandpiper var. Dorothy ccc Cymbidium x Sussex var. Laelia Sasso (colour) Cymbidium x Swallow var. Bellevue Cymbidium var. Daffodil Cymbidium x Hebe ................. Cymbidium x Swallow var. Jill Cymbidium x Swallow var. Lemon Beauty .. Cymbidium x Swallow var. Soulangeana . Cymbidiums, A Vase of . Sos br Cypripedium x Balaclava ° var. . Margaret . Cypripedium x Betty Wilson var. Henley .. Cypripedium x Brita var. Rotunda .... Cypripedium x Conigar var. Verlie ....... Cypripedium x Evansrose var. Laelia Sasso ... Cypripedium x Lady Kitty Laura var. Henley ...cccmmunnnunnnn Cypripedium x Langley Pride var. Laelio Sasso (colour) Cypripedium x Penlea var. Laelia SASSO ..n.ccccmmmnnnnnnmnnnns Cypripedium x Rhine x Grassington .. Cypripedium x Selena 0. Cypripedium x Selena var. Verlie . No. RPReE PPP PRP NYE NEP WNWE PRP WAY EP NDNYNYEPNYDY yD KWH NWP RED LPWwWwWwWPRnndw dE. RP WR DY eB Page 129 19 55 lii 100 111 154 154 108 128 127 12% 129 127 Vol. 19 19 18 No. Page 65 110 108 Cypripedium x Tearlath var. Distinction .. Cypripedium x Tearlath var, Henley ......... Cypripedium x Tearlath var. Margaret Ann... Sypripedium x Thule var. The Globe Sypripedium x Utopia var Girrahween .. Dendrobium aemulum ........... Dendrobium canaliculatum ..... Dendrobium x Cranbrook var. Henley .. Dendrobium x Gatton Monarch var. Christine Read . Dendrobium gracilicaule Dendrobium infundibulum Dendrobium x Lady Constance var. Country Fair Dendrobium linguiforme Dendrobium masonii Dendrobium ostrinoglossum woe Dendrobium x Pompadour var. Wondabah _ Dendrobium speciosum (Front Cover) em.r.u06\j| Dendrobium x Sunburst var. Tain (colour) Dendrobium thyrsiflorum (Front Cover) “ District Exhibits O.S. of N.S.W., 1951 onmmnmnnnnnnmnnnnnnnnne Eria@linarlifloraenwncteciae sores ties ter cerita ich Oe eae eer ae General Apparatus used in Raising Seedlings . Glossodia emarginata (Front Cover) Hot-Box, Plan of Low-voltage Insect Pests Laeliocattleya. General Maude x Valencia var. Rydal Mount Laeliocattleya X Moloch var. Sidon (COOUL) veces Laeliocattleya Ste TEATSN GES), EDN, IRENE) anoscrperr coven sess ronminsypean roma eragess avred de Miltonia x Emotion (Front Cover) Miltonia x Lycaena var. Stamperland . Miltonia x Petunia var. Red Admiral Miltonia x Velvet Charm var. Paul ... Miltonia x Velvet Charm var, Ruby Miltonia x Woodlands var. Bellevue c.civ:suersnnnnnnnnninncsn Odontoglossum x Dryade (Front COVE) crcnncnntnnnmnsunnss Odontoglossum x Sunfly var. Glenda Raymond (colour) Odontonia x Moliere ... Offshoot on Cattleya Skinneri .... Oncidium x Palmyre var. Diane Orchid Collecting in New Guinea . Orchids by Air—B.O.A.C. ccnnunmnen Packing Orchids for Exportation Phalaenopsis x Louisa Georgina var. Noni Phalaenopsis x Reve Rose var. Balmoral DH Readings Read, The late I. W. Sarcochilus Hartmannii Sophrolaeliocattleya x Trizac var. ONL Da eae nanent nn Vanda coerulea, var. Tain (colour) Vanda coerulea var. Wondabah ....... Vanda x Punchbowl] var. Laelia Sasso occnnn Vanda x Rothschildiana var. Balmoral (colour) f Virus Caused Symptoms or Orchid Mosaic Virus Diseases Of OLChid. .vmvscnsssnnsunuaansnanainrnniinmmuniaaninss Vol. Rw PwWwP PW Ve Wed VNVwAWNNnNVdeE HR WHR PWD WwWwd Fw COR TD me RPM DWP ene Wye Vww Pw VW Pe Zz cI Page 155 110 55-56 Vol. No. Page AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 PAGE 1 | Special Announcement to Orchid Enthusiasts John Bisset has pleasure in announcing the publication of Two Books on Orchid Culture which are invaluable aids to Orchid enthusiasts. THE CHARM OF GROWING ORCHIDS FOR EVERYBODY ORCHIDS by R. Bruce Hogg by P. A. Gilbert Over 200 pages with 32 pages of 232 pages of Cultural Notes and Photos Illustrations. Price 21/- (Post I/- extra) Price 25/- (Post I/- extra) PRIVATE (Evenings) JA8906 NURSERY — Phone WAI124 JOHN BISSET FLANDRIA QUALITY IN os BRUGES BELGIUM ORCHIDS Thousands of mature and flowering- CYMBIDIUMS (hybrids) sized Cattleya, Brassocattleya, Brasso- Toteludi : er laeliocattleya, Laeliocattleya, Potinara, cane higs Maui? NCES Sophrolaeliocattleya available. s CYPRIPEDIUM hybrids for first class cut flowers. CYMBIDIUM: The collection of 5,000 plants previously advertised is now sold. However, we are in a position to offer Inspection Invited on any day by arrangement : Cymbidium seedlings of excellent par- | entage and in large quantities. L. H. NEWMAN e 3 80 Provincial Road, Lindfield Bank Drafts for plants now obtainable from .SYDNEY, N.S.W. your Bank. Tel. JM2803 Special offers and Lists airmailed free on request. PRANK -Sb Al i ERY 12 EDDYSTONE RD., BEXLEY SYDNEY, N.S.W. cordially invites all Orchid Lovers to inspect his stocks of Australian raised Cymbidium and Cattleya seedlings on hand. Dendrobiums, Phaius, , Miscellaneous Orchids, etc. Call and inspect a vey compact Hot Box, and the simple and economical Aladdin Glass House Heater, for the improvement of growth in nursery plants. Phone: LX2985 Beginners welcomed and every assistance given PAGE 2 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 "CARE ING Rae 3. are happy to report a MARVELLOUS RECOVERY from December's Bushfires Due to the fire, of course, thousands of immediately and reserve a copy of Roy Deane’s NEW ORCHID BOOK Sent post free anywhere. This book is now in preparation. “Greenacre” plants were divided and re- potted. Fhese are now showing wonderful growth—in some cases two new growths where only one would be expected normally. Address your letter as follows and a copy will be sent to you within the next few All lovers of good orchids should write weeks. ; “Greenacres’—Valley Heights Remember—at GREENACRES a child On the Lower Blue Mountains, N.S.W. can buy Orchids with complete safety. BLACK & FLORY Ltd. ESD We have a limited number of FLOWERED Cattleyas, FLOWERED Cypripediums and FLOWERED Cymbidiums for sale and are able to despatch to Australia throughout our winter, due to our proximity to London Airport. We do not at present issue a catalogue, but lists of plants will be willingly sent to enquirers. Please state in what genera interested. We do not sell community pots or small plants. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 ODONTOGLOSSUMS ODONTIODAS | and allied genera in great variety are available to you from the CHOICEST STOCK IN THE WORLD HIGH QUALITY MODERN HYBRIDS in a wider colour range than exists in any other generic group of orchids NO LESS THAN 47 AWARDS BY THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY SECURED BY OUR ODONTOGLOS- SUMS AND ALLIED GENERA SINCE 1948 We shall have the pleasure in quoting you in these or other genera on advice of your requirements to : CHARLESWORTH & Co. Ltd. Haywards Heath, Sussex, England For the finest ORCHID HYBRIDS in all genera Specialty of: _ Cattleyas and allied genera Vandas, Phalaenopses Miltonias, Odontonias and Odontoglossums Australian clients can obtain our Catalogue from L. Giles, Carlingford, N.S.W. VACHEROT-LECOUFLE BOISSY—SAINT—LEGER Seine et Oise, FRANCE Cable: Vacherot—Boissy St. Leger Seine et Oise, France Phone: Boissy St. Leger 42 VISITORS WELCOME PAGE 3 INDIAN ORCHIDS By Air or Sea. Direct from our Nurseries Cymbidium, Cypripedium, Dendrobium, Vanda Coerulea, etc. We stock all the best kinds of horti- cultural and botanical Indian Orchids. Write for our catalogue now, and place your order immediately for the Indian Autumn (November approxi- mately) delivery. G. GHOSE & CO. Townend, DARJEELING, INDIA To Glass-House Owners HAVE YOUR GLASS-HOUSES PAINTED BY EXPERTS Ring XM1434 L. J. BUSH . 468 NEW ST., ELSTERNWICK, VIC. MEMBER MASTER .PAINTERS' ASSOCIATION. TREMORVA ORCHIDS Good quality Cymbidiums at reasonable prices. SURPLUS STOCK SALE Inspection Saturday Afternoon, Sundays only. Country enquiries and orders receive prompt attention. TREMORVA ORCHIDS 24. Murray St., Lane Cove, N.S.W. Off Ralston’ St., near Mowbray Road. JAS5I06 PAGE 4 SHEAD’S ORCHIDARIUM TH A SEASONAL ANNOUNCEMENT Of interest to all Orchid enthusiasts. The Orchidarium is now open to local visitors, country clients, and all those interested in the growing cf Orchids. This season promises to be our best as all our Champion Cymbidiums are showing every indication of surpassing our previous efforts in the quality and excellence of our spikes and blooms, the growth and bulb develop- ment being superior in every respect. We have now completed all our building operations which include modern Tea- rooms, and other conveniences for our customers, such as seating accommodation, and full protection from rain and stormy weather. Due to the elevated position of Shead’s Orchidarium, several Look-outs provide an unsurpassed panoramic view of the surrounding suburbs. Immediately below the Look-outs native shrubs, trees, and other ornamental vegetation help to form a rest- ful scene. Country, Interstate, and Overseas Orchid enthusiasts will enjcy inspect- ing this leading Show: place for Orchids. There is not anything like it in Australia. Spend a Saturday or Sunday amid beautiful Orchids in a superb environment. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 a hi a Re i UN ll —————————————————— AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 PAGE 5 MODERN SEED-RAISING PLANT The completion of one of the most modern and complete laboratories for raising seedlings of all varieties of Orchids has been accomplished. The Orchidarium’s Lab- oratory is built of plate and commercial glass throughout. We have been particu- larly fortunate in being able to engage Mr. Van de Brun from England, who also has been occupied in Orchid culture in Holland and India, to manage this industry for us. ‘The wide experience of this expert will be available for answering inquiries with regard to seedlings, and all communications should be addressed to him personally, c/- of Shead’s Orchidarium., Here in the Orchidarium you will be able to examine seeds being raised under exactly the same methcds as those in use in Holland and the U.S.A. LABOUR DIFFICULTIES HAVE BEEN OVERCOME Owing to the many difficulties associated with building operations, the general shortage of labour, and our inability to secure suitable clerical assistance, we have been unable to answer hundreds of inquiries about Orchid culture received from our | numerous clients all over Australia. This shortcoming has now been completely rec- tified. By writing to Mr. J. O’Brien, c/- Shead’s Orchidarium, all inquiries in future will be answered immediately. | Our floral display will begin early in June and terminate about *ihe end of November. Do not fail to visit the Orchidarium during this period. Open every day in the week from from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Orchidarium carries large stocks of all accessories to Orchid culture— compests, pots, labels, etc. “The beginner or advanced grower will find it very convenient to buy at Shead’s Orchidarium. SHEAD’S ORCHIDARIUM 105 HOMER ST., EARLWOOD, N.S.W. Phone: LL3591 LOCATION ( Shead’s Orchidarium is six (6) miles from Sydney, and is situated on top of the hill just over the Cook’s River Bridge at Undercliffe on the Earlwood tramline. A regular and frequent tram service from Sydney to Earlwood stops at the entrance to the Orchidarium. Visitors travelling by rail should alight at Marrickville Station, then take the tram, alighting at the third stop after crossing the Cook’s River Bridge. Motorists pass over the Marrickville Rail- way Bridge, following the tramline to the top of the hill at Earlwood. OTD Ne Sk LS Be na eT eee ae PAGE 6 Sime AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 orchids to the eWei He Business as usual We are the original pioneers and largest consignors of cymbidium blooms throughout the world. Our system of packing, merchandising and consign- ing is recognised in the United States as the best. We collect regularly during the season. RELIABILITY, SERVICE AND SATISFACTION WE PAY HIGHEST PRICES AND CASH! CONTACT US EARLY. Get Melle Cele sis 172 HARROW ROAD, KOGARAH, N.S.W. Telephone LW3502 South Yarra \ Se ey } 7 / : h, “l Se” ustratian ront CVLEW Volume 17 MARCH, 1952 | No. 1 The author of each article is responsible for the facts and opinions expressed therein. : Contents i ‘ ARTICLES AustraliangOrchid@Revicw, i LiNepsesmicce) Slur the soins lta mnnnmErt: oe 15 Agterikeaney nie (Mp ae ge ye ee ees Lee ke 9 Awards, O.S. of N.S.W., and Vic. O. Glub Weal Cae 2 ye el: Coelogyne occultata—G. Ghose ww ee ten urd Aca LA, Cultural Notes eee Wd Writ) SE A RE jo dei 14, 15, 21, 25 Diseases and Pests of Orchids—C. G. Williams (one um sme 24 District Exhibits (O.S. of N.S.W.) Jubilee Orchid Festival,” 1951— Douglas oer eet et a wade hae Tae Lh SEN 16 Editorial Sotho tide ha) ae mi 3.8 SEES te Bera. siekac 8 Fitzgerald, Robert David—Rev. H. M. R. Rupp ome me ssn 22 Judging Standards for Awards, The—R. Vick eh Nace LL Letters _..... ae Ly ava Se age Pe bite Ti sine Ge 10 Method to Soften Herbarium Materia os one (aioe aa en ae 2B More About Orchid Composts—T. H. James (wc ne tae bead SEPM Newcastle Orchid Society—W. M. Hollinshead ane fn ree 12403 New Orchid Journal, A—(review) cays Pie ee. oh ean PLO. News and Notes _..... ag ees ey ory se 8, 14, 15, 21, 25 Orchid Club of South Australia Annual Exhibition, The .. 0... 26 Standards for the Odontoglossum Group 92 ese tee tne te 13. Townsville Orchid Society at Se Ae Recreate Sys 25 : Vegetative Propagation of Orchids, The—J. G. Smith Re 1 ea 29 ILLUSTRATIONS Brassolaeliocattleya x Normans Bay var. Wondabah (colour) . ..... 19 Coelogyne occultata (Front Cover)—G. Ghose ; District Exhibits (O.S. of N.S.W., 1951)—W. Harris : (8) Earlwood District Orchid Society _.... Sra Romi esta 20 (3) (4) Eastwood and District Orchid Circle Ribs a “ent 17, 19 (6) Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Orchid Society.ieaeae nme METS (7) Mosman Home Gardeners’ Association oe acy Se en 20 (5) Sydney Orchid Club pret ean peed Side eee NES (1) (2) Western Suburbs Orchid Society be: oi ie, She 17,19 Personnel Hon. Editor: P. A. Gilbert, 37 Colin St., Lakemba, N.S.W. Associates QUEENSLAND: : VICTORIA: SOUTH AUSTRALIA WESTERN AUSTRALIA: TASMANIA: T . Vick R. J. Langdon AMC 7 . 15. Challinor St 32 Hevintots Av. 8 Reet St. 50 Bay View Tee : Hersteeeecs Ipswich. Balwyn, E.8. Millswood Mosman Park Sandy Bay and drawings are invited, and may be forwarded to any of the above gentlemen, for publication in Articles, photos, 5 pat the Australian Orchid Review. See While the Proprietors of the Australian Orchid Review endeavour to assure the reliability of their advertising, neither the Proprietors of the ‘‘Australian Orchid Review’’ nor the affiliated Orchid Societies can assume responsibility for any transactions between their advertisers and their readers. Subscription Rates: Australia and New Zealand, 12/6 per annum; Overseas, 12/6 sterling per annum. Post free. Payable to Shepherd & Newman Pty. Ltd., Yurong St., Sydney, Australia. ’ AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 Editorial Ma PAGE 8 <a In this and recent numbers of the Australian Orchid Review, both Victorian and New South Wales Orchid enthusiasts have raised the issue of improving the methods of judging show flowers and granting awards. All these papers, undoubtedly, are read with enthusiasm by those genuinely interested in the advancement of prize horticultural types. The end of hybridization is not yet in sight and, until it is, the perfect flower remains un- attainable. Consequently, a continual revision of standards will have to take place until the idealistic perfect shape, the generally pleasing colour and utilisable size have been achieved. Hence, at present, the society that elects to stabilize its standards by resisting any periodical alterations will be hopelessly out of date within a few years. Arriving at an ideal standard in Australia is still in the evolutionary stage and until the floral form is fixed by hybridists it is well nigh impossible to formulate a fixed standard, The rank of championship for the Cym- bidium, in particular, has been severely criti- cized. There are two ways of meeting this dissatisfaction. Firstly; a rigid standard can be worked out to apply to the champion, with a consequent refusal by the judge or judges to grant a championship if the plant or Orchid does not reach the required number of points. In a large exhibition the rejection of a cham- pionship would detract immensely from the value of an exhibition as an educational display and we should probably hear a remark some- thing like the following:—‘Just fancy a large seasonal show like this being unable to stage a champion!” Secondly, the champion can be selected from varieties which may be inferior, mediocre or superior in quality. Thus, in the case of Cym- bidiums, a common type could win as champion in one show, while a choice variety would be hard put to to win in another display. Hence, in this instance, without rigid judging rules the championship is relative to the immediate entries on the show bench and is therefore valueless as a basis of comparison for horticultural excel- lence. . The most reasonable approach seems to be that a championship standard be arrived at and, unless an exhibit reaches that standard, there shall not be any award. A champion in any major show should score Award of Merit points or higher.” In framing a standard we should be consistent in our idealism. Thus, if the round flower is adopted as the ideal shape, other shapes should ‘ be mentioned in the category—oblong or tri- angle, for instance, stating their relative in- feriority. The ideal for size should be definite, again taking the Cymbidium. ‘The larger the flower gets the further away from roundness it becomes and observations over a number of years reveal that the Cymbidium flowers that fit in from three and a half inches to four anda quar- ter inches measurements across the petals are generally nearer roundness than other sizes, hence, the emphasis in points should be on these sizes to coincide with the ideal of: roundness. Cymbidium: lovers in particular are search- ing for the ideal number of flowers on the raceme. Having regard for the origin of our best show types, seven to thirteen flowers would appear to be the full expectation of the inflor- escence, and if this margin is accepted as the ideal raceme, here again, the allocation of points should be made in such a way as to cover the idealistic range in the number of flowers—nine to twelve flowers being treated with greater significance. The gradually arching stem dis- plays Cymbidium flowers to greater advan- tage than either the erect stem or the stem that is more or less horizontal, and thus we should extend our idealism to the gently arching stem. In formulating a Cymbidium standard on the points system, for instance, the series of ideal characters should be clearly stated for the bene- fit of competitors, the points being allocated so that they can be used to the best advantage on these ideal characters, and thus give the com- petitors a clear idea of what is required. To attain perfection in judging, a close study of the characters of the flower in relation to the work the points have to do would lead to better exhibitions and greater satisfaction among ex- hibitors. ® California Cymbidium Growers’ Associ- ation has been formed for the purpose of stabil- izing the marketing of Cynebidium flowers and for the establishment of a system for grading Cymbidium blooms. It is hoped that the system will be adopted nationally (A.O.S.B., p. 663, Nov., 1951). A note suggesting a similar move locally appeared in the A.O.R., Vol. 15, No. 4, jee: SE, AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 PAGE 9 Awards R. BRUCE HOGG, Brunswick, Vic. @ During a recent trip abroad, I took the op- portunity to discuss with prominent growers in Britain the granting of Awards, and I feel that I would like to put before readers of the Aws- trelian Orchid Review my views on this subject. Readers will probably remember that on occasions I have criticized the present Aus- tralian method of granting awards, but let me first explain the method adopted in England. About twenty good judges who are members of the Orchid section. of the Royal Horticultural Society sit as award judges, but, of course, a judge is not allowed to sit when any plant of his has been submitted for an award. The plant submitted is placed on the table and passed round from member to member of the Com- mittee, Mild comment such as “that is a beauti- ful flower” or “don’t like its conformation” is allowed, but no member sitting at the table is permitted to express to other members his reason for not being prepared to vote in favour of an award being granted or to try to influence other members in judgment. The plant is not submitted for an A.M. or an F.C.C, It is merely submitted for an award. The R.H.S. requires that a certain number of members be present to form a quorum and in the event of a pre- determined percentage of those present voting in favour of an award, the award granted will be dependent upon the number of votes re- ceived. I do not remember the precise percent- ages, but shall we say that to receive an A.M. not less than 75 per cent. of those present must vote in favour and to receive an F.C.C. not less than 85 per cent. must vote in fawour. Thus a plant receiving an A.M. would receive be- tween 75 and 84. per cent. of the votes cast, whilst should 85 per cent. or more votes be in favour of an award, the plant automatically re- ceives an F,C.C. This explains the expression that we frequently see in catalogues and else- where —F.C.C., unanimous, which obviously means that every member present at the meet- ing voted in favour of an award being granted to that particular plant. The R.H.S. Committee has available to it the paintings of all plants granted an award and the painting of any plant of the same cross as that submitted which had previously re- ceived an award is brought out for comparison with the flower being judged. The plant sub- mitted and being considered at that time must be considered better than the one of the same cross which previously received an award before an award will be granted. There are no points allotted and judgment is entirely according to the more or less spon- taneous response of the experts present. This, I think, is a far better method than that which prevails in Australia. In the interest of Orchid culture throughout the world, it is most desirable that uniform methods of granting awards be adopted by the various Orchid Societies empowered to do so, for the award then becomes a standard of quality which would be universal throughout the world. If in Australia we establish rules for the granting of an award which makes the receipt of awards far less frequent than elsewhere, as time proceeds it is not at all improbable that the impression would be developed abroad that Australian Orchids are not up to the standard of other countries because fewer awards are granted. Again, growers in other countries wishing to purchase plants in Australia without personal inspection, would not be encouraged to pay a high price, by reason of the fact that the plant offered does not carry an award. This could be totally unjust to our Australian Orchids and could be a means whereby the sale or exchange of an Australian plant in other countries would be at a price which was con- siderably lower than the value of the plant, by reason of the fact that it does not carry an award. Should the impression prevail that too many awards are being granted, then negotiations should take place with the various Orchid Societies to tighten up their method of grant- ing awards, for if we in Australia greatly re- strict our awards while in other countries they are freely granted, we must be at a disadvantage compared with those other countries. Finally, the character and parentage of a plant must be taken into consideration and a plant must not necessarily suffer if it reproduces certain characteristics which, being hereditary, are contrary to the standard set out in our points system. A points sytem such as that which prevails in this country could mean that, assuming all growers aspire to own award plants, a very great similarity of type must occur and thus, ultimately, our collections would not be nearly as comprehensive as would be the case elsewhere, where the method of judging differs. PAGE 10 To enlarge upon this point, let me use the horse as a simile. The horse is a genus of which there are many types. If, in judging horses at shows, standards are set up for the entire genus, just how would a Shetland pony be judged in com- parison with an Arab or a Draught horse. I think it must be accepted that the hereditary characteristics of the hybrid must be taken into account. The points system might well be adopted and retained for use at Orchid shows, but, in my opinion, should be discarded for use in the granting of awards. At a show, the judges in selecting the best Orchid are frequently pre- sented with a large number of plants which, to all intents and purposes, are equal to each other. If it is necessary to single one of those plants out to be declared the best of its genus in the show, probably it could only be separated from its competitors by the use of a points sys- tem; but such a system, while it lends itself splendidly to show judging, should not be adopted in granting awards. @ A New Orchid Journal—The Orchid Journal, which came into circulation during January, 1952, is briefly described as an inter- national review of Orchidology. The Journal, which will be published monthly, made both an auspicious and an ambitious entry into the world of Orchids. Judging from the initial number, the Journal intends to cover an ex- tremely wide field, so that whatever phase the reader may be interested in he will find infor- mation thereon within its covers. The illustra- tions, in the main, are botanical and mostly good, while the text covers a large variety of subjects. The format is 10jin. x 7in; 48 pages, with art paper throughout. “The Orchids of Kenya,” by Dr. F. Piers, is an outstanding botanical contribution, pro- fusely illustrated; Rebecca T. Northern dis- courses rather happily on “The Reproductive Parts of Orchids;’? “Orchids—What They Are and How to Use Them” is a breezy introduc- tion by the editor, Alex D. Hawkes; and lo! (take note Australian botanists) Mr. Trevor E. Hunt, our Queensland associate, describes and illustrates a new species of Greenhood for Queensland, namely, Pterostylis Russellit. Our librarian (O.S. of N.S.W.), Mr. Need- ham, has placed on order two copies of the Orchid Journal, which will be available in due course. Those preferring their own copies can procure them from A. D. Hawkes, Editor, The Orchid Journal, 2634 College Avenue, Berkeley 4, California, U.S.A., by International Money Order for five dollars, fifty cents ($5.50). AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 @ A. E. Marsh, 41 St. James’s Place, Piccadilly, 5.W.1., London, England (9/11/51), writes:— “J have just seen your September, 1951 issue of the Australian Orchid Review and do want to congratulate you on a first-class journal. In- cluded in the issue is a picture which I sent you of the State Visit of the King and Queen of Denmark to the Guildhall. I am pleased that you were able to use this. I am wondering whether an article accom- panied by two photographs on “Growing Orchids for Export” would interest your readers and if you care to let me know, I am sure that Mr. Peter Black will be more than happy to prepare an article for you—without fee. Recently the Bristol Orchid Society, com- prising a party of over 50, spent three hours at Messrs. Black & Flory’s Nursery, and it is in- teresting to see how the number of Orchid growers has steadily increased in this country. A moyement is afoot at the moment, by the Royal Horticultural Society, to form further Orchid clubs throughout the country and I can see, within the next ten years, a great extension of the industry. a All these things, I know, will interest you, and intend, if you would like me to, to keep you advised of what is happening in this country.” @ Mr. Emil F. Vacin, San Marino 9, Califor- nia, writes: — “In your September, 1951, issue Vol. 16, No. 3, of the Australian Orchid Review, you men- tion that my series of reports in the Cymbidium News on “The Development of a Cymbidium Compost” have been concluded. This is in error, since the series will continue for several years before all the planned experimental work is completed. The experiments on the value of Osmunda and charcoal as ingredients of Cym- bidium composts have been completed and the report has gone to press. Two additional reports are now in prepara- tion, one on the value of C2 and A3 composts discussed in the reports, and the other on the detrimental effects of earthworms, centipedes and millipedes on Cymbidium composts. The experiments on the control of the flowering of Cymbidium plants (flowering them for the crucial market periods) have shown very in- teresting results. However, another year of experimental work will be required before the results can be published. The above are some of the reasons why this work will continue for several years.” 4/11/51. xin oy AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 PAGE 11 The Judging Standards for Awards R. VICK, Balwyn, Vic. Ee eee pleasing and a sign of progress to ee the interest being shown by growers in this aes The article on the Cymbidium Standard, y Mr. A. R. Persson, and that by Mr. T. H. James on The Points System of Judging were read with great interest and led to much healthy discussion, Now Mr. R. Bruce Hogg, who has recently returned from a visit to England, has kindly written another article which appears in this ie and I am sure he will not mind some fur- : er comments from me. But, before coming © any decision, I would certainly recommend feces to study carefully all the articles that ave appeared in the A.O.R. during the past year or two. ree Hogg briefly and interestingly describes © system of submitting plants for awards in England. Assuming that Mr. Hogg’s explana- ton of the plan is correct, I wish to point out certain features—to me weaknesses—but I do fae trust that these comments will not be cooked upon as destructive criticism or un- worthy comments. J assure readers nothing could be further from my mind. In any case, Circumstances alter cases; and here in Australia how many Orchid fanciers have been growing . and judging Orchid flowers as long as have many of England’s experienced growers? How- ever, a great deal of intense study and discussion has led to the drafting of the Judging Standards now in use in New South Wales and Victoria. Mr. Hogg says, “Mild comment . . . is allowed, but no member . . . is permitted to express . ., his reason for not being prepared to vote in favour of an award being granted or to try to influence other members in judg- Ment.” No discussion can produce conservatism and unsatisfactory decisions. What judge of pas or animals has not missed certain eatures, good or bad, until these have been Pointed out by some other person? Discussion should not mean an attempt to force another Judge to change his decision, but it should. help all the judges to evaluate more correctly all the good and weak features of the flower and to 8lve a more balanced judgment individually as well as a more correct one. When are judges to discuss with one another the flowers submitted? Ow are growers to know what the weaknesses of their flowers are? . et quote again, “The plant . . . is merely ubmitted for an award.” The award granted is dependent upon the number of votes received. If such is the case, it reveals a fundamental dif- ference in conception of granting F.C.C. and A.M. awards in Australia and in England. In Egland the F.C.C. is granted if 85 per cent. (presuming this is the figure) of votes favour granting an award; in Australia the flower has to reach that percentage of perfection as set out in the judging standards. To put it another way —all the judges on the panel in Australia might favour an award, but that award might. be an A.M. only (most frequently is, if the flower does gain an award) because they think the flower does not reach 85 per cent. of perfection. Again, some judges may, give higher value, some lower, but the average of their decisions decides the issue—and, incidentally, this is one big ad- vantage of the points system. One big weakness in the English system (as- suming as always that Mr. Hogg’s explanation is correct) is revealed by the statement that “The plant submitted and being considered at the time must be considered better than the one of the same cross which previously received an award, before an award. will be granted.” Let us take an example. Suppose Cymbidium x Swallow var. X received the award “B.C.C, unanimous.” Then it becomes almost useless for growers to put up other varieties. of C. x Swallow for awards, unless they feel sure of also gaining 100 per cent. of judges’ votes. Any one of these flowers, to succeed, would have to be better than the variety X. The situa- tion becomes very unsatisfactory if variety X happens to be the first of that particular cross to gain an award. However, if variety A was submitted first and if it was just successful in gaining the A.M., other varieties of that cross might gain awards if each was successively bet- ter than the previous one—better in the sense that more judges voted for them as each was judged. In Australia we can have any number of varieties of Cymbidium x Swallow gaining awards provided they each gain 80 per cent. or more of the: possible number of points. So I am sorry that I cannot agree that the English sys- tem is the better—good as it undoubtedly is. J thoroughly agree with Mr. Hogg that wni- form methods (and I would add standards) of judging are very desirable. To my mind stan- dards are more important than methods. It is pleasing to know that the New South Wales Orchid Society and the Victorian Orchid Club PAGE 12 are in consultation on these matters and progress is good. By the time these articles appear in print we can only hope that the two States will be working on a uniform basis. Mr. Hogg’s fears that Australian plants may have a less value in other countries because of less awards being granted will, I trust, not be realized. Firstly, flowers. should reach the high standards set, and standards should not be lowered so that more flowers gain awards. High quality is the best advertisement where sales to other countries are concerned and, once this becomes known, values are enhanced. Secondly, air transit enables flowers, photos, paintings, etc., to be expeditiously exchanged these days, so parties concerned are able to judge for them- selves the quality of plants on offer. Mr. Hogg’s final paragraph calls for some comment. Firstly, let it be noted that our award standards are based on the “exhibition” type of flower—not the ‘‘decorative” type. Rose lovers years ago found it necessary to have an exhibition type and a decorative type, and it is the aim of rose hybridists to raise “the perfect rose’’—an exhibition type of perfect form and colour. The modern rose in its development to this ideal, is a great improvement, by rose stan- dards, on any of the species of Roses used in its development. Yet, will rose judges give an award—best rose in the show—to that delight- ful and so often perfectly formed miniature Cecil Brunner over a full-sized, ye slighlty less perfect Crimson Glory or Ophelia? Mr. Hogg’s choice of the horse as a simile is not a good one, for one standard for the entire genus is not in use. There is one for the Shet- land, one for the Arab, another for the Clydes- dale and so on. But if the above three types were interbred, is it not immediately evident that a new standard for the new hybrid horse has to be set up? Mr. Hogg states, “I think it must be accepted that the hereditary charac- teristics of the hybrid must be taken into account.” How would you judge one of these hybrid animals if it had the head of a Shetland, the legs of an Arab and the body of a Clydes- dale? No, a new standard for the new type of horse has to be set up and breeders have to “breed up” to that standard. If you breed Shet- lands only, you keep to the standard set up for that type and likewise for other pure breeds. Now, carry this to the present-day Orchid. Take an example of the Cutfleya type of modern hybrid, say, Lc. x Elissa A year or two ago I worked out its parentage and, if memory serves me right, found it had eight distinct blood lines—seven Cattleya species (Warsce- AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 wiczii, Lueddemanniana, Dowiana, Labiata, Warneri, Schilleriana and Trianae) and one Laelia. How can judges allow “hereditary characteristics” of any one of the blood-lines to be taken into account? Again, in Cypripedium x Grace Darling flows the blood of five species—Spicerianum, Druryi, villosum, insigne and Boxallii. If put up for award, are the judges to allow for the hereditary characteristics of any one or all of these, if they appear? One could understand this being ‘“‘allowed for” for the first two or three generations; but what should we expect after a number of generations? Some of the present-day Cypripe- diums are up to a dozen or more generations re- moved from the species. Take as an example, Cyp. x Aylesbury var. Picture, F.C.C. in 1940. It is the product of nine generations of breed- ing and carries in its veins 21 blood-lines of insigne, 19 of Spicerianum and 19 of Boxallii. The recorded description of this flower was as follows:—A big, broad white dorsal, very heavily spotted, glistening blackish-purple. Up- per half of petals brown, lower green and brown, the green portion spotted purple-brown. Green rim round mouth of purple-brown pouch. In such a hybrid would it be fair or reasonable to expect judges to allow for “hereditary characteristics”? Picture our judges allowing for the heredi- tary characteristics of the species that go to make up our up-to-the-minute Cymbidiums! Is it not that there has been set up in the minds of judges and Orchid-lovers an ideal Cym- bidium and that breeders are aiming to raise the quality of their new hybrids to that ideal? And the lowering of standards to allow more flowers to gain awards may well hinder the great pro- gress made, ®@ Newcastle Orchid Society.—At the An- nual Meeting of the Newcastle Orchid Society held on the 27th November, 1951, the name of the Society was changed from the Newcastle Orchid Circle to the Newcastle Orchid Society. The retiring secretary reported the continued growth of the Society during the year, mem- bership nearly doubling itself. The Treasurer’s report showed that the finances of the Society are in a very healthy state. The following officers were elected for the ensuing year:—President, N. Lawrence; Treasu- rer, A. Hagan; Secretary, -G. B. Deane, 12 Waratah St., Mayfield, N.S.W. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 PAGE 13 Standards for the Odontoglossum Group ® Messrs. Charlesworth & Co. Ltd., Orchid Nurseries, Haywards Heath, Sussex, England, being well known as experts on and raisers of Odontioda, Odontoglossum, Odontonia and especially Vuylstekeara hybrids, the Honorary Editor sought their assistance with regard to the framing of judging standards for the group suitable to Australian societies. Their observa- tions and suggestions follow:— “As your main purpose is to give your mem- bers an idea of our conception of what is best in shape, size, colour, etc., in these genera, it would be as well not to try to cover too many of the multi-generics at one time, since the standards applied to each have necessarily to vary somewhat. For example, what would per- haps be a fine colour for the Odontoglossum might be only a fair colour for the Odontioda, which average a far more colourful range. Like- wise, the fine rotund shape we look for in Odon- toglossum is very seldom to be expected in Odontiodas or Vulystekearas — although the Standard of fine shaped lips in the latter two genera, from the Miltonia influence, is far higher than what one expects in Odontoglossums, and still more so than in Odontioda lips, therefore, please bear in mind that when we stress “colour” against type, it refers to the standard of that particular genus. The standards of shape are much the same for Odontoglossums and Odon- tiodas (although Odontoglossums usually have a better shaped lip and the Odont. standard for the lip is therefore higher, as regards shape). In size, Odontiodas are somewhat smaller on the average than Odontoglossums, so that again what is good size in an Odontioda may be only fair size in an Odontoglossum. Referring for a moment to these various at- tributes, as listed in your letter, may we point out that the last listed—namely, number of flowers for the ideal spray. We do not think one can say what is the ideal number for a~ spray without reference to its purpose—i.e., ex- hibition (in which ideal number varies, anyway, according to the position you wish to stage it), or ladies’? wear (in which it varies with the size of the lady), or for vase use, etc. To some extent we also feel that your second ‘attribute’ on your list, namely, ‘the most de- sirable colour or blending of colours’ is rather difficult to illustrate simply, because desirability of colour varies so much with individual taste. So far as judging for awards is concerned, new colours not seen before in any particular genus or generic group can score heavily with the Royal Horticultural Society Orchid Commit- me mR Attributes : Remarks CT. No. Name Colour (i) ODONTIODA 87 Cetoinette, A.M. R.H.S. (1950) Very good 13. Gerargia, fine var. A.M. R.H.S. (1950) Good 232 Margia, var. Lamia Exceptional 179 Pittoria, var. Rosina, A.M. R.H.S. Good (1951) (ii) ODONTOGLOSSUM 68 Adonia, var. Whatcroft Hall, A.M. R.HLS. (1950) 225. Aldonia, A.M. R.H.S. (1951) 253 Alvarloo, var. Cyclops 167 Bucephalus, var. Colossus, A.M. R.HLS. Good (1951) 181 Crispania Good 218 Crispania, var. Colossus 123° crispum, var, Yuletide 291 Manperor Very good i Opheon, var. Majestic Good 1 Robert Strauss, var. Delight Very good 242 Good Toreador Size Shape Good ame Very good Good Good ; Very good Good Exceptional Very good Exceptional The largest Odm bred to date. Good Exceptional : Good Shape good for yellows. Very good Very good | Very large for yellows. Exceptional | An example of the mag- nificent shape of our crispums which have been the progenitors of many fine hybrids. Very good | Exceptional texture, al- most as in Cypripedium. Exceptional | Texture. Very good | Texture. Exceptional | Texture. PAGE 14 tee. Of course, judging over here is carried out on a very different basis than in Australia. Our Committee does not have any ‘points’ system, such as we understand to be in use in Australia and in the United States of America. You have printed different points of view about the re- spective merits of these systems in fairly recent issues of the Australian Orchid Review. We will not attempt to express our own feelings in this mattter, but merely mention it so that you will realize that in the accompanying illustrations we sometimes may have included one for an at- tribute which under your sytem may not have scored heavily, but which has found favour over here. Several of those sent are awarded varieties, as you will see. In closing, may we advise that a number of the plants illustrated are already sold and our inclusion herewith should not be taken by your members to mean that they are necessarily avail- able for sale. In any case, that was not the pur- pose of your request. However, some are avail- able and if you have any enquiries for any of them, or your members wish to contact us direct, we will be pleased to quote if, as and when available. They should always mention the CT. No. (and the name as well if possible as a check).” AWARDS OS. of N.S.W. Reg. No. 205.—Coelogyne pandurata, C.C., Mr. W. W. Kavanagh, 26/11/1951. Reg. No. 206.—Miltonia x Woodlands var. Bellevue, H.C.C., Mr. A. R. Begg, 26/11/1951. Reg. No. 207.—Miltonia x Lycaena var. Stamperland, H.C.C., Mr. L. Giles, 4/12/1951. AWARDS VICTORIAN ORCHID CLUB Cymbidium x Dorchester var. Janette, H.C.C., Mr. W. Wright, Snr., 13/9/1951. Cypripedium x Mildred Hunter, H.C.C., Mr. W. Wright, Jnr., 13/9/1951. Cattleya x Bow Bells, H.C.C., Mr. R. B. Lee- Gow, 5/11/1951. Laeliocattleya Parma var. rubra x Cattleya Tityus, H.C.C., The Hodgins Orchid Nursery, 20/3/1951. Cypripedium x Resominster, A.M., Mr. A. E. Kirkbright, 18/6/1951. Laeliocatileya x Martinetii, A.M., Mr. W. Wright, Snr., 18/6/1951. @ Cymbidium flowers for the U.S.A.—A great improvement in the quality of Cymbi- dium flowers for exportation is demanded by the U.S.A. market. Pinch out all superfluous buds that are inverted or out of place on the raceme, as these are likely to interfere with AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 successful packing. Disbudding, carried out in- telligently ,will improve the carrying quality of the raceme. @ Prepare for Potting, etc.—May is an ex- . cellent month in which to accumulate a stock of compost and other potting materials, in- cluding pots. With a large quantity of materials at hand, potting does not become as irksome for the Orchid lover as it does when he is “scratch- ing around” for supplies as each plant calls for attention. @ American Orchid Society Bulletin, Vol. 20, No. 11, November, 1951, is replete with articles and illustrations on species and hybrids of Phalaenopsis which are sure to engage the attention of specialists of this lovely. genus. “The Field of New England Orchids,” by C. Schweinfurth, includes field observations and photographic illustrations — something for the botanist. @ Orchids of Hawaii (Na Pua Okika O Hawaii Nei), Vol. 1, No. 2, October, 1951, contains a number of interesting items, among which may be mentioned “Plant Pathology with Special Reference to Orchid Diseases and. their Control,” by H. H. Murakishi. “Dendrobiums— Hawaiian Hybrids” is another, the list of hyb- rids revealing that a number of North Queens- land Dendrobiums have been used. An interesting hybrid listed is x Colin Potter derived from D. Phalaenopsis x D. Tofftii. The subscription for one year (4 issues) is 2 (two) dollars, Ameri- can, payable by money order to The Honolulu Orchid Society Inc., 1710 Fort Street, Honolulu 13, Hawaii, U.S.A. @ The Front Cover.—Coelogyne occultata, Hook. fil (see illustration). The pseudo-bulbs are subfusiform, obliquely attached to a rhizome. Leaves are borne in pairs over each pseudo-bulb, narrowly lanceolate, 7-10 inches long. Racemes are erect, longer than the leaves, 5 or more flowered, rising from the base of the pseudo-bulb, enveloped almost to the top in wide spathaceous bracts. Flower 2 inches in diameter, milk white with the exception of some streaks and a large blotch of yelllow eye-like spot on the lip. It flowers abundantly during July (India) and is very odorous, while the flower of its near ally Coelogyne corymbosa is inodorus, It is found at 6,000 to 7,000 feet elevation in the Himalayas.—G. Ghose, Dajeel- ing, India. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 PAGE 15 The Australian Orchid Review @ As a branch of botanical science and as a section of horticultural art, Orchidology, in its several phases, is rapidly expanding throughout Australia, and, indeed, in every part of the world in general. In consequence of this rapid expansion, there is a demand for instruction and entertainment by those who are studying Orchids, either as a science or as an art. Thus, in particular, monthly and quarterly periodicals issuing from many countries are helping to meet the aspirations of Orchid lovers. Most of these journals have started in a modest way, increasing in usefulness as the Societies which they represent grow in member- ship. The combined membership of the associa- ted Societies which the Australian Orchid Re- view serves in Australia approximates seventeen hundred and fifty. To meet the desires of this continually increasing membership there is a persistent demand by those interested in the ad- vancement of Orchidology in Australia to pre- sent a bigger, better and more up-to-date Review. This can only be accomplished by using more paper and pictures, both very expensive items in the production of a periodical. The Committee of the Orchid Society of New South Wales has given the question of improv- ing the Review much serious thought, the out- come of which is that an arrangement has been arrived at with the Proprietors, Messrs. Shep- herd & Newman Pty. Ltd. to increase the size of the A.O.R. by eight pages, provide four pages of illustrations and re-design the cover to keep in step with modern printing practices. For these extra services and improvements the Pro- prietors are compelled to make an adjustment in the subscription rate, which will now be 12/6 per annum for Australian and New Zealand subscribers; the overseas rate being 12/6 sterl- ing, post free, for four quarterly parts, the first appearing during March of each year. The charge for a. single copy is 3/6. During 1951 the Orchid Society of New South Wales subsidized three enlarged parts at a considerable cost and obviously could not con- tinue to do so. This was in the nature of a bonus to subscribers, whom we trust will generously support the new set-up, both by subscriptions, reading matter and illustrations to keep the A.O.R. in the front rank of progressive Orchid periodicals. i ees @ At the Seventeenth Annual General Meet- ing of the Orchid Society of New South Wales, held on Monday, October 29, 1951, at the Y.W.C.A. Hall, the following officers were elected for the ensuing year:—President, John Bisset; Vice-Presidents, A. R. Begg, A. B. Por- ter; Honorary Secretary, J. C. Davis; Honorary Treasurer, L. A. Peaty; Honorary Registrar of Awards, N. L. Webster; Honorary Librarian, F. C. Needham; Honorary Editor, A.O.R., P. A. Gilbert; Committee, A. Birdsall, H. R. Crutch, L. Giles, A. R. Persson, F. Slattery, A. G. Smith, W. Wotherspoon, Dr. H. R. Poate. ® Cypripediums.—More time can now be devoted to cleaning dust and. scale from plants. Cypripediums, especially, can do with a thorough overhauling at this time of the year in the way of wiping leaves with clean water, removing old leaves and top-dressing those plants that are not due for repotting. Attend to Cypripediums as they go out of flower. Those that have not flowered will require just enough watering to keep the foliage fresh and crisp, but those in flower may demand a little more to pro- long the lasting quality of their flowers. @ Cymbidium Society News, Vol. V1, No. 8, November, 1951. “IV. The Development of a Cymbidium Compost,” by E. F. Vacin, is con- tinued, the paper dealing chiefly with the use of charcoal and Osmunda fibre in a Cymbidium compost. This series of outstanding papers should be read by all Cymbidium specialists. @ The Cymbidium during May.—Cymbi- dium racemes are now showing up prominently on the early flowering kinds, necessitating some attention to keeping snails and slugs from the young racemes, Precautions should be taken to prevent buds from becoming disfigured by rub- bing against the leaves. This often occurs in the bush-house where the wind is troublesome. Any bruises or scratches on young buds are more strongly marked when they expand, detracting from their show value, if it is intended to ex- hibit them. For show purposes the raceme should be cared for in the earliest stages of growth right to the time of flowering so that the flowers can be shown in a perfect state, ~ PAGE 16 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 The District Exhibits (O.S. of N.S.W.) Jubilee Orchid Festival, 1951 DOUGLAS AGNEW, Killara, N.S.W. @ The following impressions and criticisms are my own personal views and do not include those of my fellow judges, and here I would like to state that our decisions were unanimous in every respect. I believe the judging cards handed to us by the Hon. Registrar of Awards were to be used for the purpose of determining our opinions. However, our procedure did not work out that way. We carefully considered the exhibits, made up our minds, recorded the placings and, as we were obliging individuals, we filled in the cards so as to tally with our placings. I was delighted with The Western Suburbs Orchid Society exhibit, which we placed First, and I am sure it pleased everyone who saw it. The interest which it drew with its foreground was very pleasing, some parts were inspired, and all of the detail generally was very effective. This exhibit was very definitely the best pre- sentation and, naturally, it gives considerable scope for discussion and advice. The exhibitors drew their inspiration from a natural pool in a woodland dell, and such a scene is quite idyl- lic, and it was very well carried out. There was a minor fault in the path to the pool, which commenced and also terminated with the scene. Paths in Nature are formed by man or beast and obviously this path should have entered the scene by one side and disappeared out of the scene through the opposite undergrowth. It would have been interesting to have utilized the two central gum trees, placing them well off balance, one on each side of the disappear-. ing path. Man geometrically centres motifs and balances specimens, whereas Nature is the result of unequal and unbalanced forces, con- sequently designers require to be very conscious of these conditions to hope to portray a scene from Nature. The screening of the balcony posts was ex- cellent, but the background screening was ragged and lacked appeal. The labelling of plants was a definite advance, but an improve- ment would have been the use of real ‘gum? (Eucalyptus) leaves instead of the too brightly coloured imitation leaves which were used. The use of low frontal interesting foreground well illuminated was carefully thought out, and the delightful pool formations were very natural, they really lived the part, and the plac- ing of the butterflies and moths was very pleasing. I noticed. particularly the bold use of a damaged butterfly which was ably supported by the adjacent equally damaged spray of dying flowers. The artists’ appreciation of their materials could not have been of a higher order, which they applied right up to the stallboards, so creating interest to the spectators right under their noses. I cannot speak too highly of the effect ob- tained, the faults mentioned were slight, not glaring, as each section blended very smoothly and, to me, it set a standard upon which I com- pared the less inspiring exhibits (see illustrations 1 and 2). The Eastwood and District Orchid Circle exhibit was placed 2nd and, frankly, I was dis- appointed that these exhibitors did not adhere to the theme of their past successes. They had the experience and it is conceivable they might have outmatched this year’s winner. My fellow judges and myself placed this exhibit 3rd, but the excellence of their flowers gave them suf- ficient points to gain a lead into second place. Here, I should explain, that the judging of the District Exhibits was in two divisions, the Orchid Genera were judged by a panel of Judges of the Orchid Society of N.S.W., and the whole of the presentations were judged for display and arrangement by Miss Ellis Nosworthy, Mrs. Leo Lister and myself, and a mean average was calculated from the combined figures. I felt the theme was sophisticated and the cottage was so unreal that even its chimney tottered. Perhaps old world cottages bedecked with Hollyocks and Lavender walks are in my blood to the extent that I cannot conceive the substitution of Orchids and Crotons in good taste. However, the arrangement of the flowers was commanding and very interesting and their quality attracted much attention. One of my fellow judges considered the “Slippers” border- ing the pathway a fairy tale fantasy, but these lovely blooms flanked by an over-bright Terra Nerte immitation grass did not impress me that way. I also felt this exhibit suffered badly from the absence of a side screen which would have obliterated the hard plaster wall of the Town Hall. The use of two different widths of tree trunks as camouflage to the balcony pillars was not the best, it added to the unreal effect, also A USTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 PAGE 17 (3) The Eastwood and District Orchid Circle PAGE 18 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 (6) The Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Orchid Society AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 PAGE 19 BRASSOLAELIOCATTLEYA X NORMANS BAY var. WONDABAH H.C.C., O.S. of N.S.W., 1951. Owner: L. Giles. Reg No 188 _— mm aoe pail (4) The Eastwood and District Orchid Circle (2) The Western Suburbs Orchid Society AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 PAGE 20 (7) The Mosman Home Gardeners’ Association (8) The Earlwood District Orchid Society AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 the labels in parts appeared to dominate the flowers and the large name of the exhibitors smacked of a railway station sign. Notwithstanding the foregoing, there was a considerable amount of work put in by the . exhibitors in building the front of the cottage, form and frame, an illuminated specimen in the show window, building a picket fence, con- structing a gravel path and a porch, building a pool and installing its pumping mechanism, run- ning a fountain amidst some of the highest quality Orchids in the whole show and all of this was erected in a very short time. This ambitious and highly imaginative display will probably provide much food for thought (see illustrations 3 and 4). _ The Sydney Orchid Club exhibit won Third place and it could have won the second place. I thought the fluorescent lighting was too hard, as it made the blooms appear flat and shadow- less. The screens to the sides and rear of the display should have been about two feet higher to more effectively cut out the architrave and freize of the Town Hall doorway, and the higher screen would have enabled the doorway used as a feature, to have been correctly pro- portioned. The theme was logical, well balanced, simple and pleasing, but for the use of imita- tion and somewhat crude materials. This was a great pity when we have at our disposal a wealth of natural materials, light to handle and easily obtainable in our forests surrounding Sydney. I feel sure that the cost of the materials used in this exhibit would have been double the cost of natural bush materials (see illustra- tion 5). ; The Hornsby Kuring-gai Orchid Society ex- hibit was placed Fourth. I considered it as a straight arrangement only and, accordingly, it went down in my appreciation in comparison with the scenic presentations. It was formal in every way and very similar to the general arrangement of the competitive benches. I think that this exhibit would have been better if only half of the plants had been used. Many of those used were to be seen and described on the com- petitive benches and therefore it was a waste of space to double them up. ‘The name of the Society was massive and over-bearing, the name card of the First Prize Exhibit was only ap- proximately 6 inches x 4 inches (sce illustration 6). The Mosman Home Gardeners’ Association exhibit, placed Fifth, was heavily handicapped by a violent purple foreground, my fellow judges objected to it strongly and I must say it mixed the effect, causing a discord, whereas PAGE 21 a foreground must blend in harmoniously. The rear and side screen of young Lonardy poplars was an advance, but the effect would have been greatly improved if more plants had been used in making the screen denser. No attempt was made to camouflage the balcony pillars which, together with other obtruding Town Tall archi- tecture, must be considered as hazards and should be handled accordingly. There was con- siderable grace displayed in the placing of the flowers, the exhibitors achieving a pleasant effect peculiar to this style and, considering the scant amount of material used as embellishment, the effort was very good (see illustration 7). The Earlwood District Orchid Society exhibit placed Sixth, was a simple staging of four or five horizontal rows of Cymbidiums, a trellis fence enclosure and a central rear feature of an ornamental gate. This was the best site in the Town Hall and little use was made of it. To me, it just dripped with possibilities (see illustration 8). This competition, which was so ably initiated by Mr. Alan Birdsall,’ has come to stay as the main attraction to our Annual Orchid Festival, and the keenness created has brought forth re- sults for which all concerned are to be con- gratulated in their efforts to win the Birdsall Shield. @ A Cymbidium Hint for May.—This month calls for moderate watering only, which is best carried out in the morning. Plants that have racemes advanced in development may de- mand closer attention with regard to watering, but those just giving indications that they are going to flower can be attended to at longer intervals, as these do not use up the same quan- tity of water, damp compost being more stimu- lating than wet compost during the cold months of the year. ® IT’S WAR! The firm.of Black & Flory Ltd., Orchid growers, announce that in view of “the uncertain feelings which have devloped between Russia and the Western Powers,” they have de- cided to rename their (Cattleya) ‘Marshal Stalin” Orchid “General George S. Patton.”— London Daily Mirror, 9/9/1951. @ Sarcochilus.—In the Proceedings of the Linnean Society of New South Wales, Vol. LXXVI, Parts 3-4, 1951, the Rev. H. M. R. Rupp reviews the Australian species of the genus Sarcochilus. Sixteen valid species of the genus are recognized, including one, S. ¢ricalliatus, newly admitted to specific rank. PAGE 22 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 Robert David Fitzgerald Rev. H. M. R. RUPP, Willoughby, N.S.W. @ Every student and collector of Australian Orchids is aware of the existence of Fitzgerald’s monumental work* on the subject of these plants, although the number of those who are fortunate enough to possess a copy is compara- tively small. But still smaller is the number of those who know anything about the man him- self. This brief memoir, therefore, may prove acceptable to readers of the “Review.” Robert David Fitzgerald was, as his name in- dicates, of Irish descent. His father was a pro- minent banker of Tralee, where the future Orchidologist was born in 1830. Even as a child he was a lover of what we rather inaptly call “natural history.” Ornithology was his first hobby, and he became quite an authority on the birds of his native land. In 1846 the family emi- grated to Australia and settled in Balmain, then highly favoured as a residential suburb of Syd- ney. Soon after their arrival, Robert obtained a post in the Government Lands Department. He remained there for 31 years, and in 1873 was appointed Deputy Surveyor-General. He was held in the highest esteem, both by his de- partmental chiefs and by all who worked under him. His official duties involved a great deal of travelling throughout the State, and this gave him many opportunities of continuing his study of natural history. He was a many-sided man, an expert in his particular calling, an accomp- lished artist and a naturalist of great distinction. To his determined efforts we owe the reservation of some of the grandest scenic resorts of the State, especially on the Blue Mountains and the far North Coast. In 1876 he was sent to Lord Howe Island to report on the living conditions of its inhabitants and this visit resulted in im- portant botanical discoveries. Among his intim- ate friends was the greatest of all Australian botanists since Robert Brown—Baron von Muel- ler, who named one of Fitzgerald’s most notable Lord Howe discoveries after him; Dracophyllum Fitzgeraldii. It was the Baron, too, who named the chaming Ravine Orchid, discovered by his friend in the Bellinger River gorges, Sarcochilus Fitzgeraldii. Fitzgerald was a great admirer of Darwin and corresponded with him. Perhaps I need hardly add that the great work, ‘Australian Orchids,” is dedicated to Darwin’s memory. Fitzgerald’s interest in Australian Orchids began, one might say, accidentally. The story is too long to tell here, but may be found in Mrs. P. R. Messmer’s excellent biography of Fitzgerald in The Vic- torian Naturalist, Vol. XLVIII (1932), p. 235. Before long he had determined to figure, in their natural colours and with complete floral details, every known Orchid of his adopted land. Whether the Governments of to-day would en- courage their senior civil servants in an ambition of this kind, I leave it to my readers to say. But the New South Wales Government of those days, to its honour, did encourage Fitzgerald, and actually published his ‘Australian Orchids” in parts over a number of years. Much of the material for this great work was collected by the author himself; but many speci- mens were sent to him by friends and corres- pondents. In 1884 the passing the Crown Lands Act in- volved radical and far-reaching changes in the Lands Department. Amongst other things, the post of Deputy Surveyor-General was abolished; and in 1887 Fitzgerald retired from the service. But the publication of ‘‘Australian Orchids,” begun as far back as 1875, was now enthusiast- ically proceeded with, and the author’s time was very fully occupied. Only those who haye studied the drawings in this magnificent work can realise what it involved of labour and patience. Fitzgerald had a special microscove made, combined with a forceps, which held the object to be drawn so that one eye could con- centrate on it and one on the drawing. He hated dried specimens. Perhaps this was to be expected in an artist; but it is a pity the bot- anist in him did not prevail over the artist; for, unfortunately, only a very few types of his species—rescued from destruction by his friend Harry Deane—are preserved. He was not destined to complete the great work, The first volume, of seven parts, was pub- lihed and nearly five parts. were ready for the second when Fitzgerald died on August 12, 1892. Baron von Mueller wrote to the Rev. Dr. Woolls: “It is . . . an irreparable loss, not only to our favourite science but to ourselves person- ally, who have learned to appreciate his sterling character in life . . . So long as the lovely Orchids of this part of the world embellish with singular and varied beauty the natural features of Australia, so long will the memory of our leading Orchidologist be held dear in the study of God’s works.” Mrs. Messmer, in the brief biography referred to above, gives a delighful description of Fitz- AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 gerald’s home at Hunters Hill, with its two acres of garden and its “unique and remarkable fernery which he built entirely, rock by rock, with his own hands.” Honours came to him from many quarters. He was elected a Fellow of the Linnean Society (London); and among other awards in recog- nition of his achievements as Orchidologist and artist were:— 1871, Bronze Medal of the Agricultural Society of N.S.W. 1878, Gold Medal of the Exhibition Inter- nationale, Paris. 1879, Bronze Medal of the Sydney Inter- national Exhibition. 1880, Silver Medal. of the Melbourne In- ternational Exhibition, 1883, Amsterdam Medal D’Or. 1886, Bronze Medal of the Colonial and Indian Exhibition, London. _ Fitzgerald left a number of unpublished draw- ings which were intended for inclusion in his magnum opus. The Government of the day agreed to the suggestion that Messrs. H. Deane and A. J. Stopps (the latter having been Fitz- gerald’s lithographer) should prepare these for Publication; and the plates in Vol. II, Part V, Were produced under this arrangement; but there publication ended. Fortunately, the authorities of the Mitchell Library in Sydney were able some years ago to secure most of the remaining unpublished plates, together with some unfinished drawings. The late Dr. R. S. Rogers was asked to catalogue these, and this he did, with annotations on every species rep- resented, *This work is available for reference purposes only, in the Library of the Orchid Society of New South Wales ® The Newcastle Orchid Society. — The Newcastle Orchid Society staged its Annual Orchid Exhibition in the City Hall on the 13th, 14th and 15th September, 1951. The Exhibi- tion was officially opened by the Lord Mayor of Newcastle, Alderman Purdue, at 3 p.m. on Thursday, the 13th September. Considering the lateness of the flowering season in the Newcastle district, the quantity and quality of the blooms exhibited compared favourably with previous years. The excellent flood lighting showed the blooms on display up to perfection. A feature of this year’s show was that the Major trophies were all won by novice exhibi- tors showing Orchids for the first time. Mr. W. Hollinshead’s Cymbidium x Swallow var. Mag- PAGE 23 nolia was acclaimed by the judges as one of the best flowers they had seen of that variety. It gained Champion Orchid of the Show, Champion Cyym- bidium and the Society Champion for 1951. The Reserve Championship was won by Mrs. Bate- man with Cymbidium x Cassandra var. Exqui- site. Cymbidium x Ceres var F. J. Hanbury, owned by Mr. G. B. Deane, winning for him the best colour in the show and best colour ex- hibited by a novice, The’ Cattleya and Cypripedium sections surpassed any of those shown in previous shows held in this district. From thirteen en- tries in the Cypripedium section the judges awarded Mr. G. Rundle’s flower of Cypripedium x Lady Mona first, and Mrs. Bateman’s flower of Cypripedium x Chardmore second. In the Cattleya Section, Mr. G. Rundle gained both first and second awards. Two well grown and flowered plants of Den- drobium nobile exhibited by Mr. A. Sinclair gained both first and second awards in the Den- — drobium section. Mr. J. Genders, with a flower of Phalaenopsis Schilleriana, won the section for the best Orchid any other variety. Keen competition was shown in the native Orchid section, Mr. A. Hagon’s plant of Den- drobium speciosum being awarded first prize, and Mr. E. Bagnell’s plant of Dendrobium Kingianum. second prize. In the open section for the competitive dis- plays Mr. G. Rundle was awarded first and second prizes. The winning display was attrac- tively arranged about a large crow’s-nest fern and contained many genera of Orchids. The novice section’s display of Cymbidiums only was won by Mr. G. B. Deane, Mrs. Bateman gaining second award. Both these displays con- tained some very fine Cymbidiums. Mr. Roy Deane, of “Greenacres,” Valley Heights, staged a very attractive trade display, the arrangement and blending of colours being highly commended by all who saw it. Some very fine Cymbidiums were featured, x Judge Mar- kell var. Jean having two pretty spikes, a very fine x Louis Sander of buff colour, a nice x Jungfrau with four spikes, an attractive x Joy- ance No. 9; red brown, and a small but highly coloured x Euterpe. 5 Mr. J. Beckley, a local fish fancier, staged a large display tank of tropical fish, this display being a great attraction to both young and old. The remaining trade display was an advertising medium for Inta Flora, which was attractively | arranged to explain the function of this organi- zation. . Continued on page 25 PAGE 24 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 Diseases and Pests of Orchids C. G. WILLIAMS, Brisbane, Qld. @ Diseases and pests of Orchid plants can be very confusing to the beginner if he is not armed with the requisite knowledge for the application of corrective treatments. Although a multitude of proprietary spray, dust and bait compounds are available for combating horti- cultural diseases and pests, these remedies and preventatives need to be understood thoroughly before they are applied to Orchid plants. Diseases and pests fall under different categories and each category will require a distinct con- trol measure. For instance, a plant infected with a fungus disease will require an entirely dif- ferent spray or dust compound to that of the same plant affected by scale insects or red spider. Under the term Disease, I will include para- sitic fungi, which are mostly characterised by black or brown patches in the leaves or stems of the plant. Disorders of these types gain entry into the plant by medium of spores which, in the presence of moisture on the leaf, stem or bulb, take root into the plant tissue. The method of combating these spores is by the ap- plication of a neutralized copper base spray or dust such as Bordeaux mixture and ‘‘Cuprox,” or lime-sulphur. With fungus diseases the treatment is pre- vention and, in this respect, the spray or dust must be applied so as to form a protective film or cover over the whole surface of the plant. Under properly applied fungicidal treatment any fungus spores which fall on the plant will, when they germinate, perish, as they attempt to penetrate the neutralized copper film or lime- sulphur combination. To spray or dust the plant after the infection appears is too late, but pro- vided the disease is not very extensive, the in- fected portions may be cut out of the plant, and this should be followed by an immediate spray application to the remainder. Bacterial Infection: Disease by the medium of bacteria may arise through root infection due frequently through sour and over-watered cemposts. Obviously, the remedy here is not by way of chemical sprays, etc. Correct and well- drained compost is frequently the answer to bacterial disorders. Virus Disease: This disease is commonly found in Cymbidiums. If the leaves of your Cymbi- diums take on a pronounced. translucent yellow or, in some instances, a black streak effect, and this symptom persists progressively in the new leaf growth, then you may consider your plant has a virus disease. I am not aware of any cure for virus infection and would recommend im- mediate total destruction by burning of the whole plant and a boiling water sterilization of the pot in which it grew. As a precaution against the spread of the virus to healthy plants I would recommend frequent spray applications of nicotine sulphate of Folidol (E605). The Scale Insect Pest: Various forms of scale insects thrive on Orchid plants. Most growers will readily recognize this type of pest. If left uncontrolled the scale insects will multiply very rapidly and they will mar the appearance of the plant and weaken its constitution. The cure for scale is to spray as recommended on the package with:—(1) Oil sprays such as Volck, White Oil or Gamaxane; or (2) Folidol (E605); or (3) Pestoxol. A note of warning should be struck here: Always use oil sprays late in the afternoon or on dull days, also oil-sprayed plants should be kept in the shade for about one (1) week in order to prevent sunburn. This precaution also applies to lime-sulphur sprays. Root Eating Insects: Cut worms, snails, etc., may be effectively dealt with by the use of poison baits which contain Paris Green or Arsenate of Lead. These baits should be placed in heaps on the bench adjacent to the plants or on a small piece of paper on top of the compost. These poisons are mostly known as slug or snail baits. They are very poisonous, consequently they should be kept out of the reach of small children or domestic animals. Thrips and Red Spider: The extensive damage done by thrips and red spider will be recognized by the brown or red-brown patches over the leaves of the plant. The cure here is: (1) nico- tine sulphate spray or dust; or (2) flowers of sulphur dust; or (3) Gamaxane spray; or (4) lime-sulphur spray. Leaf-Chewing Insects and Ants: For pests of these types, D.D.T. is the best remedy. All benches and stands should be sprayed with a 1 per cent. solution, or ‘““Rucide” as recommended,_ at least once each week when these pests are prevalent. Where the plant requires this treat- ment it should be turned upside down or on its side, during the spraying operation and allowed to drain off thoroughly in order to prevent ex- cess D.D.T. entering into the compost. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 Reeaconelusion, I would like to draw your at- rer n to the question of host plants which act isease and pest carriers. For instance, if your Orchids are grown in a bush-house or in the Open adjacent to ferns, citrus trees, etc., which are heavily affected with scale, then, it can be expected that the infection will easily transfer to your plants. Such host plants should be treated for their complaint or removed from the Vicinity, (Continued from page 23) The Show was a great success and reflects much credit on the organizers and members of the Society. The judges were Messrs. E. Giles and W. Worth, appointed by the Orchid Society of N.S.W., and the judging was according to that Society’s standards. Other prize winners were:— ‘ Open Section: Best 6 Cymbidiums, G. Rundle ee Best 3 Cymbidiums, G. Rundle 1st; N. parce 2nd; Best 3 Cymbidiums for Colour, pens 1st; W. Watkins 2nd; Best 2 Cym- idiums, J. Genders 1st; W. Hollinshead 2nd. Novice Section: Best 2 Cymbidiums, N. Law- tence Ist, W. Watkins 2nd; Best 1 Cymbidium, Mrs. Bateman Ist, N. Lawrencé 2nd. —Reported by W. M. Hollinshead. * Townsville Orchid Society.—The Presi- Tp Report presented to the Fourth Annual see of the Townsville Orchid Society, Ctober 29, 1951, reveals the remarkable pro- Bers. made by that. body since its inaugural 1 eeting and is indicative of the growing popu- arity in North Queensland of Orchid culture, ©nce considered a rich man’s preserve. Formed just about four years ago by a few ee enthusiasts, the Society now has a mem- i tship of sixty growers with substantial collec- 1ons of Orchids from all corners of the world. So The financial statement disclosed that the 4 Ciety is in a very sound financial position and see the year imported plants from overseas oe the benefit of its members to the extent of ; 8. Donations to Legacy and the Y.M.C.A. Gee, oating £36 were also made from the - gees s funds, whilst additions of valuable chnical volumes were made to the Library. The election of officers for 1951/52 resulted as follows:— yen atron Dr. J. Breinl; President, R. P. Kirke; 1ce-Presidents, §. Short, J. S. Berge, C. Free- man, Mrs. E. Nott, A. Wardell; Honorary | Mee ary Treasurer, A. C. Nielsen; Committee, ivi E. Gausden, Miss G. Butler, Mrs. E. Black, aS E. C. Maloney, W. G. Butler, P. H. War- 3 Honorary Technical Adviser, C. Freeman. PAGE 25 @ Method to soften herbarium material, par- ticularly flowers, but if necessary also leaves and bulbs. For this purpose I never use hot water, but non-warmed ammonia liquida, and that with the best success. In very many instances the flowers by this method perfectly regain their natural shape, which is of great importance for a good description, and the making of sketches. The time necessary depends on the material: some flowers are sufficiently softened within an hour, others require several hours. I, therefore, place the material a day before it is required in a glass tube filled with the said liquid, or better still in small glass bottles with ground stopper, where it, if the bottles are well closed, may re- main for several days, or even weeks, without deterioration. Such softened flowers may afterwards be placed in alcohol for preservation. Nevertheless the results are not always equally good. Very ten- der flowers, as for instance, the one-day-orchids, frequently do not regain their form, also too sctrongly pressed flowers. Material which is too old, badly dried or badly kept, also material which has for a long time been exposed to a humid tropical climate, not rarely becomes tog soft, in which case, however, cautious hardening in strong alcohol may well result in some im- provement. Anyhow the results are nearly al- ways better and never worse than if the material +s boiled in water. I have to thank Prof. Dr. E. Pfitzer for this method, which does not seem to be generally known. It may also be used: for, other families. From J. J. Smith’s “Orchidaceae” in “Flora of Borneo.” @ Be careful to observe that the period in- cluding the last ten days of March and through- out April constitutes one of falling and rising temperatures, warmth and humidity, dryness and coldness in the air, which may puzzle the beginner how to act. It is perfectly safe to dis- continue watering while a cold change is passing by. @ American Orchid Society Bulletin, Vol. 20, No. 9, September, 1951, includes an article concluded in the October issue—on “Colour Inheritance in Orchids,” by K. J. Fenton. This should be of great interest to those who intend trying hybridization. There are other useful papers in this number and. two pages of illustra- tions of Australian Orchids that have gained awards, Available in the O.S. of N.S.W. library. PAGE 26 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 The Orchid Club of South Australia Annual Exhibition M. HILL, Gawler East, 8.A. @ The annual exhibition of the Orchid Club of South Australia was held in the Liberal Club Hall, North Terrace, Adelaide, from Septem- ber 24th to 26th, 1951, inclusive. The exhibition was later this year owing to the hall being required for the Commonwealth Referendum. This, however, did not affect the display, although Cypripediums were not so much in evidence as is usually the case, but the extra number of Cymbidiums in flower more than compensated for the loss of blooms in that genus. The exhibition was opened by the Lady Mayoress, Mrs. Arthur Rymill, who was intro- duced by the Premier, the Hon. T. Playford. At the conclusion of the opening ceremony, the President, Mr. L. H. B. Hudd, expressed the thanks of the Club members to Mrs. Rymill for her kindness in coming along and a presenta- tion bouquet of Cymbidiums tied with pink satin ribbon and tulle bows was then handed to her. The exhibition, which is non-competitive, was very gracefully arranged in a series of in- dividual designs, each member arranging his or her plants in the manner which was considered to display the flowers to their best advantage. Foliage plants and ferns were kindly loaned by the Botanical Gardens and these were used as a background and among the Orchids them- selves. Some very artistic and creditable displays were to be seen and admired. The quality of the plants in the exhibition was much improved on the previous five exhibitions and members are to be congratulated on the progress they are making in the cultivation of these beautiful and interesting Orchids. The largest and most comprehensive display was that arranged by Mr. F. H. De Rose. His exhibit, which occupied one side of the hall, contained about 200 plants of many genera. Although Cymbidiums were in the greater number, there were good representatives also of Angraecums, Cottleyas and their allied genera, Cypripediums, Lycastes, and Dendrobiums. Many of the Cymbidiums in this collection which had not previously been seen in flower in South Australia were greatly admired and commented upon by the growers who saw them. Some of the best varieties noted were x Imbros, x Ispahan, x Armynell x Goosander, x Swallow var. Patricia, x Swallow var. Dawnella, x Cam- bria, a beautiful green with cream lip spotted red and a very desirable addition to the green flowering varieties, x Achilla and x Lord Dul- verton. Angraecum sesquipedale, Cypripedium x Forres and Cypripedium x Golden Emblem were also outstanding. The centre-piece of the hall was a massive display by Mr. A. D. Mc- Allan, of large plants with wealth of flowers arranged among ferns, Crotons and. palms. Nice blooms were seen of Cymbidium x Janette, C. x Priam var. Ada Meech, C. x Nadina, C. x Swallow var. Magnolia, C. x Eagle var. Kulgoda and C. x Cassandra, Cypripedium Lady Dillon x Eurybiades var. The King, Cyp. x Rishworth, Cyp. x Framewood, Cyp. x Pyramus and Cyp. x Memoria F. M. Ogilvie, and also Angraecum eburneum. In front of the stage there was a display of blooms from the collections of the Hon. T. Playford and Mrs. Playford, Snr. Shown against a background of splendid palms and foliage plants, it made a very fine and arresting exhibit. The plants were well grown with dark green foliage giving ample evidence of the skill of the growers and the splendid growing condi- tions to be found in our Adelaide hills. Plants of note were Cymbidium x Dorchester, Cym. Emery, Cym. x Bramling, Cym. x Erica Sander, Cym. x Delphine, Cym. x Ruanda, Cym. x Joy Sander and Cym. x Pauwelsii. Dr. M. E. Chinner again had a very nice ex- hibit of quality plants, well grown and nicely flowered, his Angraecum Veitchii again being well to the front with its many-flowered sprays and unusual perfume. Two very fine Cattleyas were also seen and admired, Cymbidium x Prin- cess Elizabeth var. Maisie, Cym. x Elfin, Cym. x Ceres F. J. Hanbury and Cym. x Albania were very good. Dr. T. L. McLarty also brought along some very nice plants, among them being Cymbidium x Judge Markell, Cym. x Amberley, Cym. % Gossoon and Cym. x Magnificent, while Zygo- _petalum intermedium also attracted attention. Mr. C. C. Collas had on display a very mixed and varied collection of Cymbidiums. Some were very fine show varieties others were of the florist type only, but making in all a very pleasing exhibit of colour, ranging from the white through all shades to the very dark and unusual colouring of Cym. x Peri var. nigre- scence. Nice varieties noted were Cym. x Dor- chester, Cym. x Eagle var. Kulgoda, Cym. x Cassandra, Cym. x Gossoon, Cym. x Louis San- AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 der and Cym. x Princess Elizabeth var. Maisie. A display of cut flowers and growing plants was staged by Mr. H. J. R. Overall and some very nice flowers were to be seen for colour and ane in, this display, notably Cym. x Princess izabeth, Cym. x Sussex, Cym. x Louis Sander var. Rose and Cym. x Dorchester var Chelsea. Mrs. J. L. Mortlock was again an exhibitor with her large, well-grown plant of Vanda tri- color, a very nice plant each of Phalaenopsis x Mary Manda and Ph. x Grande Conde, and one each of Dendrobium nobile, D. Jamesianum and D. falcorostrum. 1 splendid plant of Phaius Wallichii was dis- Played by Mr. J. M. Hack, also Dendrobium Teena, D. Kingianum, D. Jamesianum and - infundibulum. Other members who exhibited plants were:— PAGE, 27 Mrs. P. Baack, Mrs. J. T. Turner, Mr. E. Ford, Mr. N. Christoph, Mr. R. H. Smith and Mr. H. Goodenough. The exhibition was a great success and the Committee is very pleased with the display and grateful for the splendid support given by mem- bers and the public generally. It is with regret, however, that I end this report with a note in regard to the person who sank so low as to in- dulge in the petty pilferage of back-bulbs stolen from’ two of the very fine Cymbidium plants ex- hibited at the Exhibition, That thieving should occur is deplorable, but the person who com- mitted such an act may be sure that he will not be able to exhibit either of those plants under its correct name as all owners of both varieties are well known and tabulated, the plants being the only ones of their varieties so far introduced. More About Orchid Composts T. H. JAMES, Hazelbrook, N.S.W. e ; : At the conclusion of my notes in the December, 1950, issue of the Australian Orchid | fare) said that the subject was too big to be ce with in one article and, after reviewing notes and listening to the comments of mane of my friends, I find that some aspects “quire qualification and enlargement. It may a claimed that a discussion on soil fertility is t of order in a journal devoted to the culti- vation of Orchids, but I believe that the fer- Ulity of soil (compost) for Orchids is bound up with the fertility of soil generally and so I J0pe that my remarks may be conceded as not appropriate. an his subject is probably new to many readers as ae such will, in some quarters, get the re- €ption usually accorded new ideas, viz., in- ifference or even hostility. In fact, a friend of Mine to whom I expounded my views merely Paunted and said, ‘Is that another of your new angled ideas?” Pe ticbos of new ideas, it must be ten years Gui first urged the use of tan-bark for one ids, but for years the matter was treated it 3 joke. Then a few venturesome souls tried aa fens found, to their astonishment, that not see i their plants not die, but they actually ae ed. Now it is used universally. aan as a youth, I was fortunate to Se ‘e interest of a man who taught me much, aie ge lesson I cherish most is this: He told that throughout life I would find myself confronted with many problems and be puzzled by prevailing ideas and’ practices. Before con- sulting others I should first endeavour to find a solution myself. My early decisions might be wrong, but the fact that I had made an inde- pendent decision would be an achievement and, as the years passed by, decisions would be more accurate. Above all, he stressed, always apply logic and look for causes, because such must precede effects. Tt was that teaching which prompted me, when I found that there was something wrong with my garden and orthodox methods failed to produce a solution, to endeavour to ascertain the cause; hence my investigation and notes in . the December issue of the A.O.R. Let us first of all apply some logic to this matter. There are, no doubt, many who, through ~ fortunate circumstances such as a naturally fer- tile soil or ready access to organic manure, are able to maintain a high standard of culture. There is, however, abundant evidence from re- ports in journals, in the press, radio broadcasts and general observation that there is an alarm- ing increase in soil infertility, insect pests and diseases of both plant and stock, also smaller cropping. The chemist is busy developing new chemicals to combat those diseases and pests. That seems to me illogical; it is treating the effects and not the causes. For a time the disease est is checked, but only for a time. There eee 1 law which decrees that life must is a natura PAGE 28 adapt itself to changing conditions or perish. Has any disease or pest, either animal or plant, ever been eradicated? No. The survivors have built up a more virile and resistant strain, namely, flies and mosquitoes becoming immune to D.D.T. Further, these chemicals upset the balance of Nature and for that Nature always exacts payment. For instance, two years ago, in a moment of weakness, I sprayed my apple trees with D.D.T. against the Codling Moth. It was very successful, but the spray also killed the parasitic wasp which lives on woolly aphis and within a few months my trees became in- fested with the aphis and it has taken me two years to clean them up. Now take a look at a natural forest. Over untold centuries vegetation has evolved a struc- ture which is dependent on the soil constituents of its habitat and, by natural selection, has be- come resistant to diseases and pests which are always present, but can only successfully attack the weak and ailing. If only one trace element could be removed from the soil of that par- ticular forest the vegetation would immediately suffer and be vulnerable to disease and insect attack as also would the animal life which feeds directly and indirectly on that vegetation. Those natural soil constituents which are used up in plant growth are constantly being replaced as described in the December, 1950, A.O.R., but the methods of cultivation most generally used make no provision for the re- placement of all those elements, The majority of cultivators take the easy way with chemical fertilizer, which contains three elements only, viz., nitrogen, potash and phosphoric acid. It is here that my previous remarks need qualification. Soils vary considerably in dif- ferent countries and localities. Plant and animal life which is peculiar to a particular locality has developed a make-up related to the soil con- stituents of that locality and will not flourish where one or more of those constituents, be it even one trace element, are missing. Hence the necessity to introduce the missing elements in the soil and this is done in the first place by means of chemicals. Plant and animal life will then respond and, provided as much as possible of the plant tissues and animal waste be re- turned to the soil, very few, if any, further applications of chemicals would be necessary. It is the continued use of chemicals which is so destructive. Again, land which has been starved will also require various chemical elements to restore its fertility, but when that object has been achieved all additions should be mainly organic. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 There is abundant evidence, for those who wish to seek it, of the astonishing results of organic farming and gardening, viz., the build- ing up of more luxuriant vegetation which, along with animal life, is healthy and resistant to disease. It is logical to assume that animal life will suffer if the herbage on which it is de- pendent is lacking some vital element. Its resis- tance is lowered, it becomes increasingly liable to disease and its nutritional value is lessened vide example mentioned in my December, 1951, Notes. With Orchids, the factors mentioned do not apply in quite the same way. Firstly, the foliage is not used for animal food, so the nutritional factor does not operate. Secondly, their life is progressive, that is, new growth develops each year from the base of the previous year’s growth and there is no permanent root stock. In due course the old bulbs with their leaves and roots perish and sheer lack of space in the ,pot or basket will compel repotting. They therefore have to be provided periodically with new compost. One of the components in the compost is generally leaf-mould. In this connection, let us return again to natural conditions. The natural forests and grasslands carry on century after century without. cultivation, as the term is understood, and without the addition of chemi- cal fertilizers. The decomposition of dead mat- ter is carried on at the surface by soil micro- organisms which, in order to perform their particular tasks, must exist on or just beneath the surface of the soil. Their task is to convert decaying organic matter into materials suitable for plant food. The fertile part of. virgin soil is, therefore, the top three or four inches. Any- thing below that would be useless for Orchid compost. I realize the difficulty that confronts growers in obtaining top soil only from com- mercial suppliers. The remedy is either to collect it oneself or make one’s own compost. An alter- native is to use Orgarno in place of leaf-mould, as that material is entirely organic and mainly humus containing most of the elements, major and minor, necessary for rich plant life. Further to the use of chemical fertilizers, and the continued use of such destroys a large per- centage of the bacteria in the soil which ultim- ately becomes sterile, where repotting is done, say, every other year, the effect may (I use the word ‘‘may’ because I have no evidence in this regard) not have any injurious effect, but if repotting is done at longer intervals the con- stitution of the plants might be seriously affec- ted, as happens in general farming and gardening ‘comes sterile or largely so. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 under chemical treatment and the compost be- This subject is, I Consider, important and I would suggest that growers who use chemicals report the effect on their plants for general information. In conclusion, I wish it to be understood that this is not a scientific treatise, but notes on observation and information gleaned from much inquiry, plus a limited amount of personal re- search. _ As to Orgarno, I have used it as a top-dress- Ing on my Caféleyas in place of Sphagnum Moss. One which had an early start already has bulbs 3 inches longer than their parents and growth 1s not yet complete. PAGE 29 @ A Cultural Note for May.—This month ‘demands some attention with regard to repairs and painting, as the time devoted to the general care of Orchids is greatly reduced. Most Den- drobiums and Cattleyas will require just enough water at the roots to keep the pseudo-bulbs plump. They may claim this watchfulness once a week, or more frequently, according to the local conditions of the weather, the nature of the structure in which they are housed, or the texture of the compost in which they grow. Sometimes damping down during the morning may be all that they require, or an odd plant here and there may need dipping only. The Vegetative Propagation of Orchids J. GORDON SMITH, Brisbane, Ql. The propagation of Orchids varies according to the type, for example Cypripediums which lave no pseudo-bulbs can be increased by divi- sion only. Cattleyas and Cymbidiums which have Pseudo-bulbs can be increased by divisions and by forcing the dormant eyes in the back-bulbs into 8towth. Dendrobiums of course offer the best Opportunities as they have the added advantage of aerial growths. ~ =o The so-called “water cultlure” seems to hold Pride of place. It is simply a matter of filling a bottle with water and placing the back-bulbs in the water. The water must ke changed occa- Slonally. You will of course, get results, but 8enerally speaking such growths are weak and take a long time to make plants which, after all, 1s the results that we hope to achieve. Many Orchid books advise us to place the back-bulbs °n damp moss which will assist in producing aer- als, but again we find that such aerials seem to ack stamina. I must admit to having tried oth of thesé types of culture with very limited Tesults. Water is, of course, necessary to the Orchid, but we know that over watering can bring dire results. ' Some years ago I had the good fortune to see a large area of ground covered with plants of endrobium undulatum. They were all in bloom and presented a wonderful sight. It would have ata very hard to estimate how many plants ere were but they were very healthy and strong any pseudo-bulbs were much taller than my- self. I noticed that many of the outside bulbs Were partly eaten through about 20 feet from the ground—probably by wallabies—and they had bent over till the tops’ of the psuedo-bulbs rested on the ground. Most of these bulbs had aerial growths. I looked over these aerials very carefully and noticed that in each case the first pseudo-bulb was short and stout. Many of the aerials had three bulbs, the third being about 18 feet high and would have been a fine plant for any Orchid: grower. The ground was covered with leaves and the earth under them was damp and very friable. I pondered over this sight for some time, for here was food for thought which: could possibly be turned to good account. I went back and had another look at those aerials with but one thought. Why was the first bulb of each aerial short and stout? Suddenly I recalled the thin miserable growth produced by our “water cul- ture.” Had I found the answer? Was it the warmth of the ground or was it the compost of decayed leaves and friable soil into which the roots had worked their way, or was it the two combined that gave the first psuedo-bulb its strength and. stamina? I decided that this method was well worth try- ing, so I dug all my used compost, some ashes, sand and manure into a garden bed and that is where I raise my plants and aerials. The pseudo- bulbs are placed in the soil under a Croton bush, so that they do not get the full blast of the sun. With ths method I have been able to raise a lot of plants of Dendrobium x Bali and so in- crease my stock» Never before have I had such robust plants. PAGE 30 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 Section of Vanda Orchid Nunemy Cae N.Q. Tropical Orchids (Reg.) 342 Sheridan St., Cairns, N. Old. Queensland agents for: G. A. de Jong, Holland. Kian Kee Garden, Malaya. Standard Nursery, India. | Marcel Lecoufle, France. i Cattleyas. Specialising in hybrid Vandas, Phalaenopses, Dendrobiums, and Catalogues and Price Lists sent on application. Visitors welcome at Nursery. Ring Phone 2385 FLOWERS & VEGETABLES ALL THE YEAR! In and out of season, sun-loving plants thrive in the’ warm, ideal surroundings of ‘THE WALDOR”. The “WALDOR” is rust- proof — rot-proof — insect-proof — requires no maintenance — Peat, 10 years. Available all sizes and talon <2 STANHILL PTY. LTD. . ‘Box 5079AA., G,P.O., MELB., Vie. ‘Phone Win. 6902 (7 lines) i 2 Classified Advertisements Minimum 2 lines, 5/-; and |/- per line afterwards. FOR SALE.—Enquiries invited for quality hybrids of Vandas, Dendrobiums, Arandas, Oncidiums, Spathoglottis, etc., normally obtainable in Singa- pore. Mail orders always receive prompt atten- tion. Khoo Kay Ann, Telephone House, Hill St., Singapore 6. FOR SALE.—Aust. Orchid Review, Vols. 1 to 15. Strongly bound £4/4/0 or near offer plus postage. H. J. Exley, 12 Patrick St. Box Hill, Victoria. ORDERS ACCEPTED for Den. Phal. Schroed- erianum and its variety, Alba. Den. Aris, Phalaen- opsis, Amabilis, Vanda, Tricolor v. Tricuspidata, Renanthandra, Mars. Orchid Exchange (Regd. ay. 3 Pembroke St., Cairns, N.Q, ORCHIDS ANTHURIUM CALADIUM MARCEL LECOUFLE I. Rue de I'Eglise BOISSY-ST-LEGER— S & O. FRANCE VISITORS INVITED PHONE Nox 79 INDIAN ORCHIDS Five reasons why you should obtain your re- quirements from us:— 1. Good quality backed by good name, 2. Prices and terms most competitive. 3. Innumerable testimonials to prove the excellent | condition of the plants on arrival whether booked by Parcels Post or Air, 4. Reliability endorsed officially—you ean check this up with the Indian Embassy in your country. Special and most elaborate arrangement for collec- tion in all parts of India, including the remotest part. Hence many choice varieties can come in you first hand only from us, COMPLETE LIST AND PARTICULARS UPON REQUEST THE STANDARD NURSERY (Regd.) P.O. Kalimpong, Dist: Darjeeling, India. ou AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 | PAGE 31 TERRA COTTA ORCHID AND NURSERY POTS “DOONSIDE” BRAND Scientifically designed from specially selected clays for the propagation and nurturing of ORCHIDS, SHRUBS, BULBS and NURSERY PLANTS of all types, incorporating the following improved features :— % Adequate drainage hole. * Strongly constructed. * Clean edges. 4% Manufactured in range of sizes, 4”. oY, (S, Sia 10,” iL”, % Saucers supplied to match. Stocks currently available. Full particulars and prices from sole suppliers to the trade. - MAXWELL PORTER & SON LTD. 107 REDFERN ST., REDFERN, N.S.W. : ‘ MxX1323 — MX3157 SUPPLIERS OF AUSTRALIAN TERRA COTTA PRODUCTS FOR OVER 50 YEARS. PAGE 32 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 CYMBIDIUMS BACK-BULBS, SMALL PLANTS AND FLOWERING PLANTS TO SUIT ALL TASTES ALL ARE HYBRIDS ALL ARE DESIRABLE VARIETIES INSPECTION INVITED ON SATURDAY AFTERNOONS AND SUNDAYS . ) A. A. L. MeWILLIAMS | | (Agent for Shead’s Orchids) ; 3-5 CHELMSFORD RD., WENTWORTHVILLE, N.S.W. Phone UW8587 LOCATION: Follow Western Highway from Parramatta for approx. 24 miles, then branch off at Old Prospect Road Junction and take 4th turn on left. ORCHID EXCHANGE (Regd.) FOR (L. M. & W. F. Tierney) Tan Bark, Leaf Mould, Cow Manure, Tea Tree, Pots, and Orchid Growers’ Sundries. IMPORTERS & EXPORTERS GROWERS © ; PAINTER & STARKE CASTLE HILL NURSERY (Regd.) 3 PEMBROKE ST., CAIRNS, N.Q. Phone UW2551 Sensational News for Orchid Growers CARBAMIDE It's a tonic. It is beneficial to all Orchids Just watch them grow. 2lbs. or 3lbs. would be sufficient for 12 months for an average collection. Price 7/6 per Ib. Add postage. Obtainable from : Write for particulars YORK MEREDITH FITZPATRICK AVENUE FRENCH'S FOREST, N.S.W. nit Naa) CYPRIPEDIUM MAUDIAE v. magnificum 3-inch pots—One mature or flower growth. 4-inch pots—Two mature or flower growths. Two hundred plants are available for immediate shipment. E. W. McLELLAN CO. Box 289R, San Francisco 25, California ORCHID GROWERS : ; 2 QUANTITY DISCOUNTS EXPORTERS—IMPORTERS—HYBRIDIZERS kd ea eS ig se ip le er PAGE 34 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 High-class showy Orchids! Delivered free by Air Mal! Do not send payment in advance, pay after you have received the plants in good condition. Collection of showy Orchids in Dendrobiums, Cymbidiums, Coelo- gynes, Vandas, Cypripediums, £34 for 100; £19 for 50; £10/10/- for 25; and £6/10/- for 12 large and healthy plants of full flower- ing size. Double Gerbera seeds, selected strains. 8/- per 100; £2 per 1000. Single Gerbera seeds, best mixed, 6/- per 100; £1 per 1000. 12 pkts. Lilium seeds in different varieties, including Auratum and — Speciosum, £2/5/- Complete lists on Cattleyas, Laelias, etc., free THE UNITED FORAL CO. 81 Miles, Kalimpong, India CY Wis PICs BY EE © DGaNes Finest varieties, including Award. Winners. Also good Hybrid varieties for the new Grower. ‘For Lists write: — HODGINS ORCHIDS P.O. BOX 108, FRANKSTON, VICTORIA The Nursery is situated in Baden Powell Drive & Canning St., Mt. Eliza A USTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 ; PAGE 35 (EMME iT Co Oe Act, wl, fe LE SER OP) 2 we i ee 2 MINERAL SALT FERTILISERS ; DRY POWDERS supplied. R ded f i MINERAL FERTILISER (MISSOURI), | Ib. prepare eroullchste tn aeerinarliatt i , . prepares 28 gallons of watering liquid. Price, 30/- per Ib., post 2/6. MINERAL FERTILISER (OHIO). | Ib. prepares 80 gallons of watering fluid. Price 15/- per Ib., post 26. KNUDSON'S AGAR (Formula "'C") A. PREPARED READY FOR INOCULATION. Flask iti . quantities only. Rates on request. r B. Meaty MIXED KNUDSON'S AGAR (DRY). Add water and sterilise. Compounded to give final pH 4.8—5.0. grams, sufficient for | litre, 15/-. (Post 2/6). 4 Ib. sufficient for litres, 40/-. (Post 2/6). INOCULATION OF SEEDS ONTO AGAR is unde ttaken at, the rates of: £1 half d , £1/15/- d ; £9 per half gross, of Culture vessels inoculated. ens ee era ar Ww. H. BLACK 185 OXFORD ST. (at Taylor Square), SYDNEY, N.S.W. Phone: FA7462 CASUARINA (oak leaf) mould, 5/- ORCHID COMPOST IN SACK LOTS corn bag | Full Sack . £1 0 0 ROTTED WOOD, 10/- per sugar bag b sacks 2 “55 5 0 City—delivery arranged. Couhtry—on rail. RIVER SAND, 3/6 per sugar bag CHARCOAL, 10/- per sugar bag COLIN R. HAMILTON Cymbidium Orchid Specialist Compost & Pottery Manufacturer 133-135 HAWKESBURY ROAD, WESTMEAD (near P.O. and Railway Station) Phone: UW8430 Delivery can be arranged Call or write W. J. BENNETT 83 EVELYN ST., SYLVANIA, N.S.W. Notice to Advertisers ae All enquiries as to Advertising space should be addressed to the publishers: AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW SHEPHERD & NEWMAN YURONG STREET, SYDNEY ORCHID PLANTS WANTED All Varieties Preferably in Spike From Single Plants to Collections THE HERBAL HOME OF INDIA OFFER A COMPLETE RANGE OF Orchids, Bulbs and Lilium Seed Wholesale Lists and full particulars from J. E. JONES, "LIMBERLOST™ FRESHWATER, CAIRNS, N.Q. (Australian Agent) Also available: A good range of Australian Native Orchids. - yt FRANK’S ORCHIDS 364 VICTORIA ROAD DRUMMOYNE Telephone WA1678 PAGE 36 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 Orchids - Orchids We have a fine collection of all varieties of Orchids, including Cymbidiums, Dendrobiums, and many other miscellaneous and glasshouse plants, Anthuriums, etc. Inspection cordially invited any day. (Sundays excepted) JOHN BISSET NURSERY — Phone WAI124 PRIVATE (Evenings) JA8906 Read “The Charm of Growing Orchids,” by P. A. Gilbert—Price 21/- (post 1/-) Agents for the “Australian Orchid Review” ORCHIDS in Great Britain In all kinds Messrs. B. F. Stevens & Brown Limited, Seedlings and mature plants New Ruskin House Sakltgio ites on efpiesiitn 28-30 Little Russell Street LONDON, W.C.1 MARCEL LECOUFLE 1. Rue de I'Eglise are carrying stocks of current and back numbers BOISSY-ST-LEGER S & O FRANCE of the Australian Orchid Review. Readers in Visitors always welcome Great Britain should communicate with them regarding their supplies. - Books on Orchids PICTURES WITH FLOWERS (J. Clements). Illust. 15/9. Post 8d. GLADIOLUS (F. Rockwell), TIllust. 16/9. Post. 6d. BETTER ROSES (A. S. Thomas). Col. Plates, 19/6. Post 9d. ORCHIDS, THEIR CULTURE AND CLASSIFICATION (P. Gilbert), lust. £2/2/-. Post 1/3. YOUR VEGETABLE GARDEN (VY. Stevenson). Illust. 13/3. Post 8d. THE BOOK OF THE GERANIUM (J. E. Cross). Col. and B.W. Plates. £1/10/-. Post 8d YOUR WINTER GARDEN (S. B. Whitehead). £1/1/-. Post 8d. CACTI (J. Borg). Illust. £3/7/6. Post 1/6. ORCHIDS AND HOW TO GROW THEM (A. C. Willoughby). Ilust. £1/9/9. Post 6d. A.B.C. OF ORCHID GROWING (J. V. Watkins). Illust. £1/12/-. Post 1/- AMERICAN ORCHID CULTURE (E. A. White). Col. Plates, £2/19/8. Post 1/-. HOME GROWING ORCHIDS (R. Northen) Col..Plates. £2/9/3. Post 1/- ORCHIDS ARE EASY TO GROW (Logan and Cosper). Col. Plates. £2/18/3. Post 9d. ORCHIDS AND THEIR CULIVATION (Sanders), £1/1/-. Post 6d. : NATIVE ORCHIDS OF NORTH AMERICA, NORTH OF MEXICO (D. S. Correll). Illust. £4/6/9. Post 2/3. ORCHIDS FOR AMATEURS (T. W. Briscoe). Ilust. 10/9. Post 6d. ATLAS DES ORCHIDEES CULTIVEES (J. Constantin), 1000 figures in colours, French Text. £6/10/-. Post 9d. A CULTURAL TABLE OF ORCHIDACEOUS PLANTS (J. M. Cox). Col. and B.W. Plates. £4/4/-. Post 1/6. AUSTRALIAN ORCHIDS (W H. Nicholls), Comprising 25 parts to be published over 18 years, 24 col. plates in each part. Part I and II now ready. Price £7/10/- each. Orders booked, ORCHIDS OF THE OUTDOOR GARDEN (A. W. Darnell). Illust. £3/18/7. Post 2/-. THE WILD ORCHIDS OF BRITAIN (Jocelyn Brooke). Col. Plates. £13/1/6. Post 2/6. ORCHIDS, THEIR DESCRIPTION AND CULTIVATION (C. H. Curtis). Illust. £4/18/-. Post 1/-. Also, 10,000 new and second-hand books on Botany, Natural History, Early Australia, Art, Fine Literature, etc. Catalogues free. Scientific Instruments, Magnifiers, Microscopes, ete. N. H. SEWARD PTY. LTD. 457C BOURKE STREET, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA. MU6129 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 The Orchid Society of N.S.W. Meets Last Monday: Y.W.C.A., Liverpool St., Opposite Anzac Memorial, Sydney TUES., MAR. 24th MON., APRIL 28th MON., MAY 26th Patron: His Honour JUDGE H. F. MARKELL, Lawrence Ave., Turramurra. President: JOHN BISSET, 8 Brisbane Street, Lindfield. Phone: JA8906 Hon. Secretary: J. C. DAVIS, 16 Jarrett St., Campsie Hon. Treasurer: L. A. PEATY, 684 Forest Road, Bexley. Phone: LW3108 Hon. Editor: P. A. GILBERT, 37 Colin St., Lakemba. The Queensland Orchid Society Meets Second Friday: Miniature Rifle Range Building, Boundary Street, Brisbane FRI., MAR. 14th FRI., APRIL 11th FRI., MAY 9th Patron: E. J. BEARD, Esq., 207 Cavendish Rd., Coorparoo, SE2. President: T. C. HARVEYSON, “Mildura,” Dorrington Drive, Ashgrove, W.3. Hon. Secretary: S. H. PHILLIPS, G.P.O. Box 2002X, Brisbane. Hon. Treasurer: J. P. McPHEE, Carmody Rd., St. Lucia, $.W.1., Brisbane The Victorian Orchid Club Meets Third Monday: The Independent Church Hall, Collins Street, Melbourne, at 8 p.m. MON., MAR. 17th MON., APRIL 21st MON., MAY 19th President: R. VICK, 32 Northcote Ave., Balwyn, E.8 Phone, WF2365 Hon. Secretary: J. R. McARTHUR, 24 Somerset Rd., Glen Iris. Phone, WM1314 Hon. Treasurer: G. HAND, 36a Weybridge St., Surrey Hills. Phone, WF2894. The Orchid Club of South Australia Meets Royal Society Rooms, Institute Building, North Terrace and Kintore Ave., Adelaide THURS., MAR. 6th THURS., APRIL 3rd THURS., MAY Ist Patron: The Premier, Hon. T. PLAYFORD, Norton Summit. President: L. H. B. HUDD, 30 Davenport ‘Terrace, Wayville. Hon. Secretary-Treasurer: H. C. ENGLAND, 31 Angas Road, Lower Mitcham. The Orchid Society of Western Australia Meets Fourth Friday: Perth Bowling Club Rooms, Esplanade. FRI., MAR. 28th FRI., APRIL 25th FRI., MAY 23rd President: J. HAMMOND Hon. Secretary: F. §. FARRANT, 22 Stirling Highway, Claremont Hon. Treasurer: W. E. BARNES, 36 Stirling Highway, Nedlands. WM3246 The Hobart Orchid Club Meets Third Thursday: Office of Mr. G. A. Roberts, 52 Murray St., Hobart President: Mrs. A. R. Park. Hon. Secretary: A. Cruickshank, 72 Tolosa St., Glenorchy. Wholly set up and printed in Australia by the Proprietors, Shepherd & Newman Pty. Lid., Yurong St., Sydney, N.S.W. f P. A, Gilbert, Hon. Editor. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, MARCH, 1952 Armstrong & Brown Proprietor: Clint McDade. Manager: J. L. Humphreys. TUNBRIDGE WELLS ENGLAND Solicit enquiries for COMMERCIAL AND EXHIBITION ORCHIDS Unflowered and Flowered plants of all types available. Splendid vigorous stocks raised from the finest parents. VAISS IRIs ORRSS Ee GeOURIDSIFAGIS [Vaan NGVe lala A personal visit to our greenhouses will demonstrate the high standard of culture maintained. CZ Armstrong & Brown ORCHIDHURST, SANDHURST PARK, TUNBRIDGE WELLS Cables: Orchid, Tunbridge Wells. Telephone: Southborough 276 PUBLISHED QUARTERLY Vs @) ali NO? PRICE 3/6 JUNE, 1952 CYMBIDIUM X LOUIS SANDER var. KIRRIBILLI (greatly reduced). THE OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE ORCHID SOCIETY OF NEW SOUTH WALES, THE QUEENSLAND ORCHID SOCIETY, THE VICTORIAN ORCHID CLUB, THE ORCHID CLUB OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA, THE ORCHID SOCIETY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA, AND THE HOBART ORCHID CLUB. Page il AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 ORCHIDS of Quality Coe DEANE PARK and GREEN STREETS, GLENBROOK NEW SOUTH WALES ‘Telephone Glenbrook 481 AUCTION SALE OF ORCHIDS An enormous auction sale of the valuable Orchid collection belonging to Mrs. Worth (widow of the late W. Worth, late Editor of the ‘Australian Orchid Review,” of Ward Street, Willoughby), will be held on two days, 26th July and 2nd August, 1952, wet or fine, at the new glasshouse of Mr. Leo Giles, Pennant Hills Road, Carlingford, opposite wireless station. Refreshments will be available on the ground. Proceeds in aid of the Crippled Children’s Association. The plants will be available for inspection during the week commencing the 19th July. Almost every first class Cymbidium Orchid that has won a First Prize or taken an Award in Sydney or Melbourne is included. Many small divisions will be available for those who have not a big purse. A few of the leading varieties available are as follow:— |. Girrahween var. Enid (F.C.C. and Gold Medal) . Sussex var. Laelia Sasso (H.C.). Cygnus var. Opalescent Girrahween var. Gloria (A.M.) Princesse Astrid var. Dorothy (H.C.). Louis Sander var. Kirribilli (A.M.). Sandpiper var. Dorothy (H.C.) Mayfair var. Collaroy (winner best colour, 1950) Also a large collection of choice award varieties of Slipper Orchids and the best collection of Dendrobiums in Australia. Further particulars will be advertised in the local press. dt ttttdttttttttttttttSttt SS AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 Page 37 Special Announcement to Orchid Enthusiasts John Bisset has pleasure in announcing the publication of a Book on Orchid Culture which is an invaluable aid to Orchid enthusiasts. ORCHIDS FOR EVERYBODY by R. Bruce Hogg Over 200 pages with 32 pages of Illustrations Price 25/- (Post 1/- extra) J O H N B I S S E ap PRIVATE (Evenings) JA8906 NURSERY — Phone WAI124 FLANDRIA LTD. BRUGES BELGIUM QUALITY IN ORCHIDS Thousands of mature and flowering- CYMBIDIUMS (hybrids) sized Cattleya, Brassocattleya, Brasso- laeliocattleya, Laeliocattleya, Potinara, Sophrolaeliocattleya available. CYPRIPEDIUM hybrids for first class Inspection Invited on any day by cut flowers. arrangement CYMBIDIUM: The collection of 5,000 plants previously advertised is now sold. However, we are in a position to offer Cymbidium seedlings of excellent par- entage and in large quantities. L. H. NEWMAN e 80 Provincial Road, Lindfield Bank Drafts for plants now obtainable from SYDNEY, N.S.W. your Bank. Tel. JM2803 Special offers and Lists airmailed free on request. Including Finest Varieties FRANK SLATTERY 12 EDDYSTONE RD., BEXLEY SYDNEY, N.S.W. - cordially invites all Orchid Lovers to inspect his stocks of Australian raised Cymbidium and Cattleya seedlings on» hand. Dendrobiums, Phaius, Miscellaneous Orchids, etc. Call and inspect a vey compact Hot Box, and the simple and economical Aladdin Glass House Heater, for the improvement of growth in nursery plants. Phone: LX2985 Beginners welcomed and every assistance given Page 38 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 “GREENACRES” announces that scars of December’s Bushfires are healed. Cymbidiums now give promise for a lovely display for this 1952 season. T his is your invitation to come and see that display any time from June to December. BUSH FIRE OPPORTUNITIES Large plants, divided after the Bush Fire, and transferred to pots in sizes convenient to handle, are growing nicely. In the coming spring 15,000 of them will be available to purchasers. A pre-selection offer is now open to those interested. Plants in 6 inch pots £1/1/-, Plants in 8 inch pots £2/2/-, Plants in 10 inch pots, £3/3/-. have values ten times that for each bulb of These are all from two bush houses being grown mainly for flowers for export, in the plant. which the fire destroyed the majority of the NEW ORCHID BOOK name labels. Orchid growers do not need Roy Deane’s Book on Orchid Culture is ex- to be told that this is an ounstandingly un- pected from the printers in August. Write usual chance. Those who know “Greenacres” without delay and register your name in know that, for a guinea, Cymbidiums will be order to receive a copy. Sent post-free when bought which, upon flowering, will prove to published. “Greenacres’—Valley Heights, Remember—at GREENACRES a child On the Lower Blue Mountains, N.S.W. can buy Orchids with complete safety. 2451. NOE Sane @hwy sear SLOUGH, BUCKS., ENGLAND GSD We have a limited number of FLOWERED Cattleyas, FLOWERED Cypripediums and FLOWERED Cymbidiums for sale and are able to despatch to Australia throughout our winter, due to our proximity to London Airport. We do not at present issue a catalogue, but lists of plants will be willingly sent to enquirers. Please state in what genera interested. We do not sell community pots or small plants. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 ODONTOGLOSSUMS ODONTIODAS and allied genera in great variety are available to you from the CHOICEST STOCK IN THE WORLD HIGH QUALITY MODERN HYBRIDS in a wider colour range than exists in any other generic group of orchids NO LESS THAN 47 AWARDS BY THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY SECURED BY OUR ODONTOGLOS- SUMS AND ALLIED GENERA SINCE 1948 We shall have the pleasure in quoting you in these or other genera on advice of your requirements to CHARLESWORTH & Co. Ltd. Haywards Heath, Sussex, England For the finest ORCHID HYBRIDS in all genera Specialty of: Cattleyas and allied genera Vandas, Phalaenopses Miltonias, Odontonias and Odontoglossums Australian clients can obtain our Catalogue from L. Giles, Carlingford, N.S.W. VACHEROT-LECOUFLE BOISSY—SAINT—LEGER Seine et Oise, FRANCE Cable: Vacherot—Boissy St. Leger Seine et Oise, France Phone: Boissy St. Leger 42 VISITORS WELCOME Page 39 INDIAN ORCHIDS By Air or Sea. Direct from our Nurseries Cymbidium, Cypripedium, Dendrobium, Vanda Coerulea, etc. We stock all the best kinds of horti- cultural and botanical Indian Orchids. Write for place your order immediately for the our catalogue now, and Indian Autumn (November approxi- mately) delivery. G. GHOSE & CO. Townend, DARJEELING, INDIA FLOWERS & VEGETABLES ALL THE YEAR! In and out of season, sun-loving plants thrive in the Warm, ideal surroundings of Hi WAL The TAL DOR is rust-proof — rot-proof — insect-proof — requires no maintenance — pusten ees 10 years. Available all sizes and shapes. i'ialdor GREENHOUSES PANE PTY. LTD. “ Box 5079 A G,P.O., MELB. mic. Vie. ‘Phone nine 6902 ey lines) Mere TREMORVA ORCHIDS Good quality Cymbidiums at reasonable prices. SURPLUS STOCK SALE Inspection Saturday Afternoon, Sundays only. Country enquiries and orders receive prompt attention. TREMORVA ORCHIDS 24 Murray St., Lane Cove, N.S.W. Off Ralston St., near Mowbray Road. JA5I06 Page 40 SHEAD’S ORCHIDARIUM A SEASONAL ANNOUNCEMENT Of interest to all Orchid enthusiasts. The Orchidarium is now open to local visitors, country clients, and all those interested in the growing of Orchids. This season promises to be our best as all our Champion Cymbidiums are showing every indication of surpassing our previous efforts in the quality and excellence of our spikes and blooms, the growth and bulb develop- ment being superior in every respect. We have now completed all our building operations which include modern Tea- rooms, and other conveniences for our customers, such as seating accommodation, and full protection from rain and stormy weather. Due to the elevated position of Shead’s Orchidarium, several Look-outs provide an unsurpassed panoramic view of the surrounding suburbs. Immediately below the Look-outs native shrubs, trees, and other ornamental vegetation help to form a rest- ful scene. Country, Interstate, and Overseas Orchid enthusiasts will enjoy inspect- ing this leading Show place for Orchids. ‘There is not anything like it in Australia. Spend a Saturday or Sunday amid beautiful Orchids in a superb environment. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 Page 41 MODERN SEED-RAISING PLANT The completion of one of the most modern and complete laboratories for raising seedlings of all varieties of Orchids has been accomplished. “The Orchidarium’s Lab- oratory is built of plate and commercial glass throughout. We have been particu- larly fortunate in being able to engage Mr. Van de Brun from England, who also’ has been occupied.in Orchid culture in Holland and India, to manage this industry for us. The wide experience of this expert will be available for answering inquiries with regard to seedlings, and all communications should be addressed to him personally, c/- of Shead’s Orchidarium. Here in the Orchidarium you will be able to examine seeds being raised under exactly the same methcds as those in use in Holland and the U.S.A. LABOUR DIFFICULTIES HAVE BEEN OVERCOME Owing to the many difficulties associated with building operations, the general shortage of labour, and our inability to secure suitable clerical assistance, we have been unable to answer hundreds of inquiries about Orchid culture received from our numerous clients all over Australia. This shortcoming has now been completely rec- tified. By writing to Mr. J. O’Brien, c/- Shead’s Orchidarium, all inquiries in future will be answered immediately. Our floral display will begin early in June and terminate about the end of November. Do not fail to visit the Orchidarium during this period. Open every day in the week from from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Orchidarium carries large stocks of all accessories to Orchid culture— composts, pots, labels, etc. “The beginner or advanced grower will find it very convenient to buy at Shead’s Orchidarium. SHEAD’S ORCHIDARIUM 105 HOMER ST., EARLWOOD, N.S.W. Phone: LL3591 LOCATION Shead’s Orchidarium is six (6) miles from Sydney, and is situated on top of the hill just over the Cook’s River Bridge at Undercliffe on the Earlwood tramline. A regular and frequent tram service from Sydney to Earlwood stops at the entrance to the Orchidarium. Visitors trayelling by rail should alight at Marrickville Station, then take the tram, alighting at the third stop after crossing the Cook’s River Bridge. Motorists pss over the Marrickville Rail- way Bridge, following the tramline to the top of the hill at Earlwood. Me - Page 42 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 orchids BUSINESS AS USUAL to the eWei ie We are the original pioneers and largest consignors of cymbidium blooms throughout the world. . Our system of packing, merchandising and consign- ing is recognised in the United States as the best. We collect regularly during the season. RELIABILITY, SERVICE AND SATISFACTION WE PAY HIGHEST PRICES AND CASH! CONTACT US EARLY. Ci eae. eel es le IL 172 HARROW ROAD, KOGARAH, N.S.W. Telephone LW3502 US tra hey, lee evLew Volume 17 JUNE, 1952 No. 2 The author of each article is responsible for the facts and opinions Contents ARTICLES California Cymbidiums Inc.— C. M. Carlton (Mrs.) Cymbidium x Louis Sander var. Kirribilli—P.4.G. Editorial—Book Reviews - - - - General Patton v. Stalin—E. Peckover - - Gleanings from Overseas Orchid Periodicals—A. R. Persson News and Notes - - - : é - Orchids for Export—Peter Black - . - Retrospect of an Orchid Fancier, The—Alan R. Begg Spring Orchid Shows - - - = aes Tan Bark—H. R. G. Poate (Dr.) - - - Visit to Messrs. Charlesworth & Co. Ltd.. A—E, Peckover ILLUSTRATIONS A. R. Begg - - 2 s 2 és Cymbidium x Adele Sander var. Narcissus (Colour) Cymbidium x Louis Sander yar. Kirribilli - Cymbidium x Neville Chamberlain—W. Harris Cymbidium x Sandpiper var. Dorothy - Cypripedium x Balaclava var. Margaret - Cypripedium x Brita var. Rotunda - - Cypripedium x Utopia var. Girrahween - 52, 58, 63, 64, 66 expressed therein. 2 - = > gv 59 - 57 - 45 - 58, 62 - 51 = 63 - 55 - 55 Front cover - 54 - 53 - 53 5 53 - 53 Packing Orchids for Exportation—G. H. Greville-A. E. L. Mash - 55, 56 Personnel Hon. Editor: P. A. Gilbert, 37 Colin St., Lakemba, N.S.W. Associates . QUEENSLAND: VICTORIA: SOUTH AUSTRALIA WESTERN AUSTRALIA: Trevor E, Hunt R. Vick R. J. Langdon A. C. Dawson 15 Challinor St. 32 Northcote Av. 8 Regent St., 50 Bay View Tce Ipswich. Balwyn, E.8. Millswood Mosman Park Articles, photos, and drawings are invited, and may be forwarded to any of the above gentlemen, for publication in the Australian Orchid Review. While the Proprietors of the Australian Orchid Review endeavour to assure the reliability of their advertising, neither the Proprietors of the ‘‘Australian Orchid Review’’ nor the affiliated Orchid Societies can assume responsibility for any transactions between their advertisers and their readers. Subscription Rates: Australia and New Zealand, 12/6 per annum; Overseas, 12/6 sterling per annum. Post free. Payable to Shepherd & Newman Pty. Ltd., Yurong St., Sydney, Australia. SH 1 TE ey aio if i ‘ hy lls MXn TARPO | SF | TASMANIA: F. W. Chilvers 1 Lassuade Ave. Sandy Bay Page 44 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 Editorial ORCHIDS OF THE WEST by Rica, Erickson (Mrs.), contains 109 pages and is illustrated with drawings by the authoress. There are 22 coloured plates, 20 of which are accompanied by black and white drawings to illustrate the most salient features of the flower, 10 black and white and four figures in the text. Cloth binding. Printed by Messrs. Paterson Brokensha Pty. Ltd., Perth. Price £1/5/0, obtainable at all leading booksellers in the capital cities. Only those acquainted with the compilation of a field handbook on Orchids can have any idea of the prodigious amount of time that is devoted to study and research in bringing it - to completion. With the addition of ‘coloured and pen drawings, the degree of concentration is such that only an expert and enthusiast could carry it out. Therefore, Mrs. Rica Erickson is to be con- gratulated on achieving the publication of a very useful and instructive work on Western Australian Orchids. The line drawings are neat and clean, making them a real pleasure to study. There is something fascinating about a line drawing, as it gives in detail an image of the conspicuous parts much more clearly than a photograph does. The coloured plates of Epiblema grandi- florum and Caladenia flava are particularly attractive, but some of the more delicate sub- jects are reproduced rather coarsely. ‘Taken together, however, the coloured illustrations afford a valuable aid for the determination of species in the field. There is a key to the genera and keys to the species are in their appropri- ate places throughout the text. The following items could have been ampli- fied. On page 9 the authoress is only partly correct in saying “Orchids combine the stigma and stamens in one column,” a more complete explanation being that the column is the re- sult of adhesion between the stamens and the pistil. The distribution of Diuris setacea is given as “W.A. Albany district.” The Swedish Scien- tific Expedition to Australia, 1910-1913, re- corded it on the Darling Range, W.A., August, 1911, about 200 miles north of Albany. Miss- ing this obscure reference, of course, is due to the erratic methods of biologists in recording observations and describing species in literature remote from the point of inquiry. If a re- searcher had a lifetime to spare he could spend a great deal of it in delving into old journals from far and wide that record details of the animals and plants not far from his front door. “Some Orchids of Western Australia,” by R. D. Royce, and illustrated with photographs by the late W. H. Nicholls, which appeared in the Australian Orchid Review, Vol. 15, Part 4, 1950, would have increased the usefulness of. the references, especially for W.A. students. YOUR FIRST ORCHIDS AND HOW TO GROW THEM:—A symposium by a number of the leading Orchid authorities and growers in the U.S.A. There are 10 coloured plates (6 Galley group, 2 Cymbidium, 2 Cypripedium), 6 photographic reproductions and three sets of line drawings; 72 pages on art paper; format Qin. x bin. The price of the bock is $1.15, U.S.A., post paid, and can be obtained from the Oregon Orchid Society Inc., P.O. Box 2184-A, Portland 14, Oregon, U.S.A. Mrs. Scott Hyde i is the Editor. The front cover has a coloured reproduction of the pretty Cattleya x Lorna var. Corona, while the back cover depicts that of Cattleya x Bow Bells. In every respect the book is mag- nificently produced and, being on art paper throughout, it would be difficult to find better value in Orchid literature. The Oregon Orchid Society has published this 72-page handbook on Orchid culture par- ticularly for the beginner and to encourage those who already have an interest in Orchids. The book is also of interest and value to the more advanced Orchid hobbyist, as it gives de- tailed cultural requirements of a number of the more commonly grown genera. ‘There are sketches and charts, blooming calendars, ques- tions and answers, in reality it is a “bantam encyclopaedia.” The work is quite suitable for Australian Orchid growers as the articles are of general interest, but mostly written for glass-house conditions. It is not easy to make a representa- tive selection from such a useful guide, but “What is an Orchid,’ “Unusual Orchids,” “How Orchids Bloom,’ “How Orchids are Named,” “Orchids for Beginners,” “How to Grow Cymbidiums,” etc., are only a few of the many choice ‘ ‘pickings,” which will serve to show its wide scope. It is pleasant, too, to note that the ladies figure prominently in the contributions. The publication is strongly re- commended to all Orchid lovers. = See eee ee AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 Page 45 The Retrospect of an Orchid Fancier ALAN R. BEGG I first met Mr. Begg about twelve years ago when he asked me at the lift door on what floor the O.S. of N.S.W. held its Meetings. in those days. hibites We met in Phillip St. Since ther Mr. Begg has become a prominent. member and_ successful ex- Recently Mr. Begg completed a three-year term as Ptesident of the Society, so I asked him if he would give readers and members some of his reminiscences from the time that he first thought of growing Orchids, and here they are-—Hon. Editor © I always have been fond of growing plants and especially since I married I have spent many hours each week in the garden. We had a large house and garden and during 1940 my wife and I thought the place was too big and too much work so we decided to get something smaller. Eventually we arranged for a flat with a lovely harbour view. This completely altered my gardening activities as it meant, in fact, Pot plants if I was to grow anything at all. _ Well! I started on Cyclamen, ferns, Glox- Inias and tuberous Begonias, all very beauti- ful in their own spheres and particularly the Begonias, as good varieties are unsurpassed for form and colour. Oh! if we could only incor- Porate more of these qualities in the Cymmbi- diums. I knew practically nothing about Orchids at this stage, but walking through Paddy’s Tarket one Friday I saw a species Cymbi- dium Lowianum in flower, which I purchased as my first Orchid. Little did I know at the time what it would do for me, and how sub- Sequently I became interested and what great Pleasure the hobby has given me in the years since. Looking back, I recall the pleasure that was Mine in the successful purchase of a small piece of a good variety of Cymbidium. The good Ones were hard to purchase years ago and it took a long time to get together a quantity of the best varieties. However, the collection im- Proved and so did my culture and I found good growing produced good flowers. Cymbi- diums grown in sweet open compost and Watered regularly, and particularly in the Warm months, brought results. “The Orchid Shows appealed to me and, I am sure, are a great incentive to Orchid growers in general as well as being floral feasts for the general Public, the competitive sections in particular being a great attraction. I joined the Orchid Society of N.S.W. in 1941, then the only Orchid Society in Sydney. What a difference Now with a dozen societies in the suburbs and undreds of members attending their meetings Tegularly. The greatly increased interest in Orchids in Sydney is mainly due to Cymbi- diums, which grow so easily here out of doors, No expense being needed in the construction of a glass-house and its heating apparatus. The long lasting and very decorative sprays of the Cymbidium have great appeal. The modern hybrid Cymbidium has so far surpassed the species in colour and quality that in many collections species are not grown and practically never seen at Orchid exhibitions. We have received over the last 12 years many wonderful Cymbidium hybrids from England, mostly arriving as unflowered seedlings. Prob- ably the greatest parent of recent hybrids has been Alexanderi var. Westonbirt; it has lifted the race to a higher plane, giving better tex- ture, size, shape and robust free-flowering plants, the only detraction, if it be so, is to exert its influence in colour, as most of the hybrids in which it appears are white, near white or cream flowers. Of the hybrids containing Alexanderi var. Westonbirt, 1 would say Swallow was the most outstanding, with Pauwelsii var. magnificum as the other parent, we received Swallow var. magnolia, Swallow var. Soulangeana and Swal- low var. Daffodil, a lovely yellow, and many others. Any good collection of Cymbidiums in Sydney or Melbourne could contain a dozen varieties. I think a reproduction of this cross would be popular. When Pauwelsii var. Comte. de Hemptine replaced Pauwelsii var. magnificum in Swallow the colour changed from mostly white to pink tones, but on plants I have seen the texture was coarse. Plants con- taining Pauwelsii usually show remarkable growth. Alexanderi var. Westonbirt x Ceres F. J. Hanbury gaye us Louis Sander, another batch of good hybrids of which varieties Kirribilli and Girrahween are noted examples. We have received many show flowers from hybrids such as C. Arabella, C. Cassandra, C. Balkis, C. Sussex, C. Eagle, C. Cygnus and others. Of the coloured types, I would say C. Carisbrook (Ceres x Ralph Sander) would be one of the best, mostly red tones it has given us, among which are some fine colours. But of all the hybrid Cymbidiums to reach Sydney, I am sure GC. Girrahween (Flamenco x Lowianum) was the most sensational, the parentage did not impress growers here and the seedlings were hard to sell. I understand less than two dozen Page 46 plants were imported and practically ail were good, several very good, and two were cham- pions. Girrahween var. Enid and Guirrahween var. Gloria are real champions, while varieties like Redstar, Lenzi, Elaine, Cronulla are very fine Cymbidiums. What would have happened had we received hundreds of this cross and why has it not been reproduced again? I wonder? Possibly the last war interfered with the production of new hybrids, but we do not seem to be getting any new outstanding Cymbidiums in recent years. I think, to keep the interest keen in growing, we must get good flowers yearly if possible. May we hope some new Australian-raised hyb- rids will fill the gap—they are improving. Ten years ago one or two growers in Syd- ney started to use tan-bark in their composts, others waited to se if it killed the Orchids or what else might happen. Now it is regarded here as a universal compost for Cymbidiums and, mixed with leaf-mould and possibly some coarse sand, makes a fine mixture. That is, if your tan-bark is of suitable quality and not too acid. I have been unfortunate recently in using some in which the roots of Dendrobiums and Cattleyas refused to enter, the roots turn- ing black when they touched it. I believe the best tan-bark comes from the Black Wattle tree (Acacia decurrens), but~>the main factor is the treatment it receives at the tannery dur- ing the extraction of the tannic acid. If clear water is used and the tan-bark is discarded immediately the acid is extracted, the spent bark should be excellent, but if the bark is re- tained by the tannery and used as a filter for its liquors the bark becomes too acid and has a “gummy” appearance. A pH indication of 5.2 to 5.6 should make a good compost, but any pH much below 5.0 would be too acid. - Tan-bark used in the manufacture of white- lead for paint should be discarded as unsuit- able. May I suggest that if you think your tan- bark is too acid it may be advisable to expose it to the weather in small heaps to allow it to be washed by the hose and rain. When rotting down your compost, mix your tan-bark and leaf-mould, etc., together in small heaps, turn- ing it over weekly—remember, warmth, mois- ture and air—to have it ready before the pot- ting season starts. Cymbidium culture has improved consider- ably over the last 10 years and the use of glass in flowering has given us better flowers for shows. The use of shade has assisted in the perfect flowering of greens, such as the hybrid AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 Cygnus var. Opalescent, a beautiful pastel green, if grown in the shade; whereas if flowered in the sun it develops a cream flower with dirty brown sun marks on the sepals. We find light assists some red flowers, also pinks, or does it? I am not sure that direct sunlight fades out some colours even before the buds are open. We still have a lot to learn in pro- per flowering, but it is interesting and guite worth while. (Refer Mr. Leo Giles article Vol. 16, No. 3, September, 1951, A.O.R.) I am still sure that the north-east aspect is the best, with protection from the west and south. The use of glass in the form of a modi- fied glass-house may be a suggestion for the future, but it must be moist and cool, not hot and dry, as Cymbidiums do not appreciate these conditions. Go a few hundred miles north to Brisbane and Cymbidiums do not flower well due to the conditions being too warm and, probably, not a sufficient dormant period. Some Cymbidium growers in Southern California place their plants out in lathe houses (bush- houses) during the growing season and then under glass for the winter months and flower- ing. I mentioned before that tan-bark, leaf-mould and sand make a suitable Cymbidium compost. I have added at different times cow manure, sheep manure, bone meal, hops, but I did not see any improvement in the size or quality of the flowers. I have dropped charcoal from my compcst. I have always been doubtful about it and I found if placed on zinc crocks as added drainage it is a definite menace, a chemical action takes place and all roots turn black at the tips and stop growing immediately they touch the charcoal. This happened to many plants of mine. I give my plants plenty of sunlight, prob- ably tco much in recent years. ‘The leaves yellow slightly, but I get plenty of flowers. I would suggest 50-50 per cent. sun and shade on a one-way trellis with thin wood battens and narrow spaces between. Some growers are having heavy gauge din. or jin. mesh wire placed over their plants for shade and protec- tion from hail. This is an advance step as hail can ruin a collection of flowers in five minutes for the season. Watering is a constant job for an Orchid grower. One seems to spend years of his life at the end of a hese. From October to March it was my practice to water almost every day when no rain was about. I have changed this policy recently to watering my Cymbidiums about three times during the week at night, a a oe ee ee a ee eee i ss SS ee i I Le ip A A AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 keeping the hose more on the compost and not so much overhead. This I did to harden the growths so that they can withstand the sun’s Tays and not burn or turn black as has been the case with many growers in recent years. So far this year I see no signs of scald on the growths or pseudo-bulbs. I have also reduced the quantity cf sand in the compost to assist In retaining moisture. ‘Ge As the summer passes and autumn approaches flower spikes begin to appear. See that they face the north, but don’t place them across a path where they will be broken off. I have done this myself. The winter flowering types Open their flowers to start the season which teaches its peak in September. What wonder- ful things Cymbidiums are! and thousands ave never seen or heard of them! I am pre- Paring for a show my three best flowers. I have two goods ones, but the third may let me down. Can I muster three colours? I have Plenty of greens, but not a yellow. Or per- aps I have a red and a yellow, but cannot find a suitable third. Yes! It happens every year, Well, all good things come to an end, so the flower season ends, when there is work to o—re-potting. It has been common practice to re-pot Cymbidiums as soon as possible after flowering to give them a long growing season So that the pseudo-bulbs will make up in time to flower the following season. This is good Ogic and is adopted successfully in most cases. ut some varieties of Cymbidiums resent being cut up and practically collapse. Green and yel- Ow flowering types being particularly bad in this regard. Transpiration of water from the €aves and no intake by the roots cause the bulbs to shrink and the plants get in a dis- tressed way, sometimes passing out. When you cut and re-pot a Cattleya or Den- drobium you wait until new roots start to appear; why not do this with a Cymbidium? Suggest with bad types you do not re-pot until Toot tips are growing again or, better still, Sever the pseudo-bulbs but leave them together in the pot and do not re-pot until, say, January or later, when root action would be stronger, this method would be the best for the difficult Ones like Grand Monarch var. Exquisitum, Oyance and some grandiflorum hybrids. An- Other way to combat pseudo-bulbs shrinking is to spray the leaves all over with a mucilage °f gum to stop transpiration from the leaves. Cannot give any results of this method. Pests. Through the years I have had little trouble with pests among Cymbidiums grown Page 47 out of doors. One year small birds (Bul-Buls) wrecked the buds, but I now hang pieces of mirror above the plants and have not had any more trouble. Brown scale appears on an odd plant, but it is removed without much bother. The soft black and white scale is more trouble- some and it must be checked. It can be removed easily by hand, but I find the spray “Folidol” is the best I have used to control it. The ants appear to move this soft scale about the plants and after rain it seems to multiply very quickly. Cymbidiums are hardy plants and are not troubled much with diseases, but there are two which I must mention. Very little research has been done on Orchids in this country and we have not learnt much about their diseases in the last 10 years. Black rot is a definite ‘“‘killer” and you must act quickly to save any portion of a Cymbidium that shows evidence of being affected. I think black rot is caused by plants being subjected to damp cold conditions, being kept tco damp, too long. A rot starts in a cut rhizome or through a rotted root The flesh of the pseudo-bulbs and rhizome turns black and goes soft and the plant soon gets beyond aid. The number of plants affected this year has been greater than usual and you will recall the abnormal weather of last winter. ] am sure this is the reason for so many growers com- plaining of divisions of Cymbidiums rotting since last potting season. A good open compost and attention to drainage is the best insurance against this loss. The Cymbidium Mosaic or virus disease at- tacks the plants in a different way. Although not a “killer” like black rot, it checks the roots, stunts the growth and reduces the quality of the flowers. You will find it acts differently in certain plants. Possibly some Cymbidiums re- sist the disease more than others. A lighter green or yellow mottling, spotting or striping appears in the new growth and this is usually the first visible indication of its presence. It seems definitely proved to be a virus, but as to its origin or whether it is identifiable with other plant viruses is not established as yet. The experiments of the American pathologist, Dr. D. D. Jensen, in which he took leaf sap from a diseased plant and mixed it in the leaf sap of a number of healthy Cymbidiums, many of which subsequently showed that they had developed the disease, proves that the virus can be transmitted from one plant to another by inoculation. Aphids have been mentioned as carriers and I would include all leaf-sucking insects as capable of transferring the disease. On the face of the above, we should isolate Page 48 diseased plants, if any, from our collections. The cutting of pseudo-bulbs in making divisions could also be a means of spreading the. disease. But this does not answer one problem in potting. Many growers have divided and re- potted plants with care and pulled some apart where no knife was used. The cuts have been sealed with lime or sulphur and after some months the new growths in some pieces will appear clean and healthy and occasionally a growth will show signs of virus. If the disease has been lying dormant in the original plant one would expect the whole plant to be affected and that all the divisions would show signs of virus. Another observation: I have received over the years many pieces of Cymbidiums from other States grown in glass-houses. When re- ceived the divisions appeared to be perfectly healthy, but after being placed in sunny posi- tions in the bush-house many soon showed signs of mosaic in the leaves and consequently grew poorly. I have tried the reverse to this and placed diseased Cymbidiums under shady glass and after a season’s growing the markings on the leaves practically disappeared, the plants appearing in better health, but I am sure enemy “virus” is still lying dormant within. One or two growers here inform me they have effected a cure for the virus disease, but I think it is too early at this stage to say anything further. I have improved two “sick” plants myself, but would like to see another year’s growth before being reasonably sure of a permanent cure. You may find that after you have collected most of the best varieties of Cymbidiums and have flowered them year after year interest wanes just a little as one begins to notice the big gap in the months after flowering until the next flowering starts—at least six months. Your thoughts will turn towards some other genera that flower during this period of in- activity in Cymbidium flowering between November and May. This will mean a glass- house with an arrangement for heating it. After years of growing Cymbidiums many Orchid enthusiasts take the next step in build- ing a glass-house to try their skill at growing Cattleyas, Vandas, Dendrobiums, etc. They will find that the knowledge they have obtained in growing Cymbidiums will stand them in good stead with the glass-house culture. I do not propose to talk on glass-house con- struction, most growers have. different ideas on size, location, type, etc., but I will mention a few things that should not be overlooked. Build your house away from shade of trees or wall. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 buildings, see that it will not catch the shade of a neighbour’s tree that may grow taller in years to come—a glass-house in the shade is useless—use putty that will not crack in a year or two. Cover all vents top and bottom with fine gauze copper mesh wire to keep out all pests, including moths. I have a water supply installed so that mist sprays can be fitted under the benches. Call and get ideas from other growers who already have glass-houses; they will help you and probably tell you of their mistakes. The construction cost may deter some, especially the cost of heating the house. For a small house the latter can be kept down by installing the new blue flame kerosene heaters, they are excellent. Some growers just place them in the house anywhere, but I think if placed under the benches and the exhaust carried underneath the bench and piped up to the top of the house it makes a good heating arrangement. Ordinary 3in. downpipe can be used. So I built myself a glass-house to hold about 300 plants. It is long and narrow and facing the north-east, a lean-to type against a stone I filled it with ferns, mosses, foliage plants to create humidity, most important in the growing of glass-house Orchids, especially in the warm season. As I purchased Orchids I replaced some of the plants not required. My first choice was for Cattleyas. I always wanted to grow Cattleyas. I felt I was not an Orchid grower until I had grown some of the “Queen of Flowers” and, to my surprise, I found they were just as easy to flower as Cymbidiums and a lot less work. For Cattleyas I considered that I required a house with a minimum tempera- ture of approximately 55deg. F. in winter, then I should be able to grow some Vandas, hybrid Dendrobiums, Calanthe, Phalaenopsis, Miltonias and a few “Slippers” as well as tropical odds and ends. I soon found it difficult to purchase hybrid Cattleyas (B.C. §.L.C. and L.C.) in Sydney so I ordered some unflowered seedlings from England. They arrived in different stages of growth. I potted some in straight tan-bark, some in local Todea fibre and some in a mix- ture of both. All have grown well and I can- not say which compost produced the best growth. I water them, say, once or twice a week in the growing period and once a week during the rest of the year. With the Cattleyas I imported some hybrid Dendrobiums, namely, Gatton Monarch, A.M., Montrose, F.C.C., Gatton Sunray, Model, Rose Marie, Bali, i ae ee a ee AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 Yule, Ceylon Glory, etc., including unflowered seedlings. I potted them in similar composts to Cattleyas and they grew like weeds, the flowers making a great show. I found that the tan-bark compost, although the plants grow well in it, is too soft to support the tall leads and I am gradually re-potting them into fibre to give support and keep the plants upright. I also included some North Queensland Dendrobiums, namely, D. bigibbum var. Phal- aenopsis, D. superbiens, D. bigibbum var. Schroderianum and hybrids from these as well as several hybrids from Hawaii. These Den- drobiums flower through the autumn and win- ter and the flowers last several weeks. I push them along with plenty of water and a little manure during their short growing season and very little water when the plants are at rest. In fact, the dormant period of Cattleyas, Den- drobiums and Calanthes is rather tantalizing to a Cymbidium grower, the urge to give them a squirt with the hose more often than is good for their health takes some suppressing. I like growing Dendrobiums as they show results in big leads for good culture. Vandas are another favourite of mine. I Managed to’ start off with large plants of /. tricolor and V’. suavis, as they grow very easily under glass in Sydney and flower well; these two are good to practise on. Strap-leafed Vanda hybrids such as V. flammerole (V. coerulea x V. Luzonica), violet blue, and /. Gilbert Triboulet are well worth having, they flower at least twice a year for me. I have man- aged to import a number of seedling Vanda hybrids of V. Sanderiana and V. coerulea which are growing well, but have not yet reached the flowering size. The semi-terete types grow well, ut are harder to flower. The fully terete group such as /’. teres or V. Miss Joaquim are Very difficult to flower in Sydney under glass and I think I shall send mine for a ride up North. I pot Vandas in large pots with a very open Compost of crocks and large lumps of tree-fern fibre topped with Sphagnum Moss. The com- Post is kept moist all the year. /’andas take up a lot of space in a glass-house and their roots wander about, but they give the house a tropi- cal atmosphere. My house will look better when I capture a plant of Vanda Sanderiana— this one has evaded me. Now the lovely Phalaenopsis. 1 had to get a few of these with their long-lasting perfect flowers. I keep them down at the warmest end of the house, as they require heat and moisture, Page 49 but also shade. See that no direct sunlight through the glass shows on the leaves, as they will burn, and a Phalaenopsis without good leaves is in trouble. Try them in pots filled with crocks, lumps of old cow manure and tree- fern fibre. Place the plants near the edge of the pots so that the leaves may hang over the sides. This allows water to drain away easily from the leaf axils and prevents rotting. Hang the plants, if possible, away from pests. Water like Vandas and never dry out the compost. Half a dozen Calanthe (deciduous) hybrids have been included. Their foliage is attractive and their flowers last several weeks in winter. I grow them in 4 Cymbidium mixture and 4 cow manure in 6in. and 8in. pots. I give them plenty of water during the summer and prac- tically none after flowering, when the pseudo- bulbs go to rest. My house is beginning to fill up, but I had to include a few Miltonia hyb- rids. M. Velvet Charm, M. Woodlands, etc., are wonderful colours — red, scarlet and pet- unia. I grow them at the coolest end with extra shade. Some are in tan-bark, but I think fibre is better and does not hold moisture so long. I found they have a definite rest after flowering, so do not re-pot until root action starts. I also noted they do not grow much in the hot mid-summer months, but prefer cooler weather. Not too large pots, 4in. or Sin. are suitable for small plants. Try a few;+they take up very little space. Many flowers are perfumed and last several weeks. Cypripediums. I had quite a few of these, but reduced them considerably as I. think the house is too warm. I still have a few at the cool end with Miltonias, growing them in tan-bark straight. About February and March water must not be allowed to lie in leaf axils if buds are forming, as they may rot off. I tried a few Odontoglossums and Odontiodas, but they did no good as my conditions are too warm. I am sure a special air-conditioned house is necessary to grow these genera in Sydney. The house is now full, but I manage to cram in a few odds and ends. Oncidium vari- cosum on a block of tree-fern fibre and hung up. I tried this species in tan-bark, but the roots would not penetrate the compost—it may have been faulty tan-bark, but I keep to fibre now. Angraecum eburneum grows and flowers easily with the Vandas, affording it the same compost and watering. I also tried a few species from the tropics such’ as Rhyncostylis retusa, a small plant with pretty sprays that are pink and white. It flowers in December. Renanthera Page 50 coccinea has bright red flowers. Aerides Field- ingit and A. odoratum, which flowers at Xmas and is perfumed. Yes! glass-house growing is easy provided you have a buoyant atmosphere, plenty of light, high humidity in the growing season and keep pests under control. Pest control in a glass- house requires more attention than in a bush- house. Besides several different types of scale we get red spider, thrips, etc. Quite a num- ber of sprays are recommended, but I use “Folidol” as it seems to do the job. It also kills caterpillars. Care must be taken not to inhale too much and that it does not touch your hands or face. If you are troubled with slaters (wood bugs) a strong spray of “Rul- ene’ or a D.D.T. mixture three times a year on walls, benches and floor will keep them out of your house. “Take Cattleya, Dendrobium and Phalaenopsis flowers cutside before spray- ing the house. Not only has Cymbidium culture improved in recent years, but also glass-house culture. It was good to see such a wonderful collection of exhibits shown at the recent March meeting. It cannot now be said that we only grow Cym- bidiums in Sydney. The interest in the hobby is increasing greatly in many countries of the world, new societies are forming and the grow- ing of Orchids is becoming international. In New South Wales, particularly Sydney, the increased interest in recent years is amazing. Possibly the Orchid shows and the wonderful Orchid festivals in Sydney, staged by the Orchid Society of N.S.W. and affliated societies, have been a means of attracting more people into the hobby. During my term as President of the O.S. of N.S.W. I had the pleasure of meeting many keen Orchid growers from overseas, who all showed great interest in the hobby, appreciating anything we had to show them in Orchids or their culture. The hobby will continue to grow. I cannot see an end to the interest created in this country and overseas. The use of air freight has been a great benefit and when cur- rency restrictions are lifted and we can obtain plants at will from all parts of the world, fur- ther interest will be created. The growing of Orchids is a sufficient passport and an assur- ance of a warm welcome in most countries of the world. I wish all Orchid people the very best of good growing. , —59 Drumalbyn Rd., Bellevue Hill, N.S.W. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 © GENERAL PATTON v. STALIN.— The rules governing botanical and horticultu- ral nomenclature are very simple. When a name has been adopted and published it stands for all time. Botanists sometimes discover that a plant known under one name is not really entitled: to it as some one gave it a different name years earlier and therefore the priority rule comes into force. We may be irritated, but the rule must stand nevertheless, or confusion would be worse confounded. A_ beautiful Cattleya raised by Messrs. Black and Flory as the result of crossing C. Angus with C. Gloriette was named Cattleya x Stalin and re- gistered as such. This name was disliked by many people, and for fairly obvious reasons, so the raisers considered that C. x General Pat- ton was a better title. Alas! much as we might prefer this name, the fact remains that the rules admit of no alteration. “The whole story is unfortunate and complications arose when a full-page advertisement appeared in the De- cember, 1951, issue of the American Orchid Society’s Bulletin. This showed a portrait of General Patton in battle dress, with the words “The General Patton Story. In response to a request from Rivermont Orchids and Black and Flory, the Royal Horticultural Society has removed the name of Marshal Stalin from C. Angus x C. Glorietta and renamed it in honour of General Patton.” But, apart from the ques- tion of authority, Mr. Gurney Wilson, Chair- man of the Royal Horticultural Society Orchid Committee, and Lord Aberconway, President of the R.H.S., made it abundantly clear on January 8th, at a meeting of the Orchid Committee, that no such request had been received, and even if it had the request could not have been granted. Moreover, the advertisement itself contains two errors: Mar- shal Stalin instead of Stalin and Glorietta in- stead of Gloriette. Unfortunately, “Glorietta” appears on page 47 of Sanders List of Orchid Hybrids, but in all the numerous cross re- ferences the “a” gives place to “e.” The choice of a name for a hybrid Orchid or a garden variety of a chrysanthemum or rose is not a matter to be treated without due consideration, as the decision may make or mar its popularity once the name has been published—“The Mov- ing Finger writes; and having writ, moves on; nor all your Piety nor Wit shall lure it back to cancel half a Line, nor all your Tears wash out a Word of it.” What Omar Khayyam wrote in 1123 is still true. The Orchid Re- view, February, 1952, page 18.—E. Peckover, 44 Chandos St., Crows Nest, N.S.W. OOOO 2 | ] ] I a rR AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 Page 51 Tan Bark Its Composition and Acidity H. R. G. POATE (Dr.) ® As far back as September, 1939, there ap- peared in the Australian Orchid Review (Vol. 4, No. 3, p. 80) some ‘Analyses of Common Orchid Composts” carried out by Mr. L. C. Home, of Brisbane. Since then, tan-bark has become one of the most popular of media for composts, particularly in growing Cypripe- diums and Cymbidiums. Although I have en- quired and searched widely in the literature, I have been unable to find an analysis of tan- bark, but on mentioning it to my friend, Dr. Breyer, who is a member of the staff of the Faculty of Agriculture at the University of Sydney, he suggested that this could be done at the Soil Section of this Department, and he has now sent the following analysis, which I have tabulated to compare with those presen- ted by Mr. Home:— Organic Matter and Moisture .. sn C11) ea pe PTD Weraesitiiy Seine Ress ks eR se Otas nO ben omkctre ARE etal «ke Phosphorus meee eee Temegrmere | oe — they (E15 INS{O}))) SS Le ILTOSEN pe ne ee seta Satna eis cei asf ilica os See PT Ache a emt iD age ata (It was not practicable to obtain figures for the sulphur and phosphorus content.) DH et valucn aennt. See Aaah eet. DRA paki aie Percentages Fresh — Stag- Poly- Todea Osmunda Tan- horn podium bark O7n0 ween 200 97.96 96.89 96.75 1.32 0.98 0.44 0.17 0.15 0.14 0.07 0.03 0.12 0.11 0.02 0.09 0.16 0.89 0.14 — 0.02 0.08 0.12 0.16 0.10 1.20 0.29 0.44 0.88 1.36 1.59 1.13 0.91 0.74 0.38 — 1.64 0.45 1.20 6.1 4.99 3.77 — 4.26 Mr. Home gave the analyses of Staghorn Peat, Polypodium fibre, Todea fibre and Osmunda fibre, and the chief difference be- tween these and tan-bark is that the latter has a relatively high content of calcium and mag- Nesium with a low potassium content, but its PH is not nearly so acid. With regard to the PH value, however, this seems rather variable, as Mr. Birdsall has given me the figures from three different tanneries as it comes direct from the pit as “N” = 4.2, “F” = 5.2 and B” = 5.6 (see footnote). We then estimated the pH of some tan-bark which had lain out of doors for about six Months and this was found to be 5.3. In view of this finding that the acidity increases as time passes, the pH of newly mixed and a six Months’ old compost was investigated and con- tmed this observation, as the fresh mixture Mainly new tan-bark and leaf-mould) gave a DH of 6.8, whereas the six months’ old compost had become more acid and its pH was 6.1. This crease in acidity is due to the breaking down Of the glucosides in the tan-bark into oxalic and cther organic acids. The lesson to be learnt from this is that com- post should be made up for at least three months before use and that it is wiser to use, say, equal parts of old and new tan-bark, as the former will be all right for the immediate needs of the plants, whilst the latter will, in due course, increase in acidity and thus main- tain a correct balance. This procedure, as a result of practical experience, has been advoca- ted among others by Messrs. Slattery (A.O.R., March, 1947) and Birdsall (A.O.R., Septem- ber, 1949), whilst Dr. Vote (A.O.R., June, 1943) and Mr. Begg (A.O.R., June, 1946) both advised the use of “old” tan-bark as dis- tinct from the new. Mr. Home (A.O.R., March, 1939), in discussing the pH of com- posts, quotes, I think, Mr. Metcalf, of San Francisco (A.O.R., March, 1938), who states that for Orchids of the epiphytal type the optimum range is 5.75 to 6.0, whilst for the terrestrial type it is 6.75 to 7.0. Mr. Home re- fers to a fungus of the Rhizoctonia type which lives in symbiosis with the Orchid roots which functions best at pH 5.0 to 5.5 to maintain an acid compost. Dr. Jaede and Mr. Slade Page 52 (A.O.R., September, 1938) for this reason suggest maintaining a compost as near 4.8 as possible by the application of a “buffered” acid solution. A stock solution made by mixing 12 parts of glacial acetic acid and 41 parts of pure sodium acetate in 1,000 parts of water by using one ounce (2 tablespoons) to one gallon of water, and it is then applied to the compost around some plants once a week as an experi- ment. Personally, I feel that such a high acidity, although beneficial to Cattleyas and Dendrobiums, is not necessary for Cymbidiums or Cypripediums and prefer to aim at the ranges first mentioned in Mr. Home’s article. I may mention here my own experience with Cypripediums which were not doing so well as they should, so some three years ago I potted them in fresh tan-bark. They kept on much the same the first year, but the next year showed a very vigorous growth and increased flowering, presumably due to the rise in acidity and more readily assimilable organic and mineral matter from the ageing of the tan- bark, as all other factors remained the same, and the pH of cur Sydney water is neutral at 7 to 7.2, so would not affect the pH of the compost. It would seem that the best mixture for Cypripediums would be equal parts of fresh and old tan-bark with some Polypodium or Osmunda fibre as these have a relatively high acidity and would help to maintain a correct pH. For Cymbidiums I do not think we need such an acid compost, but as they are gross feeders some leaf-mould is essential, and they may benefit in the actively growing stage with occasional light applications of a liquid manu- rial solution. For Cattleyas and Dendrobiums the more acid fibres are necessary with perhaps a little tan-bark. In the No. 1 issue of A.O.R., January, 1936, Mr. P. A. Gilbert refers to the value of slaked lime in Orchid culture to overcome sourness in compost. This was before pH was thought of for composts, and it may have been that toc high an acidity was developed which was corrected by the alkaline lime. I have seen mention of the use of lime by other writers at various times and it must be confusing to amateur growers to know just how to regulate pH, but if the surface of the compost becomes ‘firm, dry-looking and green, lime wash will clear it. I notice Mr. Murray Cox (A.O.R., December, 1939) consistently advises the use of lime water for Cattleyas or other Orchids with much Osmunda or Todea fibre in their compost, usually about three months after pot- AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 ting and two or three months later he uses some manurial solution. I wish to thank Dr. Breyer and the staff of the Faculty of Agriculture for their help with the analysis and the pH estimation. Footnote:—The variations in the pH values of the tan-bark mentioned are probably due to the amounts of tan-bark and water used, and the time and method of mixing it for the solution to be tested. —38 Victoria Rd., Bellevue Hill, N.S.W. © “WILD ORCHIDS OF BRITAIN,” by V. S. Summerhayes. This is a most delightful book, written by the Orchid specialist of Kew Gardens. Probably few Australian readers were aware that no less than 50 species of Orchids are natives of the British Isles. Mr. Summer- hayes’s book is illustrated by 61 colcur photo- graphs (mostly of plants in situ) and 38 plates in black and white; the type and paper are excellent and it is astonishing that such a beautiful book, in these days of high costs, can be produced at such a moderate price. ‘The colour photographs are exquisite—a triumph of photographic art. As for the text, it is written in simple lan- guage that can be easily followed by any amateur; while the position held by the author, who is in charge of the famous Orchid collec- tion at the Kew Herbarium, is sufficient guar- antee of its reliability. “The first chapter, on “The Life History of the Orchid Plant,” should be studied by every lover of Orchids, irrespective of whether his interest is mainly on the aesthetic or the botanical side of the sub- ject. We cannot be too grateful to Mr. Sum- merhayes for this admirable book. —H.M.R.R., 19/4/52. ® QUEENSLAND ORCHID SOCIETY. —At the Annual General Meeting held on February 8, 1952, the following officers were elected for 1952-1953:—Patron, E. J. Beard; President, IT. C. Harveyson; Vice-Presidents (Metropolitan), J. P. McPhee, S. H. Phil- lips, R. G. Ferguson; (Country), A. Wilkie, T. J. Cotter, A. G. Cullimore; Honorary Sec- retary, S. H. Phillips; Honorary Treasurer, J. P. McPhee; Hon. Technical Adviser, Profes- sor D. A. Herbert; Hon. Editor, T. E. Hunt; Hon. Auditor, E. J. Beard; Committee, A. Bensley, C. O. Dunn, F. A. Farr, C. A. Hils- den, J. R. McGaw, E. Otley, G. L. Piper, ~ C. G. Williams. ge 53 Pa 1952 INE, My ARE EVIEW CHID R ALIAN OR ISTR y AL a a *speqod ssoloe sayour ft aZis [BINIEN ‘+407 ON “S39 ‘TS6T “MA “S’N suing ‘J, ‘1auMQO JO °S'O “OOH AHLOWOd 422 YAdIdANVS X WOIGIHNAO *‘jedas [esiop sso1oe sayoul ¢ 9ZIS [BINJEN “661 (ON ‘Say ‘auvaq “HO ‘19UMO “TS6I “AA’S'N J9 °S'O ‘ NHAMHVUANIO We AV IdO.LN X WOIdddIadAO ‘OOH "YOIA “Y Asaqinos fq ovoyg ‘jul WIA, “AA ‘19UMO “[S6T ‘MoYyg BSuridg pryd19 UBIIOJIA 943 3B wINIpadiiddD ysag ay} IOF azIIg puodag padtz0ay VANO.LOUW 22 VILINd & WOIdddIYAdAO *jedas [esiop SSOIDB soyour as 9ZIs [einen ‘T6l “ON ‘Say ‘Aayey “AQ “T92UMO “IS6T “AA'S'N J “S°O “OOH LAUVOUVW “92 VAVIOVIVE X WOIddAdIedAO Page 54 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 | CYMBIDIUM X NEVILLE CHAMBERLAIN Class 14—Best Australian Seedling: First Prize, O.S. of N.S.W., Orchid Festival, 1951. Raised and grown by N. L. Webster. Photo by W. Harris AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 Page 55 CYMBIDIUM X ADELE SANDER var. NARCISSUS Award of Distinction, 1950, O.S. of N.S.W. Owner: L. H. Newman, Reg. No. 176 Natural size, 44 inches across petals. ALAN R. BEGG 4, PACKING ORCHIDS President, The Orchid Society of New South (See page 57) Wales, 1949-1951 eons ne (LS 2B¥d 228) NOLIVANOAKG WOA SGIHOBO ONMOVA’s “eT EVIEW, JUNE, 1952 K AUSTRALIAN ORCHID k | | | eq AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 Page 57 Orchids for Export PETER BLACK © The ordinary man, wherever he may be in the world, who buys English Orchids can have very little conception of what takes place be- hind the scenes before he receives his plants. The Orchid nursery, such as we have in England, which specializes in the raising of Plants for sale in contrast to the establishment which raises plants in order to obtain revenue from the sale of cut flowers, is beset by Numerous problems—problems, indeed, which seem to have the habit of increasing with every Passing year. The main worry is, of course, to anticipate the market. It is no good embarking on a scheme of breeding if the result, after seven Years or so, turns out to be a flower of a shape Or of a combination of colours which is un- Popular, and there is very little to go by in forecasting what will be in’ favour seven years ence. At the present time, for instance, yellow attleyas are popular in some parts of the World and only mildly interesting to others. White Cattleyas with a coloured lip have been immensely popular in most parts of the United tates of America—and still are—but there is a trend to be observed where pure white Cattleyas—i.e., Cattleyas with white sepals and petals and a pure white lip—are being en- Couraged—possibly by people who have raised these and not whites with coloured lips. In the U.S.A., too, the red Odontoglossums and, perhaps, red Cymbidiums find few sup- Porters, but in Australia and New Zealand these colours are popular. The Orchid raiser, therefore, who is always on the look-out for something new, must cud- gel his brains with success or find very rapidly that he is a back number. It is very small consolation to a grower, to cross two very beautiful flowers, to raise suc- cessfully a batch of several thousand seedlings, and then, after years of careful cultivation, to discover that they are in disfavour because of some temporary unpopular pattern of colour. If, however, he negotiates this hurdle in safety and raises many crosses which turn out. to be desirable, he has still to face other problems. Political and economic motives force ccun- tries overseas frequently to raise barriers against the importation into their respective states of what may -be termed “luxuries.” These barriers may be simply tariff barriers or, worse than this, there may suddenly be an embargo placed upon live plants altogether. Sometimes the reason for this is given as “ohyto-pathological.” We English growers often feel that the phyto-pathological reason is introduced for other than phyto-pathological causes, and in cases like this it is very difh- cult to make any headway. There have been several outstanding cases in recent Orchid his- tory which have caused the English Orchid industry grave concern and grave financial loss, through the inspection and fumigation of Orchid plants, ostensibly to control potential diseases, but which have had the affect of kill- ing numbers of valuable plants—sometimes of irreplaceable specimens. Although cne’s sympathies must always be TMP. pera 1 Sia toseiy tle edt sei aby send eR SE Es reer eer THE KEY TO THE ILLUSTRATIONS OF PACKING ORCHIDS FOR EXPORTATION. 1. The plant, having been knocked out of pot and having had two or three days of gradual tying, is here being wrapped in tissue paper which is then bound firmly in twine. All the com- Post is left on the plant which acts as extra packing. The plant is partially dried for lightness transit by air, and because it will be healthier in eit her the extremes of heat or cold. Wood- Wool is best kept away from Orchid compost, hence the tissue paper. 2. Prepared plants being placed in a cardboard carton with “ball-end” at the ends of the Carton, and leaves carefully interlaced in the centre of the case. Note the wooden strut hold- ing the plants firmly down at the nearer end of the case. 3. Cases packed, before the lids are shut down. Note the struts, woodwool and interlaced €aves. These boxes will stand a very great deal of handling without ill-effect to the plants. 2 Cases destined for Australia through India are having a final canvas “overcoat” pulled on. his is in two halves and when both are in position, they are sealed with the wide adhesive tape. 5, The canvas “overcoat” being sealed with adhesive tape. This renders the case insect and Isease proof to accord with the regulations enforced by India and Pakistan through which territories the consignment will pass. Otographed at the Black and Flory Orchid Nursery, Slough, Buckinghamshire, England. Page 58 with the importing country which insists that importations should be free from disease or insect pests, it is small consolation to lose plants and be unable to obtain retribution, financial or ctherwise, through their destruction. It has been, perhaps, significant that the imposition of strict regulations on the importation of live plants has been placed by authorities of coun- tries that are full of the very diseases which the authorities are attempting to exclude. With the advance of air transport and the improvement in the comfort of aeroplanes from the point of view of the passenger, the sending of perishable cargo by air has increased enormously even since the war. Pressurized compartments for air cargo have rendered the exporting of live plants a very safe procedure, but, again, the human element itself comes into the matter ence more, and however much the exporter is assured that his shipment will be cared for, nay cherished, by the air-carrying company, there is always a risk, albeit a small one in most cases, that the box of plants being transferred from one aircraft to another will be left just for that hour which is sufficient to do the damage, in the boiling sun or in the below-zero freezing cold. There is practically no risk nowadays of plants being damaged while in flight, thanks to the enthusiastic co- operation of the air companies. Because of this co-operation, and because of their careful handling of consignments of Orchid plants, these are now packed in what at one time would have been regarded as much too flimsy containers. It is not generally realized that at the present time, one can travel by air from London to any part of the world in seven days, except, of course, to those countries behind the “‘ferriferous drapery.” English growers send plants to nearly fifty different sovereign states each year. Their most important customer, from the point of view of number of plants and cf value, has been for many years, and still is, the United States of America; but Australia runs very close in- deed. The list of places to which Orchids are sent makes very romantic reading and, perhaps, the layman would be puzzled to know why Orchids are sent to the very places from which their species were derived, such as Colombo and Costa Rica; Borneo and Malaya. There is no knowing from whence inquiries will arrive, and we often wonder how they grow Cattleyas in Fiji or in Trinidad—one of these days we intended to go and see. —C/o Black & Flory, Slough, ‘Buckinghamshire, England. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 SPRING ORCHID SHOWS (1952) The following Orchid Societies and Clubs will hold their Annual Shows during August and September :— Hornsby-Kuring-gai Orchid — Society.—Soldiers’ Memorial Hall, Killara, August 9th. Eastern Suburbs (Sydney) Orchid Society—sSt. Stephen’s Hall, Bellevue Hill, August 16th. Western Suburbs Orchid Society——Police Boys’ Club, Deane Street, Burwood, August 29th and 30th. Parramatta and District Orchid Society.—City Hall, Parramatta, September 4th, 5th, 6th. Eastwood and District Orchid Circle—Masonic Hall, Rowe St., Eastwood, September 5th and 6th. Mosman Home Gardeners’ Association—Town Hall, Mosman, September 5th and 6th. North Shore Orchid Society—TYown Hall, Chats- wood, September 5th and 6th. Sydney Orchid Club—TYown Hall, Marrickville, September 20th. St. George Orchid Society—Palais Grande, Rock- dale, September 27th. Earlwood District Orchid Society—VYown Hall, Marrickville, September 27th. Orchid Club of South Australia—Liberal Club Hall, Adelaide, September 15th, 16th, 17th. Victorian Orchid Club—Town Hall, Melbourne, September 9th, 10th, 11th. Orchid Society of New South Wales—Town Hall, Sydney, September 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th. Illawarra District Orchid Society——St. Michael’s Hall, Church St., Wollongong, September 6th. Newcastle Orchid Society—City Hall, Newcastle, September 18th, 19th, 20th. ® ORCHID CLUB OF SOUTH AUS- TRALIA.—At the Annual General Meeting, held on February 7, the following officers were elected :—Patron, The Premier, Hon. I. Play- ford; President, L. H. B. Hudd; Vice-Presi- dents, F. H. De Rose, E. Ford; Committee, Dr. M. E. Chinner, Dr. T. L. McLarty, R. J. Langdon; Hon. Secretary-Treasurer, H. C. England. ® GUIANA FORESTS.—“‘In some parts of these forests I saw the Vanilla growing luxuriantly. It creeps up the trees to the height of thirty or forty feet. I found it difficult to get a ripe pod, as the monkeys are very fond of it and generally took care to get there before me. The pod hangs from the trees in the shape of a little scabbard.’—-C. Waterton (Wander- ings in South America). / URE eee eae ee a Men AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 Page 59 Gleanings from Overseas Orchid Periodicals A. R. PERSSON © It is with some elation that we observe the Progress we make in overcoming our difficulties while coaxing our Orchids to prosper and flower. If our plants do a little better this year than last year, we feel we are achieving some- thing. One way of accelerating this progress is to closely study, as well as circumstances permit, the overseas literature. The American Orchid journals, particularly, are generous in their disclosures of new techniques and frank in their iscussions. You cannot urge tco strongly upon the Orchid Clubs or Societies of which you may be a member that they should endeavour to maintain their libraries up-to-the-minute. The American Orchid Society publishes a monthly bulletin free to all members at home and abroad. The subscription to the Society is Seven dollars. The Orchid Digest, published by the Orchid Society of California, is also Included with the membership fee of four dollars, published six times per annum. Pacific Orchid Society of Hawaii, Honolulu, publishes a bulletin quarterly, subscription two dollars a year. There are also other Orchid Societies which publish less ambitious literature. The German Orchid Society at Hamburg Publishes Die Orchidee. Last but not the least we have the English The Orchid Review issuing monthly. Casting a wandering eye over the pages in Tecent issues cne may be startled by the novel and unexpected. Let us take the June, 1950, Merican Orchid Society’s Bulletin where Mr. tthur Stockdale writes an interesting article °n “Growing Orchids Without Ventilation.” Ow you and I have always been taught that ne essential is adequate ventilation. All books and writers are unanimous on this. It took a Mexican to question the wisdom of ventilation. “Ir. Stockdale’s reasoning is simple and Straightforward. In effect, he says “why go to the trouble to provide a moist atmosphere, just Nice and ‘buoyant,’ if you then open the ven- tilators and let it all out. You let in the dry 41r which has to be humidified to go the same Way as the nice buoyant air you had before.” Mittedly it does not make much sense. The SParrows do not appreciate the nice buoyant atmosphere we had gotten together in the glass- Ouse with a lot of trouble. So why let it out? ow, Mr. Stockdale is not unmindful of the fact that without ventilation there would be no movement of the air among the leaves of the plants and as the leaves must have car- bon dioxide to manufacture carbon and as there are only about four parts of carbon di- oxide to every 10,000 parts of air, we must provide movement of air. So he installed a fan. Following out his reasoning, he concluded that if he circulates the air indefinitely the air would have its carbon dioxide content ultim- ately exhausted. To overcome this problem he lights plain tallow candles. If we burn one- third of an ounce of tallow or paraffin we pro- duce enough carbon dioxide for 500 Cattleyas for 24 hours, according to Mr. Stockdale. He says there is no difficulty in maintaining a rela- tive humidity of 80-100 per cent. if we keep the ventilators closed. He usually managed to keep the temperature down to 90-100 degrees F. with proper shading. There seems to be a catch. Mexico City is as near the equator as is Cloncurry or Hughen- den in Queensland (lat. 19) and, similarly, 200 miles from the coast. Encyclopaedia Brit- tanica tells me that Mexico City has a mini- mum winter temperature of 35deg. F. and maximum summer temperature of 80deg. F. It happens to be located 7,500 feet above sea level, hence its relatively low summer heat. Still, 80deg. F. is warm enough to make an unventi- lated glass-house pretty hot. Seemingly water- sprays and fan and proper shading combine to prevent the temperature “seldom rising above 90deg. F.” Mr. Stockdale thinks that in places where the house would become too hot if fully closed it may be necessary to do a certain amount of ventilating; but only during such hot and limited periods. He is of the opinion that if the air were en- riched with carbon dioxide as much as twice or three times the normal amount the effect on the plants would be beneficial and growth would be promoted. In fact, he has done it by five-foldine the carbon dioxide content of the air. His 500 Cattleyas and thousands of seed- lings have prospered. Now, this story seemed too fantastic to the Editor of the Bulletin to permit of publication until verified. However, the Editor, journey- ing to Mexico City to look-see, verified every- thing and waxed enthusiastic over the new Page 60 ideas. He found that the Cattleyas were grow- ing healthily, were bigger and better than those grown under conventional conditions. The light intensity was uncommonly high. He thought that the plants can make better use of carbon dioxide if light intensity is high and that, similarly, the plants will tolerate high temperatures if the humidity is correspondingly high. The Stockdale glass-house is 35ft. x 26ft. and the fan, driven by 3 H.P. motor, is moun- ted on an end wall. The air current was notice- able at the opposite end of the house. Several other growers have experimented with the Stockdale System in California with, apparently, excellent results. Ponder over de- tails in issues December, 1950, January, 1951, and August, 1951. This gives food for thought, especially in our inland towns where it is difficult to provide adequate humidity whilst ventilating on the old style. A.O.S. Bulletin, May, 1951, contains an instructive article on the art of growing our Queensland Dendrobium Phalaenopsis. The time to shift this Dendrobe to a new pot is when the new growth is a few inches high, in late spring. At any other time there is a dis- turbance to the mature roots which is very detrimental. The author also deals with the art of watering Orchids in general. He under- lines the oft repeated axicm that it is more important to know when not to water than when to water. Let us agree that far more Orchids are ruined by too much water rather than too little. This also applies to the lovely Dendrobium. It likes a lot of sunlight with very little shading even in Miami, U.S.A. He does not omit to remind the reader about the weekly (and weakly) application of some liquid nutriment until the cane is nearly fully grown. Yes, some food for thought. Gravel culture of Orchids, especially Cattleyas and Phalaenopses, has exercised the minds of many overseas growers. Frequent re- ferences occur in Orchid literature on the various aspects, especially the nutrient solu- tions required, the degree of acidity, etc. The A.O.S. Bulletin has published several thought- provoking articles. With more experience on the practical side, we may safely assume that for commercial exploitation of Orchid grow- ing for flower production, culture in the medium of a suitable gravel will prove profit- able for the enterprising. American investigators frequently delve deeply into the mysteries of chromosomes and their influence on the breeding of new desir- AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 able types of hybrids. This subject should be handled with circumspection. I would prefer to skate around it lightly here. It would take an article in itself to do justice to it. We shall hear a lot more about chromosomes before we are much older. At no point is science likely to make such strong impact on the future of Orchid growing as in the hybridizing and that means chromosomes and their behaviour. Of course, chromosomes are not peculiar to Orchids. Nearly all living things are con- trolled by them. If you are itching to shake hands with the chromosomes and burn some midnight oil there are books on the subject dealing with chromosomes of the exotic as well as the homely. Leafing through a recent copy cf the A.O.S. Bulletin I came upon an article by a corres- pondent who successfully propagated Phalaen- opses by cutting up flower stems into pieces so that each piece would have a “node.” These pieces were then washed in a solution of bleach- ing powder to kill would-be germs prior to placing them on agar in flasks exactly in the manner you would plant Orchid seeds accord- ing to Knudson’s method. The node begins to develop and a plant appears. So very simple. Phalaenopses are slow to propagate, vegeta- tively, so I promptly tried this new technique. However, in a few days a lovely crop of moulds appeared, indicating that I had made a mis- take somewhere. I shall try again. The January, 1952, 20th Anniversary num- ber of the A.O.S. Bulletin is a magnificent publication. A great variety of subjects are treated interestingly. Some are reprints from earlier issues as befits an Anniversary issue. They are still as useful and entertaining as they were when first printed. No less than 125 pages of useful information on most of the main topics. Let me pluck just one—‘‘Shading’ of Orchid Houses,’ by Mr. Jack Sweet. He is critical of spraying shading washes on the outside of the glass. Such shading washes off with rains, so you never know what amount of shade you have at any particular time. Further- more, it comes off unevenly—a most annoying habit. Outside paint or wash becomes dirty and dusty and therefore absorbs heat from the sun. The glass becomes hot, which heats up the atmosphere inside the house—another an- noyance. However, he is all for paint shading provided it is applied on the inside of the glass. The glass with a coat of white paint on the inside becomes a huge mirror reflecting the heat back from the glass instead of absorbing it. It is claimed as proven that the difference AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 In inside temperature is 5-10deg. F. if the paint Is on the inner surface instead of the outer. He Tecommends some white house paint with a touch of green tint for deeper shade. Natur- ally, he leans towards roller blinds of wooden slats as the best of all shading devices. Perhaps I should explain that Mr. Sweet hails from Sunny Florida. Personally, I favour metal mesh Or gauze. Placed on the outside the metal Wires intercept as much as 25-70 per cent. of the beating sun’s rays according to the nature of the wire gauze or its size of mesh. It lasts well and is easily removed. In the same issue, Mr. Herbert Hager (San Tancisco) writes interestingly about methods of shading glass-houses. Especially an idea of Placing laths at two levels, one over and one under a spacer alternately. Thus, the greatest amount of shade is at mid-day with the sun Nearest zenith, and less shade earlier or later aS sun is at a lower angle. A recipe for the production of flowers from nthuriums every second month throughout the years appears in Orchid Digest, Nov./Dec., 1951, written by L. F. Hawkinson, M.D., Tom information furnished by the famous Anthurium specialist, Mr. Keith Shaffer, topical Gardens, Santa Cruz, California. eep your Anthuriums in the warmest part of your glass-house. Night temperature prefer- ably near 70deg. F. with minimum ventilation, unless humidity is up. When the stem grows tall wrap Sphagnum Moss around it to en- Courage the two roots which appear with each caf and flower. They require more shade than, Say, Cattleyas. In its native jungle habitat nthuriums will stretch into a semi-climbing Mode of living 6in.-Sin. between each leaf with Its pair of roots. From time to time we read in American Orchid magazines about the more or less suc- Cessful method of growing Orchids indoors in ardian cases.” ‘Chis is the American way of growing them in large glass cases in the Sunny window of the house or flat. Since Vrehids require a more humid atmosphere than 'S normally found in a dwelling, the Orchids are placed in a large glass case provided with ‘acilities for ventilation and creation of hum- idity. In cold districts heating in winter pre- Sents a problem usually solved by a small electric lamp or heating unit. This maintains 4 desirable warmth on a cold winter’s night. \ window must be chosen giving adequate sun- ight and provided with convenient facilities She shading. In the older types of houses a large ay window” should make a suitable spot if Page 61 divided from the room by a glass partition in- corporating a door for easy access to the plants from inside. Orchid Digest, July-Aug., 1950, presented an article by Sidney J. Bracey on ‘Feeding Orchid Plants.” Heavily scientific, it takes you deeply into the mysteries of the building up of a plant by assimilation (or, more correctly, metabolism) of a great variety cf elements. It tells us that our darling Orchids consist to the extent of 95 per cent. of carbon, hydrogen and oxygen, which are obtained from the air, water and growing media. Fancy that. It leaves only 5 per cent. for us to do anything about. Not much scope for our fertilizers or stimulants which we are diligently compounding to pro- vide nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulphur, iron, etc., in relatively large quantities being “major elements” accord- ing to Mr. Bracey. To this we have to add the “minor” elements too numerous to mention. (We rarely need to worry about those “minor” elements, since they are usually present in adequate quantities as impurities in the com- post and water we use. Mr. Bracey gives us plenty to think about in a concise manner. However, the article is most suitably read in the early morning, since it requires a degree of nimble-mindedness un- less you feel comfortably at home in this fascin- ating subject. For you and me it may be very helpful if we only extract the one fact that we can do no more by fertilizing than help the plant to: find a small part of the 5 per cent. that goes to build a plant and its flowers. So the heavy hand is out of place. Evidently he approves of the warnings given the tenderfoots by the old-timers “go slow, son, go slow.” His own deterrent is “proceed with caution.” We will probably agree with Mr. Bracey. Although he writes of Orchids, he (like most Americans) probably means Cattleyas. How- ever, there are some Orchids that just revel in good firm chunks of cow manure—the “din- kum stuff.” In fact, I would despair of pro- ducing Phalaenopses, Vandas and Thunias without making chunks cf cow manure one of the principal ingredients of their diet. The best blooming Dendrobium nobile I have seen in recent years had cow manure heaped upon it. Still, I agree with Mr. Bracey “Proceed with caution.” The German DIE ORCHIDEE, April- June, 1950, contains a very striking article by a Swiss, Mr. Gubler, on the sterilization of Cypripedium seed. Is the cat out of the bag? Or, at least, one of them. Whilst Dr. Knud- Page 62 son’s method has been entirely satisfactory for the raising of seedlings of Cattleyas, Cymbi- diums, Dendrobiums, Vandas, etc., it is well known that the “Slipper” just won’t co-oper- ate. It is equally well known that a few growers are producing new “Slipper” crosses prodigiously. It would appear that the secret has been well kept. Gubler shows how to get “Slipper” plants to grow on agar. That is something. The problem may yet be how to persuade the young plantlets to sprout roots when transferred to the community pots from the agar. There has been a strong suspicion that the failure of germinating “Slipper” seed was caused by the usual method of washing the seed in a solution of bleaching powder prior to planting on the agar. Mr. Gubler has had good results by using iodine or bromine in place of bleaching powder. He recommends :— iodine, 30 grams; potassium iodide, 60 grams; distilled water, 900 grams. Let the solution stand for 24 hours to dissolve the chemicals. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 This solution keeps almost indefinitely. Take 6 c.c. of this solution and add 1000 c.c. of distilled water as your sterilizing solution, using it within three weeks. No damage occurs to the seed if it is immersed as long as a couple of weeks. However, 10 minutes usually suf- fices (except Odontoglossums, which may need a full week’s immersion). Shake as usual to remove air-bubbles that may have become en- trapped. The bromine treatment is very simple. Use a strength of .05 per cent. up to .08 per cent. It will keep up to three weeks. Perhaps it would be appropriate to mention that Dr. Knudson, in A.O.S. Bulletin, August, 1943, says that native Cypripediums scorn sugar as a nutrient. They insist on glucose or fructose. The foregoing are bits and pieces taken at random from overseas. current literature. If you find it interesting, see what your Society’s library has to offer. —7 Coronation Ave., Mosman, N.S.W. THE ORCHID SOCIETY OF NEW SOUTH WALES 1952 PRESENTATIONS THE WINTER (Cypripedium) SHOW Y.W.C.A., 189 LIVERPOOL ST. (Opposite Anzac Memorial) MONDAY, 30th JUNE, 1952 Open 12.30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Admission: Adults 2/-. Children 6d. a The Floral Spectacle of 1952 THE SYDNEY ORCHID FESTIVAL SYDNEY TOWN HALL (MAIN HALL) SEPTEMBER 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th, 1952 TUESDAY, WEDNESDAY, THURSDAY and FRIDAY Glorious displays in District Exhibits. 100,000 Blooms on show. Acknowledged the greatest Orchid Exhibition in the World, John Davis, Hon, Secretary. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 Page 63 A Visit to Messrs. Charlesworth & Co. Ltd. E. PECKOVER © This firm is situated about two miles from aywards Heath Station, which is 38 miles tom Victoria Station, one of London’s great Tailway termini. On entering the drive, if it were not for the tm’s name embodied in the design of the Massive iron gates, one would be inclined to think of a gentleman’s country estate: park- like grounds with broad gravel walks bordered Y trees. The nursery is hidden from the road- Way and consists of 22 houses each 100 feet ong. It was on’ Mr. Rothwell’s, of McBean’s Orchids Ltd., suggestion that I made a special Point of seeing this establishment, as he told me it is considered to be pre-eminent for Odontoglossums and their related hybrids. I think T was a little fortunate here, inasmuch as a friend of my sisters knew the Managing Airector, Mr. Ellwood, very well; he apolo- Rised for not being able, owing to illness, to © the honours personally, but had given in- Structions for me to be looked after. I met the nursery manger, Mr. Bradley, Who very kindly showed me round. He proved to be a most interesting and knowledgeable 8uide. Since I saw him he has been elected a Member of the Royal Horticultural Society tchid Committee. In addition to the Odontoglossums already Mentioned, cne can see here Miltonias, attleyas, Dendrobiums and Cypripediums, to- Rether with a few Lycastes and Cymbidiums. In one house I saw Cattleyas in all stages of &towth, from seeds in flasks to plants five years old; after that age they are transferred to ‘ncther house. I could not help remarking Upon the very evident well-being of the plants, and was told there were two things always to € borne in mind in the cultivation of Cattleyas, firstly, the compost must be firm in € pots, worked in with the fingers, not Straight down, but from the rim to the centre and Must be very firmly finished off in top Tessing by using a hardwood pointed potting Stick. ‘The other point was water. Always use rin water, this is really essential to get the st results, and water between the pots to “nable the leaves to breathe the condensed Moisture through their pores. As a matter of act, all Orchids should have rain water, but 1S 1s not always practicable. The best blooms ae fetch from 12/6 to 15/- each, according to quality and season. , There were two houses of Odontoglossum crispum with about 3,000 plants in each. The spikes of blooms are all staked and tied with raffia and, according to the nature of the growth, these stakes are upright or more or less at an angle, but all the plants are placed in such a position that all buds face due south, in consequence of which, when the flowers open they all face one way and if you could see, as I did, dozens of these plants in bloom you would realize what a wonderful show they made. I was told no two of these plants throw identical flowers; there is a difference some- where; it may be extremely small, but never- theless it is there. The spikes of flowers are not cut until the last bud to open has been opened ten days; they are then sold to a retail florist at 5/- per bloom and the demand cannot be satisfied. I also saw plants of Odontioda (Odonto- glossum x Cochlioda); Odontonia (Odonto- glossum x Miltonia) ; Oncidioda (Oncidium x Cochlioda) ; Vuylstekeara (Odontoglossum x Cochlioda x Miltonia) ;and Wilsonara (Odon- toglossum x Cochlioda x Oncidium); all in bloom and very beautiful they were. If any- one is interested in growing either of these genera it was suggested by Mr. Bradley that Odontioda would prove of great interest as the range of colours runs from pale pink to cardinal red and maroon. A plant that particularly caught my eye was Miltonia Nyasa var. gattonense x Reine Eliza- beth, the blooms being at least four inches across, but unfortunately Miltonias are no good for cut flowers, they do not last off the plant. Vuylstekearas are exceedingly difficult to raise, few pods being fertile, and Mr. Charlesworth made many hundreds of cross- ings before succeeding in raising any plants at all. —44 Chandos St., Crows Nest, N.S.W. ® HOBART ORCHID CLUB.—At the Annual General Meeting, held on March 27, the following officers were elected :—Patroness, Lady Cross; President, E. G. Vince; Vice- Presidents, Mrs. A. R. Park, F. W. Chilvers; Honorary Secretary, A. Cruickshank; Hono- rary Treasurer, IT. L. Richardson. Page 64 CALIFORNIA CYMBIDIUMS INC. © Mrs. Clarisse M. Carlton, 624 Arrcyo Drive, San Diego-1, California, U.S.A., writes :— “Feeling quite certain that your Cymbidium growers in Australia would be very interested in the new organization formed here for the primary purpose of \properly grading Cymbi- dium flowers that are sold on the market, I decided to write this letter of explanation. “With the growing popularity of the Cymz- bidium as a commercial flower, and the decided increase in Cymbidium growing for that pur- pose, it has become increasingly important that some standard system of grading should be developed. This is for the benefit of all con- cerned in the business. With the ‘hit or miss’ method of marketing Cymbidium flowers here- tofore employed, an individual engaged in ordering or selling never knew what quality he would be working with—price would be little indication, of ccurse, due to the market fluctuation and quantity of flowers available. Quotations from individual jobbers would vary greatly, but there would be no standard to judge by. “Because of the obvious benefits to be de- rived, CALIFORNIA CYMBIDIUMS INC. has been formed. This is a non-profit organiza- tion consisting of progressive growers for the market who are ready to abide by the grading system and will support the group. Only those wholesalers and commissicn firms who sub- scribe to the grading principle as set forth by the organization will be franchised to handle the labelled material—they will, in turn, popu- larize the trade name of CALIFORNIA CYMBIDIUMS INC. “The grading is set-up as follows: PRE- MIUM (carries a blue label), will measure a minimum of 44 inches across the circle, have sepals and petals at least 1 inch wide and heavy in substance. EXTRA FINE (carries red label), a minimum of 4 inches in diameter, with sepals and petals + inch or over, substance heavy. SELECT ‘(carries maroon label) a minimum of 34 inches in diameter, with sepals and petals 4 inch or over, substance good. DISPLAY (carries green label), this includes flowers not qualifying for the other three grades. They must have fair substance. “Tf two-thirds of the flowers on a spike meet a certain grade the entire spike goes into that grade. Colcur is not considered in grading— since that is regulated by demand. It can readily be seen that when a prospective buyer requests quotations on any Grade, the persons AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 involved will have a complete understanding of the picture. “Personally, I feel this is truly filling a long felt need. I also believe that the Australian Cymbidiums would benefit by a grading sys- tem also. Since your flowers come into the North American market during a time when our flowers are not blooming, why couldn’t a satisfactory arrangement be worked out be- tween the two points so as to benefit all con- cerned ? “Additional information may be obtained by writing to the above address.” @ Mr. Bruce Hogg in his article on Awards published in the March issue of A.O.R. is in doubt as to the voting by the Orchid Com- mittee of the R.H.S. on this matter. The following is an extract from information very kindly supplied to me by the Secretary of the R.H.S.— “No award may be recommended to a plant unless at least six members vote in favour of the recommendation. No First Class Certificate may be recommended unless the number of votes cast in favour of the recommendation is at least three times the number cast against it, and no other award may be recommended unless the number of votes cast in favour of the re- commendation is at least double the num- ber cast against it.” —E. Peckover, Crews Nest, N.S.W., 5/4/1952. ® THE FRONT COVER: Cymbidium x Louis Sander var. Kirribilli is a bold and colourful variety which gained an A.M., O.S. of N.S.W., in 1945 for Messrs. C. C. Hilde- brandt and TI. Burns. Sometimes a weakness appears in coloration, due to faulty culture probably. Long before the buds are ready to open the raceme should be protected from direct sunlight, as the action of the sun’s rays has a tendency to impart a rusty tinge along the edge of the sepals in particular. When flowered perfectly it is a very attractive Cym- bidium. The plant is robust and free growing and altogether is a useful and desirable variety. The illustration is of a raceme on a plant shown by R. F. Leaney which won first prize in Class—5, Best Cymbidium shown by a Novice, at the O.S. of N.S.W. Orchid Festi- val, 1951.—P.A.G. ® HOBART ORCHID CLUB ANNUAL EXHIBITION will be held in the Town Hall, Hobart, on September 3 and 4. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 Page 65 THE SHEPHERD PRESS ANNOUNCE TWO UNIFORM NEW BOOKS ON ORCHIDOLOGY by P. A. Gilbert | Editor “The Australian Orchid Review THE CHARM OF GROWING ORCHIDS Second Edition (revised and enlarged) If you intend to take up the cultivation of Orchids as your favourite recreation it will be necessary for you to first read “The Charm of Growing Orchids.” In pursuing a new and strange pastime it is essential to have an easy introduction as well as genuine guidance. This book incorporates both these features, and is the only complete guide within the reach of the Australian beginner. We have no hesitation in recommending this revised, enlarged, and up- to-date edition. Once you have read it you will embark on the hobby with the confidence that you will make a success of it. ; The Book contains 237 pages of text, nine photographic plates of representative horti- cultural varieties, and 12 line drawings illustrating important points in the cultivation of Orchids. The binding is full cloth with a pleasing dust jacket. The Amateur Orchid Grower's Handbook On sale at all leading booksellers. Price 36/-. (postage extra) Ca ORCHIDS Their Culture and Classification The Author has dealt with a wide variety of subjects designed to put the general grower, the botanist, or the specialist on the right track at once. We believe that this Book will meet the needs of all those who are interested in Orchids, either as a horticultural hobby, or as a scientific study, as well as assisting those concerned in raising Orchids as a commercial undertaking. A special feature is a Part devoted to the Clalssification of Orchids which should be of great assistance to the student of Australian Orchidology, a feature never before published in book form. This should also appeal to the foreign botanist as the Key to the Tribes and Sub- Tribes is printed in Latin, the universal language of Botany. The Book contains 252 pages of text, 16 photographic plates and a frontispiece in colour. The binding is full cloth with an attractive dust jacket. A Presentation work. On sale at all leading booksellers. Price 42/- (postage extra) THE SHEPHERD PRESS. Yurong Street, SYDNEY, N.S.W. / SR i tn EE TO NEI NE Page 66 Marcel Lecoufle, France. Kian Kee Garden, Malaya. Cattleyas. Standard Nursery, India. Catalogues and Price Lists sent on application. Visitors welcome at Nursery. Ring Phone 2385 Classified Advertisements Minimum 2 lines, 5/-; and I/- per line afterwards. WANTED TO BUY.—Australian Orchid Reviews. Vols. 1 to 15 complete. Davis, 27 Kent Av., Elwood, Victoria. ® THE GLASS-HOUSE, LARGE OR SMALL? The very small glass-house is com- paratively much more expensive to build and much more difficult to manage than the large one. In the large glass-house there are less sud- den fluctuations in temperature, humidity, con- densation and other conditions than there are in the small one, which are great advantages in maintaining healthy Orchids.—P.A.G. © ORCHID EXHIBITIONS.—Spring is anxiously awaited by Orchid lovers, not only for the displays of flowers in their own Orchideries, but also for opportunities of in- specting the fine exhibitions organized by the Orchid sccieties in the capital cities of Aus- tralia. These exhibitions, together with subur- ban shows, are centres of education for Orchid growers, who are advised to attend one of these comprehensive displays during August and September. Announcements appear throughout this issue. eecHien a Werte Gril NaTey Caan N. Tropical Orchids (Reg.) 342 Sheridan St., Cairns, N. Qld. Queensland agents for: G. A. de Jong, Holland. Specialising in hybrid Vandas, Phalaenopses, Dendrobiums, and AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 re Q. ORCHIDS ANTHURIUM — CALADIUM MARCEL LECOUFLE I. Rue de I'Eglise BOISSY-ST-LEGER— S & O. FRANCE PHONE No. 79 VISITORS INVITED INDIAN ORCHIDS Five reasons why you should obtain your re- quirements from us:— 1. Good quality backed by good name. 2. Prices and terms most competitive. 8. Innumerable testimonials to prove the excellent condition of the plants on arrival whether booked by Parcels Post or Air, 4, Reliability endorsed officially—you can check this up with the Indian Embassy in your country. 5. Special and most elaborate arrangement for collec- tion in all parts of India, including the remotest part. Hence many choice varieties can come to you first hand only from us, COMPLETE LIST AND PARTICULARS UPON REQUEST THE STANDARD NURSERY (Regd.) P.O. Kalimpong, Dist: Darjeeling, India. —E AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 Page 67 TERRA COTTA ORCHID AND NURSERY POTS “DOONSIDE” BRAND Scientifically designed from specially selected clays for the propagation and nurturing of ORCHIDS, SHRUBS, BULBS and NURSERY PLANTS of all types, incorporating the following improved features :— %* Strongly constructed. % Adequate drainage hole. * Clean edges. %* Manufactured in range of sizes, 4”, 5 6”, Sie 10,” i”, LN * Saucers supplied to match. Stocks currently available. Full particulars and prices from sole suppliers to the trade. a nc el Es | | | | | | MAXWELL PORTER & SON LTD. 107 REDFERN ST., REDFERN, N.S.W. MX1323 — MX3157 SUPPLIERS OF AUSTRALIAN TERRA COTTA PRODUCTS FOR OVER 50 YEARS. Se Te ee / = eS = Page 68 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 C YM Payee > BACK-BULBS, SMALL PLANTS AND*FLOWERING PLANTS TO SUIT ALL TASTES ALL ARE HYBRIDS ALL ARE DESIRABLE VARIETIES INSPECTION INVITED ON SATURDAY AFTERNOONS AND SUNDAYS A. A. L.. MewIlELIAMS (Agent for Shead’s Orchids) 3-5 CHELMSFORD RD., WENTWORTHVILLE, N.S.W. Phone UW8587 LOCATION: Follow Western Highway from Parramatta for approx. 24 miles, then branch off at Old Prospect Road Junction and take 4th turn on left. ORCHID EXCHANGE (Regd.) FOR (L. M. & W. F. Tierney) Tan Bark, Leaf Mould, Cow Manure, Tea Tree, Pots, and Orchid Growers' Sundries. IMPORTERS & EXPORTERS GROWERS PAINTER & STARKE CASTLE HILL NURSERY (Regd.) 3 PEMBROKE ST., CAIRNS, N.Q. Phone UW2551 Sensational News for Orchid Growers CARBAMIDE It's a tonic. It is beneficial to all Orchids Just watch them grow. 2lbs. or 3lbs. would be sufficient for 12 months for an average collection. Price 7/6 per Ib. Add postage. Obtainable from Write for particulars ny O R K M E R 19) D I lf H FITZPATRICK AVENUE Tel. XW6143 FRENCH'S FOREST, N.S.W. eee ee a ; ' y } C. ANGEL ISLAND Cc. Nathalie Dekens x C. Estelle alba—an excellent textured clear white flower d ; : Ge in the throat. Appropriately, we have named this lovely cross Angel Isl P in the glistening white throat). with a faint dab of yellow and (an island of yellow Auinehwunfoweredesect! Peek = Bake verNe a aieret eka emit a2.00 HISTORY OF ANGEL ISLAND: An : ~ ‘ : a ; : set Tsland is the largest island in our sparkling San Francisco Bay. Many people received their first im- 1849 ae of the United States from this lovely island. Angel Island served as immigration headquarters from 0 1941 and here newcomers from the Pacific and the Orient first felt the impact of their new life. E. W. McLELLAN CO. Box 289R, San Francisco 25, California ORCHID EXpeee, GROWERS ORTERS—IMPORTERS—HYBRIDIZERS QUANTITY DISCOUNTS Page 70 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 High-class showy Orchids! Delivered free by Air Mail! Do not send payment in advance, pay after you have received the plants 1n good condition. Collection of showy Orchids in Dendrobiums, Cymbidiums, Coelo- gynes, Vandas, Cypripediums, £34 for 100; £19 for 50; £10/10/- for 25; and £6/10/- for 12 large and healthy plants of full flower- ing size. Double Gerbera seeds, selected strains. 8/- per 100; £2 per 1000. Single Gerbera seeds, best mixed, 6/- per 100; £1 per 1000. 12 pkts. Lilium seeds in different varieties, including Auratum and Speciosum, £2/5/- Complete lists on Cattleyas, Laelias, etc., free THE UNITED FORAL CO. 81 Miles, Kalimpong, India CYMBIDIUMS BY HODGINS Finest varieties, including Award Winners. Also good Hybrid varieties for the new ‘Grower. For Lists write: — HODGINS ORCHIDS P.O. BOX 108, FRANKSTON, VICTORIA The Nursery is situated in Baden Powell Drive & Canning St., Mt. Eliza ee sce ee | | | a NI A AS AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 Page 71 MINERAL SALT FERTILISERS DRY POWDERS supplied. Recommended for use weekly or fortnightly. : MINERAL FERTILISER (MISSOURI). | Ib. prepares 28 gallons of watering liquid. Price, 30/- per |b., post 2/6. MINERAL FERTILISER (OHIO). | Ib. prepares 80 gallons of watering fluid. Price 15/- per |b., post 2/6. KNUDSON'S AGAR (Formula "'C") A. PREPARED READY FOR INOCULATION. Flask quantities only. Rates on request. B. READY MIXED KNUDSON'S AGAR (DRY). Add water and sterilise. Compounded to give final pH 4.8—5.0. 37 grams, sufficient for | litre, 15/-. (Post 2/6). 4 |b. sufficient for litres, 40/-. (Post 2/6). INOCULATION OF SEEDS ONTO AGAR is undertaken at the rates of: £1 per half dozen, £1/I5/- per dozen. £9 per half gross, of Culture vessels inoculated. Witeariie CASUARINA (oak leaf) mould, 5/- corn bag ROTTED WOOD, 10/- per sugar bag RIVER SAND, 3/6 per sugar bag CHARCOAL, 10/- per sugar bag Delivery can be arranged Call or write W. J. BENNETT 83 EVELYN ST., SYLVANIA, N.S.W. ORCHID PLANTS WANTED All Varieties Preferably in Spike From Single Plants to Collections FRANK’S ORCHIDS 364 VICTORIA ROAD DRUMMOYNE Telephone WA1678 BLACK 185 OXFORD ST. (at Taylor Square), SYDNEY, N.S.W. Phone: FA7462 ORCHID COMPOST IN SACK LOTS | Full Sack 3 Sacks 6 Sacks City—delivery arranged. Country—on rail. COLIN R. HAMILTON Cymbidium Orchid Specialist Compost & Pottery Manufacturer 133-135 HAWKESBURY ROAD, WESTMEAD (near P.O. and Railway Station) Phone: UW8430 Notice to Advertisers Pe All enquiries as to Advertising space should be addressed to the publishers: AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW SHEPHERD & NEWMAN YURONG STREET, SYDNEY THE HERBAL HOME OF INDIA OFFER A COMPLETE RANGE OF Orchids, Bulbs and Lilium Seed _ Wholesale Lists and full particulars from J. E. JONES, "LIMBERLOST™ FRESHWATER, CAIRNS, N.Q. (Australian Agent) Also available: A good range of Australian Native Orchids. Page 72 Orchids AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 Orchids We have a fine collection of all varieties of Orchids, including Cymbidiums, Dendrobiums, and many other Anthuriums, etc. miscellaneous and glasshouse _ plants, Inspection cordially invited any day (Sundays excepted) JOHN BISSET ORCHIDS In all kinds Seedlings and mature plants Catalogue free on application MARCEL LECOUFLE 1. Rue de I'Eglise BOISSY-ST-LEGER S & O FRANCE Visitors always welcome GLADIOLUS (F. Rockwell). Illust. 16/9. Post. 6d. BETTER ROSES (A. S. Thomas), Col. Plates, 19/6. THE BOOK OF THE GERANIUM (J. E. Cross). YOUR WINTER GARDEN (S. B. Whitehead). CACTI (J. Borg). Illust. £38/7/6. Post 1/6. ORCHIDS AND THEIR CULIVATION (Sanders). Catalogues free. Books on Orchids PICTURES WITH FLOWERS (J. Clements). Illust. 15/9. Post 8d. ORCHIDS AND HOW TO GROW THEM (A. ©. Willoughby). Illust. A.B.C. OF ORCHID GROWING (J. V. Watkins). Illust. AMERICAN ORCHID CULTURE (E. A. White). Col. Plates, HOME GROWING ORCHIDS (R. Northen) Col. Plates. £2/9/3. Post 1/- ORCHIDS ARE EASY TO GROW (Logan and Cosper). Col. Plates. Col. Plates. NURSERY — Phone WAI124 PRIVATE (Evenings) JA8906 Agents for the “Australian Orchid Review” in Great Britain Messrs. B. F. Stevens & Brown Limited, New Ruskin House 28-30 Little Russell Street LONDON, W.C.1 are carrying stocks of current and back numbers of the Australian Orchid Review. Readers in Great Britain should communicate with them regarding their supplies. Post 9d. ’ ORCHIDS, THEIR CULTURE AND CLASSIFICATION (P. Gilbert). Illust. £2/2/-. Post 1/3. YOUR VEGETABLE GARDEN (V. Stevenson). Illust. 13/8. Post 8d. Col. and B.W. Plates. £1/1/-. Post 8d. £1/10/-. Post 8d £1/9/9. Post 6d. Post 1/- £2/19/8. Post 1/-. £1/12/-. £2/18/3. Post 9d. £1/1/-. Post 6d. NATIVE ORCHIDS OF NORTH AMERICA, NORTH OF MEXICO (D, S. Correll). Illust. ORCHIDS FOR AMATEURS (TT. W. Briscoe). Illust. 10/9. Post 6d. ATLAS DES ORCHIDEES CULTIVEES (J. Constantin). 1000 figures in colours, French Text. £6/10/-. A CULTURAL TABLE OF ORCHIDACEOUS PLANTS (J. M. Cox). Col. and B.W. Plates. AUSTRALIAN ORCHIDS (W H. Nicholls). Comprising 25 parts to be published over 13 years, 24 col. plates in each part, Part I and II now ready. Price £7/10/- each. Orders booked, ORCHIDS OF THE OUTDOOR GARDEN (A. W. Darnell). Illust. £3/18/7. Post 2/-. THE WILD ORCHIDS OF BRITAIN (Jocelyn Brooke). ORCHIDS, THEIR DESCRIPTION AND CULTIVATION (C. H. Curtis). Ilust. Also, 10,000 new and second- hand books on Botany, Natural History, Early Australia, Art, Fine Literature, ete. Scientific Instruments, Magnifiers, Microscopes, ete, N. H. SEWARD PTY. LTD. 457C BOURKE STREET, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA. MU6129 £4/6/9. Post 2/3. Post 9d. £4/4/-. Post 1/6. £13/1/6. Post 2/6. £4/18/-. Post 1/-. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 The Orchid Society of N.S.W. Meets Last Monday: Y.W.C.A., Liverpool St., Opposite Anzac Memorial, Sydney MON., JUNE 30th MON., JULY 28th MON., AUG. 25th Patron: His Honour JUDGE H. fF. MARKELL, Lawrence Ave., ‘Turramurra. President: JOHN BISSET, 8 Brisbane Street, Lindfield. Phone: JA8906 Hon. Secretary: J. C. DAVIS, 16 Jarrett St., Campsie Hon. Treasurer: L. A. PEATY, 684 Forest Road, Bexley. Phone: LW3108 Hon. Editor: P. A. GILBERT, 37 Colin St., Lakemba, The Queensland Orchid Society Meets Second Friday: Miniature Rifle Range Building, Boundary Street, Brisbane FRI, JUNE 13th FRL, JULY 11th FRI., AUG. 8th Patron: E. J. BEARD, Esq. 207 Cavendish Rd., Coorparoo, SE2. President: T. C. HARVEYSON, “Mildura,” Dorrington Drive, Ashgrove, W.3. Hon. Secretary: S. H. PHILLIPS, G.P.O. Box 2002X, Brisbane. Hon. Treasurer: J. P. McPHEE, Carmody Rd., St. Lucia, $.W.1., Brisbane The Victorian Orchid Club Meets ‘Third Monday: The Independent Church Hall, Collins Street, Melbourne, at 8 p.m. MON., JUNE 16th MON., JULY 21st MON., AUG. [8th President: R. VICK, 32 Northcote Ave. Balwyn, E.8 Phone, WF2365 Hon. Secretary: J. R. McARTHUR, 24 Somerset Rd., Glen Iris. Phone, WM1314 Hon. Treasurer: G. HAND, 36a Weybridge St., Surrey Hills. Phone, WEF2894. The Orchid Club of South Australia Meets Royal Society Rooms, Institute Building, North Terrace and Kintore Ave. Adelaide THURS., JUNE 5th THURS., JULY 3rd THURS., AUG. 7th Patron: The Premier, Hon. ‘T. PLAYFORD, Norton Summit. President: L. H. B. HUDD, 30 Davenport ‘Terrace, Wayville. Hon. Secretary-Treasurer: H. C. ENGLAND, 31 Angas Road, Lower Mitcham. The Orchid Society of Western Australia Meets Fourth Friday: Perth Bowling Club Rooms, Esplanade. FRI., JUNE 27th FRI., JULY 25th FRI., AUG. 22nd President: J. HAMMOND Hon. Secretary: F. 8. FARRANT, 22 Stirling Highway, Claremont Hon. Treasurer: W. E. BARNES, 36 Stirling Highway, Nedlands. WM3246 The Hobart Orchid Club Meets Fourth Thursday, 8 p.m.: Public Library, Hobart. Patroness: Lady Cross. President: E. G. Vince. Hon. Secretary: A. Cruickshank, 72 Tolosa St., Glenorchy. paarielarishepnerd & Newman Pty. Ltd., Yurong St., Sydney, N.S.W. Wholly set up and printed in Australia by the P o P. A. Gilbert, Hon. Editor. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, JUNE, 1952 Armstrong & Brown Proprietor: Clint McDade. Manager: J. L. Humphreys. TUNBRIDGE WELLS ENGLAND Solicit enquiries for COMMERCIAL AND EXHIBITION ORCHIDS Unflowered and Flowered plants of all types available. Splendid vigorous stocks raised from the finest parents. ValsStl ni OERSS ee GeO ERED AAS eae ENAVelaIpEeD A personal visit to our greenhouses will demonstrate the hrgh standard of culture maintained. CZ» Armstrong & Brown ORCHIDHURST, SANDHURST PARK, TUNBRIDGE WELLS Cables: Orchid, Tunbridge Wells. Telephone: Southborough 276 aE Cd ‘Fev PUBLISHED QUARTERLY VOL. 17. No. 3 PRICE 3/6 SEPTEMBER, 1952 BRASSOCATTLEYA X GATTON LILY (greatly reduced) THE OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE ORCHID SOCIETY OF NEW SOUTH WALES, THE QUEENSLAND ORCHID SOCIETY, THE VICTORIAN ORCHID CLUB, THE ORCHID CLUB OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA, THE ORCHID SOCIETY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA, AND THE HOBART ORCHID CLUB. 7 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 OINGEBDs of Quality * C. H. DEANE PARK and GREEN STREETS, GLENBROOK NEW SOUTH WALES Telephone Glenbrook 481 Dn OG CREO Regetak SLOUGH, BUCKS., ENGLAND SSO We have a limited number of FLOWERED Cattleyas, FLOWERED Cypripediums and FLOWERED Cymbidiums for sale and are able to despatch to Australia throughout our winter, due to our proximity to London Airport. We do not at present issue a catalogue, but lists of plants will be willingly sent to enquirers. Please state in what genera interested. We do not sell community pots or small plants. a ——— Se ee FE AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 Special Announcement to Orchid Enthusiasts John Bisset has pleasure in announcing the publication of a Book on Orchid Culture which is an invaluable aid to Orchid enthusiasts. ORCHIDS FOR EVERYBODY by R. Bruce Hogg Over 200 pages with 32 pages of Illustrations Price 25/- (Post 1/- extra) JOHN BISSET 8 Brisbane St., Lindfield. QUALITY IN ORCHIDS CYMBIDIUMS (hybrids) Including Finest Varieties @ Inspection Invited on any day by arrangement L. H. NEWMAN 80 Provincial Road, Lindfield SYDNEY, N.S.W. Tel. JM2803 jon! te ees eee sere ent Mee eyt ee eS PRIVATE (Evenings) JA8906 NURSERY — Phone WAI124 FLANDRIA LTD. BRUGES B* BELGIUM Thousands of mature and flowering- sized Cattleya, Brassocattleya, Brasso- laeliocattleya, Laeliocattleya, Potinara, Sophrolaeliocattleya available. CYPRIPEDIUM hybrids for first class cut flowers. CYMBIDIUM: The collection of 5,000 plants previously advertised is now sold. However, we are in a position to offer Cymbidium seedlings of excellent par- entage and in large quantities. e Bank Drafts for plants now obtainable from your Bank. Special offers and Lists airmailed free on request. FRANK SLATTERY, 12 Eddystone Road, Bexley, N.S.W. PHONE: LX2985 cordially invites all Orchid Lovers to inspect his stocks of Dendrobiums, Cattleyas, Vandas, Cypripediums and various genera suitable for bush and glass house culture. Aladdin Glasshouse Heaters. Pots, labels and compost. Darlton Spray Guns: 1 Pint size, £2/18/6; 1 Quart size, £3/3/0 (plus freight). Always on hand one of the most comprehensive steck of Award and Show varieties in Australia. 6 Beginners welcomed and every assistance given $$$ Page 73 pGckaegten ceases. QUALITY ORCHIDS AT BARGAIN PRICES Shown above are thousands of large plants which were divided after the Blue Moun- tains bush fire of last December. As will be seen these well developed plants are coming along famously. Thousands more of small plants which resulted from back bulbs are also available but not shown in the above photograph. Call at “Greenacres” and take your pick of the following true bargain prices. All plant will be eventually named and worth pounds more than prices paid. 6 Pots £1 Is. Od. 8” Pots £2 2s. Od. 10” Pots £3 3s. Od. Roy Deane’s Orchid Book now available. Write for free copy RAO) ID TE AN IN| 1B AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 “Greenacres”—Valley Heights, On the Lower Blue Mountains Remember at “Greenacres” a child can buy Orchids with complete safety IS Ss ee re a ea GSS sane enemas ae a AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, ODONTOGLOSSUMS ODONTIODAS and allied genera in great variety are available to you from the CHOICEST STOCK IN THE WORLD HIGH QUALITY MODERN HYBRIDS in a wider colour range than exists in any other generic group of orchids NO LESS THAN 47 AWARDS BY THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY SECURED BY OUR ODONTOGLOS- SUMS AND ALLIED GENERA SINCE 1948 We shall have the pleasure in quoting you in these or other genera on advice of your requirements to CHARLESWORTH & Co. Ltd. Haywards Heath, Sussex, England For the finest ORCHID INIBISILD'S in all genera Specialty of: Cattleyas and allied genera Vandas, Phalaenopses Miltonias, Odontonias and Odontoglossums — Australian clients can obtain our Catalogue from L. Giles, Carlingford, N.S.W. VACHEROT-LECOUFLE BOISSY—SAINT—-LEGER Seine et Oise, FRANCE Cable: Vacherot—Boissy St. Leger Seine et Oise, France Phone: Boissy St. Leger 42 VISITORS WELCOME 1952 Page 75 INDIAN ORCHIDS By Air or Sea. Direct from our Nurseries Cymbidium, Cypripedium, Dendrobium, Vanda Coerulea, etc. We stock all the best kinds of horti- cultural and botanical Indian Orchids. Write for place your order immediately for the our catalogue now, and Indian Autumn (November approxi- mately) delivery. G. GHOSE & CO. Townend, DARJEELING, INDIA ORGHIDS In all kinds Seedlings and mature plants Catalogue free on application MARCEL LECOUFLE “1. Rue de lEglise BOISSY-ST-LEGER » S & O FRANCE Visitors always welcome TREMORVA ORCHIDS Good quality Cymbidiums at reasonable prices. SURPLUS STOCK SALE ‘Inspection Saturday Afternoon, Sundays only. Country enquiries and orders receive prompt attention. TREMORVA ORCHIDS 24 Murray St., Lane Cove, N.S.W. Off Ralston St., near Mowbray Road. JAS5I06 Page 76 : AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 SHEAD’S ORCHIDARIUM Stok A SEASONAL ANNOUNCEMENT Of interest to all Orchid enthusiasts. The Orchidarium is now open to local visitors, country clients, and all those interested in the growing cf Orchids. ‘This season promises to be our best as all our Champion Cymbidiums are showing every indication of surpassing our previous efforts in the quality and excellence of our spikes and blooms, the growth and bulb develop- ment being superior in every respect. We have now completed all our building operations which include modern ‘Tea- rooms, and other conveniences for our customers, such as seating accommodation, and full protection from rain and stormy weather. Due to the elevated position of Shead’s Orchidarium, several Look-outs provide an unsurpassed panoramic view of the surrounding suburbs. Immediately below the Look-outs native shrubs, trees, and other ornamental vegetation help to form a rest- ful scene. Country, Interstate, and Overseas Orchid enthusiasts will enjoy inspect- ing this leading Show place for Orchids. There is not anything like it in Australia. Spend a Saturday or Sunday amid beautiful Orchids in a superb environment. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 ‘Page 77 MODERN SEED-RAISING PLANT | The completion of one of the most modern and complete laboratories for raising seedlings of all varieties of Orchids has been accomplished. The Orchidarium’s Lab- oratory is built of plate and commercial glass throughout. We have been particu- larly fortunate in being able to engage Mr. Van de Brun from England, who also has been occupied in Orchid culture in Holland and India, to manage this industry for us. The wide experience of this expert will be available for answering inquiries with regard to seedlings, and all communications should be addressed to him personally, c/- of Shead’s Orchidarium. Here in the Orchidarium you will be able to examine seeds being raised under exactly the same methods as those in use in Holland and the U.S.A. LABOUR DIFFICULTIES HAVE BEEN OVERCOME Owing to the many difficulties associated with building operations, the general shortage of labour, and our inability to secure suitable clerical assistance, we have been unable to answer hundreds of inquiries about Orchid culture received from our numerous clients all over Australia. This shortcoming has now been completely rec- tified. By writing to Mr. J. O’Brien, c/- Shead’s Orchidarium, all inquiries in future will be answered immediately. Our floral display is now in progress and will terminate about the end of November. Do not fail to visit the Orchidarium during this period. Open every day in the week from from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. The Orchidarium carries large stocks of all accessories to Orchid culture— composts, pots, labels, etc. The beginner or advanced grower will find it very convenient to buy at Shead’s Orchidarium. SHEAD’S ORCHIDARIUM 105 HOMER ST., EARLWOOD, N.S.W. Phone: LL3591 LOCATION Shead’s Orchidarium | is six (6) miles from Sydney, and is situated on top of the hill just over the Cook’s River Bridge at Undercliffe on the Earlwood tramline. A regular and frequent tram service from Sydney to Earlwood stops at the entrance to the Orchidarium. Visitors travelling by rail should alight at Marrickville Station, then take the tram, alighting at the third stop after crossing the Cook’s River Bridge. Motorists pass over the Marrickville Rail- way Bridge, following the tramline to the top of the hill at Earlwood. Page 78 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 BUSINESS AS USUAL “orchids t 0 the U.S.A. We are the original pioneers and largest consignors of cymbidium blooms throughout the world. Our system of packing, merchandising and consign- ing is recognised in the United States as the best. We collect regularly during the season. RELIABILITY, SERVICE AND SATISFACTION WE PAY HIGHEST PRICES AND CASH! CONTACT US EARLY. a a G. Mie re (Cale e 172 HARROW ROAD, KOGARAH, N.S.W. ‘Telephone LW3502 Volume 17 SEPTEMBER, 1952 No. 3 US 1S Lane at The author of each article is responsible for the facts and opinions expressed therein. | Contents | ARTICLES Asymbiotic Raising of Orchid See Dain C. Breddy - 99 Awards, O.S. of N.S.W. - - - - - - - $8 Award, V.O.C. - - - $2 | Bulbophyllum in Saget The Genus—H. “M. R. Rupp (Rev.) - 97 Cultural Notes—P.4.G. - $2, 88, 94, 96 Cymbidium Potting Mixtures—T. “H. ante - - - 84 Cymbidiums, The Cultivation of—H. B. Jamieson (Miss) - - 87 Editorial—Orchids in the Springtime - - - - 80 —O.S. of N.S.W. Winter STG The - - - - 80 . —Front Cover, The - - - - - 80 Genetics, or Just Plain Chance?—J. N. Rentoul - - - - 85 Gravel Culture of Cattleyas, The—W. A. Service - - - - 83 News and Notes - - - 86, 88, 94 . Orchid Growing on the Blue Menten N. $.W.— iP, H. James - 81 | Orchids Shows during September - = - 82, 97,98 | Potting Receptacles—Large or sa ?—P, A. Gilbert - - - 95 | Vandas—J. S. Berge - - - - - - - - 93 ILLUSTRATIONS ‘ | Brassocattleya x Gatton Lily - - - - - Front Cover Cymbidium x Arabella var. Maenintent - - - - - - 89 Cymbidium x Cyzara var. Remembrance (colour) - - - - 91 Cymbidium x Swallow var. Soulangeana_ - - - - - = 90 Cypripedium x Thule var. The Globe - - - - - - $9 Dendrobium aemulum - - : - - - - 92 Miltonia x Lycaena var. perpen andl - - - . - - 91 Miltonia x Woodlands var. Bellevue - . - - - - 91 Phalaenopsis x Reve Rose var. Balmoral - - - - - - 89 Sarcochilus Hartmannii - - - - - - - - - 92 Vanda coerulea var. Wondabah - - - - - - - 89 Personnel Hon. Editor: P. A. Gilbert, 37 Colin St., Lakemba, N.S.W. Associates QUEENSLAND: VICTORIA: SOUTH AUSTRALIA WESTERN AUSTRALIA: TASMANIA: Trevor £. Hunt R. Vick R. J. Langdon A. C. Dawson F. W. Chilvers 15 Challinor St. 32 Northcote Av. 8 Regent St.,_ 50 Bay View Tce 1 Lassuade Ave. Ipswich. ~ Balwyn, E.8. Millswood Mosman Park Sandy Bay Articles, photos, and drawings are invited, and may be forwarded to any of the above gentlemen, for publication in the Australian Orchid Review, SSS Site nner rca tinct emis mcenca mn tt rent erry ts 6. While the Proprietors of the Australian Orchid Review endeavour to assure the reliability of their advertising, neither the Proprietors of the ‘‘Australian Orchid Review” nor the affiliated Orchid Societies can assume responsibility for any transactions between their advertisers and their readers. Subscription Rates: Australia and New Zealand, 12/6 per annum; Overseas, 12/6 sterling per annum. Post free. Payable to Shepherd & Newman Pty. Ltd., Yurong St., Sydney, Australige ‘ps sted sa, ¢ bd ¢ a tt f , a ~. Page 80 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 Editorial ® ORCHIDS IN THE SPRINGTIME :— September, with its increasing warmth and sunlight, brings forth that visible floral and vegetative activity for which the highly imagin- ative Orchid lover has patiently awaited throughout the winter months. In a small collection of Orchids the grower is able to calmly meditate on events from day to day, but if he has a large collection too many im- portant things seem to happen at the one time, especially if there has been a lack of pre-con- trived planning. Fortunately, however, the great majority of Australian Orchidists are not tied down rigidly to the calendar as is the case with Orchid growers in colder and less favour- able climates. Generally speaking, the Aus- tralian climate allows much more latitude in the seasonal handling and care of Orchids. Flower buds are developing or bursting into flower and soon there will be an array of colours that will please even the most fastidious colour sense and the ardent admirer of floral beauty. Tasks in the Orchidery will be full of interest, but at the same time they will have their entanglements. Buds will require atten- tion in the way of keeping them dry to guard against spotting and other disfigurements caused by an excess of water. New shoots will need nursing to prevent surplus water from lodging about the tender leaves, which has an influence in bringing about their damping off. Flowers will demand watchfulness in avoiding splashes of water from resting on them to stop blemishes which usually occur if water is allowed to remain until it dries away. These precautions, however, are a part of the hobby, the successful production of flowers being the reward of vigilance. Springtime is the period when much Orchid life is reviving from a state of ‘apparent in- action, and it has now become customary to celebrate the vernal season with displays of flowers, consequently, the opportunity to in- spect the splendid exhibitions organized by the leading societies in Sydney, Melbourne, Bris- bane, Adelaide, Perth and Hobart should not be neglected. hese exhibitions should be the points of attraction for beginners in Orchid culture to gain first-hand knowledge of the de- sirable varieties to grow, as, in many instances, awards and prizes are adjudged on a competi- tive basis. These major exhibitions have a national, if not a world-wide, reputation for the mag- nificence of their Orchid displays, the societies that organize them looking forward to that generous support of their members which has always been forthcoming in past seasons. A timetable and advertisements of September ex- hibitions and shows appear on other pages.— P.A.G. © THE O.S. OF N.S.W. WINTER (CYP- RIPEDIUM) SHOW reached a climax in its display of Cypripediums at the Y.W.C.A. Hall, Sydney, 30th June, 1952. The flowering season coincided with the date fixed for their exhibition. Never before has such a collection of quality and quantity been assembled. The response by members was splendid, which en- abled the Show Committee to stage its most successful winter presentation. Under the en- thusiastic leadership of the Marshal of the Show, Mr. F. Slattery, and ably supported by his lieutenants, the general arrangements were carried out smoothly. It happened that the First Prize group (Mr. L. Sasso) was staged at one end of the hall, while the group that was placed second (Mr. L. Giles) was staged at the other end. In ordinary circumstances this adjustment would have evened up the dispersal of the attendance, but on this occasion it was ineffective owing to the density of those present. A scheme of ‘‘one- way” traffic would have made the inspection of the exhibits more enjoyable for the on- lookers, even if going “round and round” caused a sensation of giddiness. The alternative is the engagement of a larger hall. During the evening, the President, Mr. J. Bisset, briefly addressed the gathering on the objects of the Society in promoting these ex- hibitions, the Secretary, Mr. J. Davis, follow- ing with an announcement of the Prize and Award winners, which were also published in the monthly Bulletin (July), together with a short report on the proceedings. Details of Prizes and Awards will appear in the Decem- ber issue of this Review for record purposes.— P.A.G. ® THE FRONT COVER: Brassocattleya x Gatton Lily is pure white in colour and its “dazzling beauty” won for it the First Prize for the Best Cattleya at the Victorian Orchid Club Spring Exhibition, 1951..The exhibitor was Mr. G. E. Floyd. The picture is by cour- tesy of Mr. R. Vick, President, V.O.C. . | | | ] , OOOO eee AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 Page 81 Orchid Growing on the Blue Mountains, N.S.W. T. H. JAMES © When I decided to make my home at Hazelbrook on the Blue Mountains, I had Many misgivings concerning my Orchids. From Sea level at Longueville to 2,300 feet up meant a very big change of environment, but I am appy to say that my misgivings were un- founded. My experiences, successes and failures ~ may be of interest to those residing in similar localities and possibly induce some of them to embark on this fascinating cult. When I first came to live here permanently I installed a boiler to heat my glass-house, but after one year’s experience abandoned it. Firstly, the house was all glass—roof, sides and ends—and I found it impossible to main- tain a heated condition as the heat radiated through the glass too quickly. Secondly, coke Was practically impossible to obtain. So I dis- carded the furnace. For the first three years the seasons were Normal, that is, the spring came in with Sep- tember and the summers were hot, but during the winters the temperature was often in the upper thirties or lower forties and on one Occasion dropped to 18 degrees, but more about that later. _ All my Orchids, including Cattleyas, flour- ished so well that, on one occasion, I was able to make a considerable individual exhibition of Orchids in the local village hall in aid of the Red Cross Society. Among the plants shown Was a Cattleya with 20 large white blooms, the exhibit including Cymbidiums, Cypripe- diums and Dendrobiums. Then the seasons changed; summer dis- appeared and winter lasted nearly the whcle year, with so much rain—up to 100 inches— that the continued cold and lack of sunshine Tetarded the Cattleyas. to such an extent that New growths did not commence until January Or later, and so they could not mature before the short days of official winter set in. They Ccntinued to go “down hill” and it became Obvious that I would have either to dispose of them or devise some means of inducing early Spring growth. Installing a furnace again was Out of the question, so I built a large frame of Wood with a glass top. Each night throughout the winter I placed in the frame a lighted hur- Ticane lamp. The temperature in the frame Never dropped below 50 degrees, even when the ground outside was white with frost. Most of the Cattleyas have improved, some particu- larly well, from which I have had many flowers. In the first years of my residence here Den- drobiums grew well and flowered profusely, but in the last three years, although growth was good, flowering generally was very poor, probably due to the lack of warmth and sun- shine, particularly during the autumn. The summer just passed was a return to earlier conditions, including hot days, seven months of drought and tragic bush fires which this time missed me, so I am hoping that my Dendrobiums will return to their old free flowering habits: The high altitude has not affected Cym- bidiums, which grow and flower well. Cypri- pediums were a surprise to me. Although in winter the temperature is frequently very low, they have flourished and flower abundantly. Of course, I have had my failures. Some Miltonia hybrids brought with me from Syd- ney soon gave up the struggle. Several Miltonia species flourished, but later went “down hill” due, I regret having to admit, to neglect. An Anguloa steadily deteriorated until last winter it was placed in the frame and growth has improved. Lycastes and Oncidium varicosum var. Rogersii do reasonably well. Oncidium x Golden Shower grows so luxuriantly that each lead produces three to six new growths every year, most of which I remove. Strangely enough Vanda teres grew fairly well and flowered re- gularly twice each year until the present. I grow it right against the glass facing the north- west and each winter move it into the centre of the house. Last winter I forgot to do so and a very heavy frost nearly settled it, but it - is now recovering. Among other genera which do well with me without artificial heat are Coelogyne cristata, Phaius, Odontoglossum grande, Stanhopea Weardii, Zygopetalum Mackayi and Bletia hyacinthina. The Bletia is in the open garden, having extended to a clump of over three feet in diameter. It receives no attention whatever, grows luxuriantly and flowers profusely. I have two only Odontoglossums which just existed until placed in the frame in winter, since when they have improved and flowered. Regarding that morning—in July some years ago—when the temperature dropped to Page 82 18deg. F., I had about 30 plants of Thunia Marshalliana, alba and Boltonii. ‘They were well protected and placed at considerable dis- tance from the frost line, yet they all died, and so did many plants of Vanda coerulea and ’ Coelogyne speciosa. With regard to Cymbi- diums, the leaves were so frozen that, if bent, a piece just broke off. Flower spikes on which the flower buds were out of the sheath were mush, but where the buds were still inside the sheath they were not harmed, nor were the bulbs, except an occasional old bulb which de- veloped black patches. Cattleyas and all Orchids in the glass-house were not affected. Of course, that low temperature was an isola- ted case and if it had been repeated no doubt considerable damage would have occurred. My Cymbidiums are growing in a long narrow structure facing the north-east, com- pletely protected on the west, south and east and with a glass roof. Such protection would, I consider, be necessary at this high altitude. All other Orchids are in a glass-house. In winter the temperature inside the house varies very little, if any, from that outside, but the plants have protection from wind and rain. The Editor of the A.O.R. informed me that he has had inquiries from would-be growers in Katoomba. That ‘city is another 1000 feet higher than Hazelbrook and, moreover, being very exposed, is even colder than might be ex- pected from just the altitude angle. Cymbi- diums would, therefore, I consider, need to be housed throughout the year with a considerable section of the north or north-east constructed of glass louvres to provide the maximum amount of air during summer, which, by the way, can, on occasion, be as hot as Sydney. All other Orchids would require some artificial heat during the cold months. —Valley Rd., Hazelbrook, N.S.W. © A SEPTEMBER REMINDER :—Water- ing overhead should be carried out in the morning during this month, unless an extra hot day occurs, when a light overhead water- ing can be applied in the evening to freshen up plants. Usually the weather fluctuates con- siderably in temperature during the month, hot days and cold nights precluding any hard and fast routine in applying water overhead. A safe rule is to water overhead on a rising tem- perature after the thermometer has registered 60 degrees F., otherwise resort to watering the compost and damping down.—P.A.G. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 SEPTEMBER ORCHID SHOWS The following Orchid Societies and Clubs will hold their Annual Shows during Septem- ber :— Hobart Orchid Club—Town Hall, Hobart, Sep- tember 3rd and 4th. ~ ’ Parramatta and District Orchid Society.—City Hall, Parramatta, September 4th, 5th, 6th. Eastwood and District Orchid Circle-—Masonic Hall, Rowe St., Eastwood, September 5th and 6th. Mosman Home Gardeners’ Association—Town Hall, Mosman, September 5th and 6th. Illawarra District Orchid Society——St. Michael’s Hall, Church St., Wollongong, September 6th. Victorian Orchid Club—TYown Hall, Melbourne, September 9th, 10th, 11th. Orchid Society of New South Wales—VYown Hall, Sydney, September 9th, 10th, 11th, 12th. Orchid Society of South Australia—Liberal Club Hall, Adelaide, September 15th, 16th, 17th. Newcastle Orchid Society—City Hall, Newcastle, September 18th, 19th, 20th. Sydney Orchid Club—Fown Hall, Marrickville, — September 20th. Earlwood District Orchid Society—Yown Hall, Marrickville, September 27th. The Northern Rivers Orchid Society—Richmond Hall, Keen Street, Lismore, September Sth and 6th. ® SEPTEMBER AMONG THE CYPRI- PEDIUMS:—The main crop of flowers has terminated, only a few spring-flowering species and hybrids remaining, the natural effect of which is that re-potting or top-dressing must be carried out with plants that require one or other of these methods of revivifying plants. As Cypripediums are relatively slow growers, these important tasks should be disposed of im- mediately, so that the plants will get a seasonal start in growth, besides making the way clear for other groups which will become ready for attention. Probably plants that flowered early in the season will be the most forward in growth, hence these should be the first to be top-dressed or re-potted. Plants that are re- potted should be allowed to remain dry for a few days to enable roots that have been dam- aged to heal, then water the plants by dipping the pots up to the rim, thereafter keeping the compost just damp until the regular growing season arrives. Clean all leaves of dust and scale to start the plants off with the most favourable conditions of growth.—P.A.G. ® AWARD, VICTORIAN ORCHID CLUB:—Vanda coerulea, H.C.C., April, 1952. Mrs. M. Tweedie. A well filled in flower, nice blue in colour and very wide seg- ments.—R.V. 1 en ie il I a en a ee ee ee ee a ae ae aS a ee AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 Page 83 The Gravel Culture of Cattleyas W. A. SERVICE ® Cattleyas and allied genera of Orchids have €en grown in a number of different media; but, until recently, nearly all growers have used Some sort of fibre as a base for their composts. uring the past few years, however, consider- able work has been done on new media, involy- ing, in some cases, a radical departure from the More usually accepted materials. Of these, tavel is perhaps one of the most unusual and, at the same time, one of the most successful yet tried. The Missouri Botanical Gardens were, per- eee the first growers to carry out large-scale ie of growing Cattleyas in gravel, feeding €m with a nutrient solution. Details of this Work have been published in their bulletins.* Ome years ago the late Mark Reynolds, of 3 cmorne, was growing his Catileyas in a Imilar medium and was good enough to allow Us to study his results. Since then all our attleyas have been grown in gravel with Most satisfactory results. We do not claim that this method of culture solves all the problems, ait that it is, necessarily, the best method under conditions. However, under our conditions, Wwe get better growth and more flowers with Stavel culture than with the more conventional Method of growing in fibre. The conditions under which we grow our Plants may be described briefly. The glass-house tunn; . ‘Unning east and west, has a pitched roof and, 'S heated with an Aladdin kerosene heater. The cation is such that the house is in full sun- ‘ght from sunrise to sunset. The Cattleya papelics are high (39in.) and the shading is aie 1 less than is usual, not only because of the ation but also because of the sparsely painted Blass. In consequence of this the plants are ex- pace to considerably more and stronger light am would normally be the case. Watering is FS meSat during the hot weather and on bright Hs met, days the house and all the plants are . ed liberally several times during the day. a ants, watering is restricted to one hosing myaegne days and is omitted when the weather S dull, auhe plants are in three groups. First, the Wering sized plants, potted in 5 inch and inch pots full of a mixture of 4 inch and 4 Inch blue metal, which appears to be a very *See Australian Orchid Review, Vol. 15, No. 3, 1959. 2 50; “Experiments in Hydroponic Culture.” suitable medium. It is heavy and gives the roots a firm grip. The second group is smaller plants, seedlings and back-cuts in 3-inch and 4- inch pots, filled with somewhat smaller sized gravel. The pots stand in a tray made of flat galvanized iron, painted with bitumen; the size of the tray is 5 feet x 2 feet x 6 inches deep. ‘The third group of 60 seedlings is in a similar 5 feet x 2 feet tray filled to a depth of 5 inches with blue metal, using 4-inch and 4- inch sizes for the bottom 3 inches and topping off with 41-inch screenings for the top. These trays are flooded with a nutrient solu- tion from time to time to a depth sufficient to come to within’ of an inch from the surface of the gravel. It is inadvisable to allow the fertilizer to cover the surface as this induces algal growth on the gravel and round the base of the plants. When filled, the tray is left full for two to four hours and the nutrient solution is then drained back to the reserve tank and the tray left empty till the next flooding. Flood- ing the trays is carried out every two or three days in bright weather, but it is never done if the weather is dull or overcast. During periods of dull wet weather the plants have remained dry—no flcoding or watering—for as long as ten days. The solution is made up as follows:—epsom salts 8 oz.; superphosphate 13 oz.; potassium nitrate 10 oz.; ammonium sulphate 2 oz.—total 33 oz. Water 100 gallons. Commercial grade materials only are used. These contain sufficient impurities to provide the small quantities of the trace elements which are necessary for normal growth. To make up for evaporation, the volume of the solution in the reserve tank is maintained by adding fresh water from time to time and after about two months the solution is discar- ded and a fresh quantity made up. In all three groups of plants the results have been most encouraging and may be summarized as follow:—Root Growth.—The pseudo-bulbs are noticeably shorter than when grown in fibre, but are larger and fatter and show little tendency to shrivel at any stage in the plant cycle. New Leads.—Double breaks are frequent and, when new growth starts from the lead- ing bulb, an additional lead often starts from one of the back-bulbs. Flowering.—F lowers are more plentiful than on plants grown in fibre, Page 84 for three main reascns:—(a) More flowers per lead. (b) More leads per plant. (c) A reduc- tion in time between flowerings. A careful check of the flower texture has been made and we are of the opinion that this is quite as good, if not better than when the plants were grow- ing in fibre. Seedlings—Growth in the case of seedlings is particularly striking, and we estim- ate that the time between the community pot stage and flowering is reduced by about twelve months in gravel culture as compared with growth in fibre. Successful growth and flowering of all Orchids is a matter of arriving at a balance of the factors which affect our plants, the four most important of these factors are light, mois- ture, temperature and available plant food, and if we alter any one of them we should make compensating changes in the others. The ability AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 of Cattleya plants grown in gravel to make use of the ample supplies of nutrients available appears to depend on the provision of more meisture and more light. The rapid drying of the gravel medium stimulates extensive root growth. This in turn enables the plant to take advantage of the readily available nutrients. The extra quantity of light then prevents the fast growing lead from becoming soft and too lush and induces the heavier flower production. Finally, we are satisfied that for,cur con- ditions this method of culture is very suitable and we are now planning a larger house with special concrete trays in place of benches to make room for our rapidly growing stock of seedlings. —44 Pymble Rd., French’s Forest, N.S.W. Cymbidium Potting Mixture T. H. JAMES @ | have, from time to time, extolled the vir- tues, of “Orgarno,” but, unfortunately, that product is not at present available. However, I hope it will again be on the market in the not- distant future. “Orgarno” is really a compost, that is, organic matter broken down into soil or compost by bacterial activity. Now, an excellent compost can be made in one’s own back yard by treating all kitchen (except animal) and garden waste by the use of an organic activator such as “Fertosan” or “QO.R.,” provided the treatment is in accord- ance with the directions given on the packets. Animal matter could be included, provided the receptacle used can be made fly and rot proof, otherwise do not use it. The compost thus made might not, in the early stages, be as good as “Orgarno” on account of the greater variety of matter used in making “Orgarno,” but later the quality would improve by the use of vege- tation from soils treated with the compost. ‘The quality could be further improved by in- corporating into the soil the trace elements. Some fertilizers are now available, such as “Sussex 14,” and, I believe, ““Gros-Plus,” con- taining those elments, but they should be used sparingly and not continuously. As an instancé of the efficacy of composts the following might be of interest. Last spring I agreed to re-pot a neighbour’s Cymbidiums— about 25. He had a large supply of “Orgarno” and a limited amount of compost made on the “Fertosan” principle, so I arranged with him to obtain tan-bark. In due course he advised me of having the bark, but when I arrived to do the potting I found that, instead of tan-bark, he had obtained many rolls of the paper-bark used for lining baskets. I decided to go on with the potting and to dispense with tan-bark, using two-thirds “Orgarno” and one-third of his home-made compost. The results far exceeded my expectations, particularly as the plants had been somewhat neglected in the past. The foli- age looked, and is, luxuriant and the pseudo- bulbs are large. Every pseudo-bulb that should flower is in spike. But what amazed me were two large pots of C. Tracyanum. Yhere were many spikes, some four feet in length. One had 29 blooms and all were much larger than any I had previously seen. Such flowering may not be unusual, but I have never seen anything to equal it. My object in writing these notes is to sug- gest to those growers who have difficulty in obtaining satisfactory material for their potting mixture to try out that compost plan. The time occupied is about eight weeks only, and it is much better than ordinary leaf-mould. The instance mentioned shows that tan-bark is not essential. —Valley Rd., Hazelbrook, N.S.W. @ ORGANO, the humus fertilizer mentioned in ‘More About Orchid Composts’? by Mr. T. H. James, A.O.R., March, 1952, issue, is temporarily out of production and consequently is not on the market at present. ee ae a AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 Page 85 Genetics, or Just Plain Chance? J. N. RENTOUL © The answer is hidden, not out of sight of, man entirely, but only to be discerned by years of patient work and faithful records. The same natural laws that govern the inheritance of man, animal, bird or flower have been laid down by the hand of Nature over many count- less years, and no man can hope to unravel them. They can be used to advantage, and the Purpose of this article is to give tongue to ex- Perience and what can pass for logical reason- ing. In the first place, there is little doubt that environment and culture play an initial part in the evolution of any hybrid. ‘The choice of parents then follows. This is the nucleus of the problem and the point where so many hyb- ridists take the wrong path. There is, firstly, the blood line to consider, then compatability ; the second being determined only by trial and error. If any man can master these two things in regard to Orchids he will have reached a Venerable age and much wisdom. Doubtless it has been done in some degree by a few of the English breeders, but their knowledge is a guarded secret. Considering only Cymbidiums, we know quite certainly that in the majority of crosses made in Australia in recent years there has been much wasted effort and many mesalliances or, in other words, much miscegenation. Without considering for a moment blood lines or other important matters, growers haye made some thousands of crosses, resulting in benches of what can be named rubbish. Very occasionally One good one pops up. That is the case in the Ordinary course of events, and few crosses can be made with such confidence in the result as When Alexanderi variety Westonbirt and Pauwelsii Compte de Hemptinne were first used as parents. What a galaxy of beautiful - Cymbidiums that cross produced. But at least some thought can be given to the aim of the Cross and whether it is likely to be good or ad. It is no alibi to say that no one knows. They do know. If not, then our studmasters are very good guessers when they breed animals that can take a blue ribbon. Certainly there are culls in every form of life. As stated be- fore, natural laws govern this world of ours and yery concrete evidence to the contrary is Tequired to discredit that statement. Let us, then, begin on the sight path and instead of 100 per cent. culls, produce worthwhile hybrids. While it is true that a cross-pollination will produce seedlings partaking of the various qualities of each parent in the way of colour and form, the diversification is so amazing that to flower a number of seedlings from one batch is both fascinating and astounding. A propor- tion even revert to the characteristics of the, erandparents and farther back still to even the type closely resembling the species used in the bloodline. But in the main there is a represen- tative flower partaking of the good qualities cf each parent and having the poorer qualities in recess. There is no reason to imagine that this flower which we regard as the pick of the batch is certain to produce a majority of good flowers in turn when mated with another good flower. Oh, no! To the contrary, the opposite is fairly certain to be the result, mainly because of the aforementioned natural laws governing this little world of ours. There is always the stable type aimed-at by Nature. Quite often the stur- dier, more rugged and far less beautiful flower will be the one which will give the perfection desired. But at least it must have features that recommended it, such as substantial segments and a good natural colour: not indistinctly coloured nor blotchy. To go back in the pedi- gree, or forward to hybridizing with another very fine thing, would apparently depend on the number of generations since the stock was invigorated with an infusion of species or near species blood. The longer a line since an in- fusion of strong species or near species blood, the weaker it becomes and the fewer the viable seeds produced in the pod. In considering the aims in making the cross, form can be developed, colour can be gained, but in the main the two do not merge in the case of brilliant colours, mainly because of the incompatability of the blood lines. But that is not to say that there is not another road that can be followed to that end. In fact it is something to look forward to. Perfect shape and brilliant colour—that is ‘the one we all hope for when we make a cross. In the main, colour cannot be bred with certainty. The only thing certain that a hybridist can say is that he will raise a nice batch of green-flowered Cymbidiums. The odds are very strongly in his favour. This interesting fact has a fairly Page 86 sound basis on which to work. While there are numerous green Cymbidiums that will throw true to colour, the reds we have, and even the pinks, have been induced to give those colours by careful selection and breeding. Yet it is not uncommon to find these two blood lines used indiscriminately. Usually the result ” is indescribable. While not accurately definable as incompatible, Cymbidium Lowianum and C. insigne are differently endowed by Nature, one having the rudiments of the forms so de- sired and the other being exactly the opposite. These two characteristics can certainly be traced right through our Cymbidium range to- day. With the introduction of C. eburneum what a change is wrought. We have Alexan- deri, the beginning and end of all good hybrids. There may be others, but a minority—a very small minority by comparison. But all the good breeding of dlexanderi is brought to noth- ing when bred down instead of up. The selection of parents should be made in the knowledge of the background of each, the pedigree of each, the compatability of each and a fairly clear view of some desired type. If colour is the main reason, then select your parents for that characteristic; if form is the reason, then a background and breeding line for form is necessary. Haphazard pollination of any Orchids except Cattleyas is waste of years. Cattleyas look beautiful, whatever their shape; but not so the poor Cymbidium to a Cym- bidium grower. This article is meant to be provoking. Some thought is necessary in growing our Cymbi- diums, even though they can be grown in thou- sands out of dcors in Sydney. Why should growers waste years of time in growing and flowering 99 per cent. of what can be con- demned unsighted? It is blood line that counts, not looks, and the sooner this is realized the better. Many may disagree with the opinions given. They are opinions, and not statements of fact. But it will need to be good evidence to alter them. They are based on observation and fact, particularly in relation to Cymbidiums. There are a countless number of factors to be regarded with care. But first make sure that the parents used are true to name and rightly named. Tag the crosses carefully and let there be no error in their labelling. If by chance they become mixed, name them as such. Never take the chance and let them go under a wrong label. In the last few years imported and Aus- tralian crosses have flowered in Australia which could not possibly be true to name. And the error is magnified each time the plant is used as AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 a parent. So what is it—genetics, or just blind chance? Our Cymbidium lines are so tangled that Kalmus could not mathematically calcu- late the chances of obtaining what we desire when we transfer the pollen from one flower to the next. But at least let us make an effort in the right direction. ‘The progress in the last 10 years is astounding. Let it continue to be a progressive and not a retrograde movement. —43 Denman Ave., Glen Iris, S.E.6, Victoria. © CHARTERS TOWERS ORCHID CLUB:—At Charters ‘Towers in North Queensland a new Orchid Club was formed recently with a foundation of eight members, which has now increased to sixteen members. Our modest collections are housed in bush- houses and consist largely of Dendrobiums, Cattleyas, Phalaenopses; and Vandas. We have tried to emulate our neighbours in Townsville, who grow beds of terete and semi-terete Van- das in the open, but so far we find that our drier climate and elevation of 1,000 feet give greater extremes of heat and cold, consequently we have not had much success so far. The Phalaenopses are not happy during our dry, cold winter nights, but they seem to be getting, acclimatized. These problems, however, stimu- late our interest. We have very interesting in- formal meetings under the elevated home of our President, Dr. G. Ellis, our Honorary Secretary, Mr. J. Bell, acting as importing and buying agent for members—Mrs. G. M. - Blair, 27/5/1952. ® DARJEELING ORCHID & FLOWER SHOW :—The Committee was unable to hold its yearly show during the war. After eleven years it has been re-organized, the show, as formerly, being held at the rink of the Dar- jeeling Gymkhana Club on May 3 and 4. The ‘outstanding group was that put up by G. Ghose, of Town-end. It was well arranged and came in for much admiration by the numerous visitors. The group won the First Prize and also the Silver Medal of the Royal Agri-Horticultural Society of India. Lt.-Col. L. Hannagan, E.D., won the First Prize in the group for amateurs, the special feature of this group being that it contained native Orchids only. Mr. St. John Demetrius was ‘awarded a special prize for a display of cut Orchids not usually seen in Darjeeling.—G. Ghose, 9/5/1952. ’ A ARR eS SE SSeS SS SS RP aT > RS se SS Ss Pls ren AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 Page 87 The Cultivation of Cymbidiums H. B. JAMIESON (Miss) © Cymbidiums are hardy Orchids and in most parts of New South Wales they can be grown in the open. They need diffused sunlight for as many hours of the day as possible. “The morning sun is most beneficial. If possible, choose a north-easterly aspect sheltered from the winds. Ideal conditions are for plants to be ’ grown on benches in a wired-in enclosure with light tea-tree screening. They may be grown under trees provided the foliage is not too dense or close to the plants, but do not stand the pots on the ground as this interferes with the drainage, and roots of trees tend to grow up into the pets in search of moisture. Most bush-houses do not give sufficient light for Cymbidiums. COMPOST :—The plant is grown in an Open potting mixture which will allow the Water to pass through readily. If water remains In the pot after watering, then the drainage is bad or the mixture too heavy. This excess Water is bad and will cause rotting of rcots and plant. A good potting mixture consists of about 1/3 leaf-mould, 1/3 tan-bark and 1/3 Coarse Nepean sand. A small quantity of char- Coal and very old cow manure can also be used to advantage in the compost. DRAINAGE :—Proper drainage is most essential. ‘I’o ensure free passage ot water and air, place broken crocks in the base of the pot to a depth of about one-quarter, making sure Not to interfere with the drainage hole. _ WATERING :—Watering should be suf- ficient to keep the compost moist—in cool Weather about twice a week is sufficient, but daily watering is needed in the warmer months. n very hot dry days it may even be necessary to water morning and night. In the summer time watering in the evening is preferable and In the winter water about 10 or 11 a.m. so that the plant may have a chance to dry out before the fall in temperature at night More Water is needed in the growing season than when the plant has completed its growth and 1S maturing its bulbs. Small pots need more - Watering than large. Plants grown very close together should not be watered as much as those well spaced with a good circulation of air between them. When watering plants in Cwer avoid wetting buds or flowers, as this Causes spotting. PROPAGATION :—Cymbidiums are pro- Pagated from seed and back-bulbs. The grow- ing of Orchids from seed is the work of a specialist and we will not touch it here. As a matter of interest, let it suffice to say that it generally takes about seven years for the plant grown from seed to reach flowering stage. When a Cymbidium shoot loses its leaves it is known as a back-bulb and may be carefully removed from the rest of the plant. All the roots are cut off the back-bulb and it is then ready for planting. Use, if possible, a 4-inch or 5-inch pot, and after placing crocks in the bottom fill the pot to within 4.an inch of the top with potting mixture. Now stand the back- bulb upright in the soil with about 4 to } of the back-bulb beneath the soil. It will take generally some weeks before a small shoot ap- pears at the surface of the soil. The back-bulb is watered regularly so that the soil is never allowed to dry right out. In summer it needs watering daily, generally, and in the winter about twice during a week. Should the back- bulb become soft, then do not water as much. At the end of about twelve months the small plant should be transferred to a larger pot— about 6 or 7 inches, depending on the size of the plant. The* best time for the beginner to re-pot is in the spring or early summer. When the young shoot swells out at the base the old back-bulb can be carefully removed at re-pot- ting time and this may be planted again and treated as before. Most back-bulbs, if carefully treated, will throw a second and third plant. It generally takes about three to four years for a plant grown from a back-bulb to reach flowering stage. GROWTH :—A mature plant makes new growths each year Old bulbs gradually lose their leaves and can be removed to start new plants. ; The plant must not be allowed to dry out while in active growth and at no time should it become sufficiently dry to allow the pseudo-bulbs to shrivel. FLOWERING:—The flowering — spike grows from the base of the growing pseudo- bulb, frequently inside the sheath of the lower leaf, and care is then taken to see that water does not lodge within the sheath in the early stages of growth. Most Cymbidiums flower in spring. If possible, place flowering plants under shelter as the flowers open, to protect the — flowers, but be sure that the plants receive sufficient sunlight. Page 88 RE-POTTING :—Plants require a fair amount of root space. A plant with three or four pseudo-bulbs requires, at least, an 8-inch pot. Plants need re-potting when the pot be- comes crowded with either roots or pseudo- bulbs or when the compost has lost its value. Plants need re-potting at least every three years and at this time they may be divided into smaller plants and the old back-bulbs should be removed. Cut away any dead roots, but do not disturb the plants more than necessary. Place a plant in a selected pot after the crocks have been added and then lightly fill in com- post around the roots and gently shake into position until the plant is firm. Use a stake to support the plant if necessary. Re-potting should be done in the spring just before the new growths appear, but if a plant is looking at all sick it may be necessary to change the compost or re-pot at any time of the year. To change the compost without disturbing the plant, lie the pot on its side and hose out the compost, then stand the pot upright and pour in fresh compost. If a flowering plant is to be re-potted, cut the spike as soon as possible after the flowers have opened and re-pot. By re-potting early you should not lose a flowering in the next season. The smaller plants may be “potted on” by transferring to a pot 2 to 3 inches larger without disturbing the roots. Compost should be lightly poured in around the plant to fill the pot. PESTS :—Cymbidiums are subject to at- tack by scale. This can be readily removed with finger and thumb, but spraying with “Pestoxol” or ‘““Alboleum” is beneficial. Always peel off the old sheaths from the pseudo-bulbs as these tend to harbour scale and pests. When peeling off the sheaths or dead leaves be care- ful not to break any tiny new growths, as these generally form in the axil of the outside leaves. ‘To remove an old sheath tear down the middle and then pull gently sideways and you will not injure the eye. If elevated off the ground plants can be kept free from slugs and slaters which eat the roots and flowering spikes. A piece of cotton wool, lightly wrapped around the stem, often helps to prevent pests from reaching the flowers. FERTILIZERS :—Be very sparing with fertilizers and manure for Cymbidiums. Very old dry cow manure is good in the compost when potting and also a small quantity of coarse bone meal. If care is taken not to water the foliage, watering with a weak liquid fowl cr cow manure is beneficial. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 © THE ORCHID SOCIETY OF WES- TERN AUSTRALIA:—On Thursday, 26th June, 1952, the W.A. Orchid Society staged its first show in the A.O.F. Hall, Perth, to which the public was invited. For our first effort, it was proclaimed by all as a great suc- cess. There were 65 pots of Orchids and, although Cypripediums predominated, it augers well for the future of the Society in seeing Vandas, Cattleyas and Dendrobiums adorning the benches, with a background of ferns, crotons and other variegated foliage plants, . which gave a very colourful effect. It has been decided to hold a spring show, the annual mid-winter show for “Slippers” now being an. established fact. For a young Society it is indeed very pleasing to see so many high-class Cypripediums and other Orchids on the show bench, and although we may be greatly handicapped in flowering Cymbidiums, due to our W.A. climatic conditions, we are fortunate in being able to produce splendid specimen blooms of practically all other Orchid genera.—A. C. Dawson. © AWARDS, O.S. OF N.S.W., 26/5/1952. Reg. No. 208.—A.D., Miltonia x Petunia var. Red Admiral, Mr. L. Giles (18/2/1952). Reg. No. 209.—H.C.C., Cypripedium Coni- gar var. Verlie, Mr. L. Sasso, size 23in., 76.10 points. Reg. No. 210.—A.M., Cypripedium x Pen- lea var. Laelia Sasso, Mr. L. Sasso, size 3in., 80.30 points. Reg. No. 211.—H.C.C., Cypripedium x Evansrose var. Laelia Sasso, Mr. L. Sasso, size 34in., 77.80 points. N. L. WEBSTER, Registrar. © SEPTEMBER brings days of increasing sunlight and warmth compared with those ex- perienced in August, consequently we notice pronounced restlessness among our Orchids, indicating that they are preparing for flores- cence and vegetative growth. Buds are devlop- ing rapidly and soon we will be viewing a galaxy of colour and form which spring- flowering Orchids usually produce for us. Work on the Orchid front will be quickly approaching its highest point of activity. Cypripediums, Cymbidiums, Dendrobiums, Cattleyas and others call for inspection to see if any require re-potting, carrying out the oper- ation in the order in which the groups are named.—P.A.G. *sjods umoig ‘uldiew azyM YIM jedas [esiop pur yonod a speed ‘mojjas-ystuses3 Inojoo punosg ‘[edas [esiop ssose sot b4¢ ‘azis [eanqeu ‘anyq IYyBIq Imojor punoss ‘speyed sso19e seyrut At Ores TOGUSROUOT RG Ise CN afoul so CseS i ens O i Ome S Neto sO” GY ‘ous FINN “061 “ON “BA “SID "TUM “1G61 “VSN J° “S'O “DOH Ey AGOTID AHL eA ATOHL & WOIddd1eadAO HVAVAGNOM “784 VATOYAOD VANVA a A a i ia) = = RAc *az7I1e > > w ‘gjdind pry2iQ eed anojoo punois ‘sjeqed ssorye Soyoul PT/g¢ 9zZIs : “s[eqed HH? SON EME JAS See ae eee ae Ready te = jeameN “Z0Z “ON “Sey “uossieq “YA V ‘RUM “1961 “MSN J° “SO “OOH 169°6L S1UlOg “LL “ON “32 “ESP “VY “PUNO Os6l WSN JO °S'0 “D'O'H <2 TIVUOWIVA FA ASOU AADTA X SISCHONAVIVHd LLNAOISINDVW “eA VITAIVAV X WOAIGIAWAOD y _~ _ X 3 i Q — ~ ~ a 4 TRALIAN ORC AUS VIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 HID RE a 4 AUSTRALIAN ORC Page 90 ssieH “AM Aq o1oyg “330g “A “V “JIN 10} “8t6l (SII “ON (39H) “M'S'N J° “S'O B paures AjaieA syT, “osseg “TJ “sy Aq pasamoy yuejd e wos st uollens VNVYONVINOS RA MOTIVMS X WOICIGWAO | CYMBIDIUM X CYZARA var. REMEMBRANCE Award of Distinction, O.S. of N.S.W.. 1951. Owner, R. Rothwell, Reg. No. 195. Natural size 334 inches across petals. - (cOTRIEEA TH MILTONIA X LYCAENA yar. STAMPERLAND MILTONIA X WOODLANDS var. BELLEVUE Sc. O.S. of N.S.W.. 1951. Owner, L. Giles, Reg. No. 207. H.C.C., O.S. of N.S.W., 1951. Owner, A. R. Begg, Reg. No. atural size, 3% inches across widest part of the labellum. 206. Natural size, 2% inches across widest part of the labellum. Ground colour white with purple markings. Ground colour dark purple in shades. Page 92 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 tr = ‘ SARCOCHILUS HARTMANNII, F. Muell. . Hunt .Coraki, New South Wales. Won First Prize for Native Show, 1950. Photograph by courtesy of Mrs. S. Mahoney, Macksville, N.S.W. Distribution, Northern N.S.W., Southern Queensland. DENDROBIUM AEMULUM, R. Br. Grown by B. Collier, Coffs Harbour, N.S.W. Approximately 1,000 blooms, open August, 1951. Distribution, New South Wales and Queensland. 1 | | | : rr creme | ‘| , 1 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 Page 93 Vandas J. 8. BERGE Y andas, due to their ease of cultivation and ability to flower prolifically under tropical con- Itlons, are rapidly gaining popularity among Northern Orchid growers. During the past few years several thousand Vanda plants have been fenced into North Queensland and there ‘ Ms no reason why Vandas should not attain al Same measure of popularity and commer- F worth in that area as have Cymbidiums in € more temperate parts of Australia. 4 anda is a generic name derived from € ancient Hindu language, Sanskrit, which ia: Robert Brown, the eminent botanist, re- ‘ined for this genus of Orchids of the Sub-tribe Sarcantheae. “Yhe genus consists all Some sixty-odd species ranging geographic- y from the mountainous regions of Northern quia through Burma and the Malayan Pen- Nsula to the Philippine Islands and Indonesia, nat outlying species in China, New Guinea Nd Australia. Our native species, which are Not popularly known to local growers, are /’., pee sits indigenous to the Northern Terri- aa end said to be a variey_ of /. tricolor, ae W hiteana, a newly discovered species rey the Cape York Peninsula described in J Queensland Naturalist, Vol. XIV., No. 3, anuary, 1951. aa andas vary considerably in regard to plant wine size, coloration of blooms and growing - itions. Many growers have found to their Trow that the lovely V. coerulea from € snow line of the Himalayas cannot survive pce conditions necessary for the successful feet vation of V7. Hookeriana, a native of the Swamp lands of Malaya. aes their native habitats all species are strictly vee ytic, but under tropical conditions certain “Pes can be cultivated as semi-terrestrials. apa form of cultivation is suited to the Wnsville climate for the growing of terete Semi-terete varieties. Broadly speaking, Vandas may be divided a) ee of cultivation into two groups. Seti erete Types, which also includes the The erete types; and (b) Strap-leafed Types. Ore (eae Vandas are probably the easiest E lds to cultivate under North Queens- they Conditions, and with a little care sitio ae reward growers with an almost yea ene supply of blooms throughout the : e main essentials for their successful 0 cultivation are full sunlight, good drainage, compost rich in humus and ample water. For those who prefer pot culture, an 8-inch pot is the most suitable as it provides plenty of room fcr root growth. Vandas do not take kindly to frequent re-potting. The pot should be filled to’$ of its capacity with crocks (broken bricks are ideal for this purpose) and a 3-feet or 4-feet stake of weathered hardwood or old paling inserted firmly in the pot. Attach the plant firmly to the stake with the lower roots in the pot. Fill the remainder of the pot with Elkhorn peat in which may be included a small quantity of burnt bones and a few lumps of dried cow manure. Terete Vandas are not as fussy as some other Orchids as to the quality of the fibre used in the compost. However, it is most important that good drainage must be maintained. Pots should be placed on a well-drained foundation such as rough clinkers, ash or gravel. L find that corrugated fibrolite: is satisfactory with grass clippings piled around and over it. Fresh , supplies of clippings being added as the com- post rots into humus. An alternative method which is very suited to local conditions is to dig a trench 2 feet wide by 2 feet deep in a suitable position sub- ject to full sunlight. Well weathered hard- wood posts about 6 feet high should be inserted in the bottom of the trench at intervals. Fill about 1 foot of the trench with stones and rubble and the rest to ground level with peat, erass clippings and humus. Half a dozen plants may be planted around each post and fresh clippings added as the lower layers decay. Such beds should be well watered twice a day in dry weather. Vandas are not averse to judicious manuring and an occasional sprinkling of fowl manure or application of liquid manure will pay divi- dends. “Terete types recommended for tropical con- ditions are: V’. teres (and its several vari- eties), V7. tricuspidata and V. spathulata (a yellow flowered species). All these are species, as is ’. Hookeriana, but unfortunately most of us have found this plant somewhat difficult to cultivate in Townsville. Attractive hybrids which have proved themselves suited to local conditions include 7. x Miss Joaquim, V. x Page 94 Cooperi, V. x Rose Marie, V. x Amy, V. x Josephine Van Brero and the semi-terete (crosses between terete and strap-leafed vari- eties) V. x Rosalia, V. x Madame Dinger, V. x Marguerite Maron and Vl’. x Prinzes Beatrix. Group “B’’:—Strap-leafed types require con- siderably less direct sunlight than the terete and a position in the bush-house where they re- ceive lightly checkered sunlight up to mid- day suits most of them adequately. Some, how- ever, require more or less light than others, and it is a case of trial and error for individual growers, who will be assisted by studying the native conditions of their plants or the parents in the case of hybrids. Their large fleshy roots grow very vigorously under suitable conditions and have a tendency to ramble extensively in search of moisture and focd. For the reason thus given large wooden baskets or similar containers are recommended for their cultivation. Large Tree-fern baskets are probably the best containers, but unfortun- ately such material is hard to come by in Townsville, so we can do with wooden baskets in their stead. Compests, of course, are always a conten- tious subject wherever Orchid growers fore- gather, but I have found good open Elkhorn or Osmunda fibre with the addition of She- Oak needles and a few lumps of charcoal to keep the compost sweet, well suited to my plants. Judicious stimulation does not go amiss, and an application of well-strained liquid manure or rooting hormones coupled with copious watering of the compost in the grow- ing season will give good results. Proven flowerers in this group, locally, in- clude VY. Amesiana, V. lamellata, the lovely blue V7. coerulea, V. tricolor and its variety sauvis and, last but not least, the Queen of all Vandas, V. Sanderiana, more correctly known as Euanthe Sanderiana. Once one commences growing Vandas, it is no time be- fore one augments his or her stock, as they are remarkably easy to propagate by vegetative methods. Vandas are monopodial in habit, i.e., they grow progressively upward from the apex of the plant and they do nct normally branch or make yearly progress by production of lateral leads as in the case of Dendrobiums or Cattleyas. Consequently, in time, plants be- come lanky and unwieldy and in this state they tend to become lazy flowerers. With this con- AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 dition comes the opportunity to augment one’s stock. This is done by cutting off the upper portion of the plant, taking care to cut below at least two or three active aerial roots and at a point about half-way between two pairs of leaves. The upper cutting may be potted off and will continue to grow with little check. The butt will usually produce one or more off-shoots, which may either be potted off as socn as they develop aerial roots or be per- mitted to develop into a new lead from the old butt. Rooting may be induced at suitable points on a plant by tying a collar of peat or moss round the stem and keeping it damp. In addition to Vandas there are a number of closely related genera which do well locally and may be cultivated under similar conditions to Strap-leafed Vandas. ‘These co-genera, some of which, incidentally, hybridize readily with Vandas, include Saccolabium, Aerides, Rhyncostylis, Renanthera, Stauropsis and Van- dopsis, whilst Arachnis is worth a trial in com- pany with the terete kinds. In conclusion, I would like to mention that in qucting names earlier I confined myself to those which have proven themselves as reliable flowerers under Townsville conditions. Much has been done, and is still being done, by hyb- ridists in Java, Singapore, Hawaii and Ceylon to produce new and better flowers and some include V. x Gilbert Triboulet, V. x Roth- childiana, V. x Saphir, V. x Emma Van Deventer, V. x Pride of Lanka and a host of others. Some of these hybrids are now making their appearance in our collections and will, I hope, prove as prolific under local cultivation as some of our more. popular favourites. —Murray St., Townsville, Queensland. ® CATTLEYAS REQUIRE ATTEN- TION :—Keep the compost moist of those that are coming into flower. In the unheated glass- house buds and flowers should be protected from water and condensation, covering them ~with cellophane being a useful precaution. Plants that flowered in the autumn will be developing new pseudo-bulbs, so protect these from water stagnating in the new leavey otherwise they may damp off. Re-pot a plant when new roots emerge from the base of the leading pseudo-bulb.—P.A.G. -® “Your publication is excellent and always Orchid pleases us immensely.”—Northwest Society, U.S.A. ct Ee RON NE SO ON II OTE FSP ot 8 EEOC A SN LEER I SE I SE TO ESIC I IL IE TENE OS ICES y AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 Page 95 Potting Receptacles—Large or Small? Pp. A. GILBERT A Economy in either the outlay for equip- Ment or in the routine work of growing Orchids makes the hobby more pleasurable as Well as enabling the newcomer to Orchid cul- ture to add to his collection without greatly feeling the strain of money expended. But that Snot all. The economy should carry cther Positive advantages in attaining success. Close observations on epiphytes in their Native homes reveal that, no matter how heavy 4 rain storm may be, the surplus water on the Tanches and trunks runs away almost immedi- ately, leaving the surrounding bark of the ‘town and the root system of Orchids comfort- ably saturated. This is in contrast with the “onditions that obtain in a large pot after it as been liberally watered in a bush-house and, More particularly, in the unheated glass-house °r the artificially heated one, and in which the State of wetness persists for a much longer Uration than that to be observed in a state of ature, : The sizes of receptacles to use in the propa- Ration and cultivation of Orchids have in- terested me for many years, and as a result of bservation and experiment I have found that, 'N my own system of management, the small Pot is directly cheaper in itself besides being directly cheaper in the amount of compost ‘hat is required to fill it, as well as in handling 't. The grower is able to place more plants in the same area that fewer pots occupy. The re- Sultant growths of plants in small pots are €tter than those produced in pots that are out : Proportion in size to their inmates. mee get the best flowering results from tchids under cultivation the root system Stould be commensurate with both the size of a Teceptacle, whether it is a pot, basket, cylin- r he raft or slab of fibre, and the foliage of _ the Plant. There should be perfect balance be- fen the three. A large plant combining XUuriant foliage and an extensive root system Viously demands a large pot and requires to a Potted progressively into a larger pot each NCcessive year to build it into a specimen plant. is RVC) a small plant similarly balanced rf ds a correspondingly suitable pot, re-potting la °F petting it on in the same manner that the "er plant demands. he small pot has many other advantages the large one in encouraging and induc- lu Over ing free rooting and active foliation. The small pot and its compost do not remain saturated if properly drained, consequently it cannot be over-watered. The compost retains its sweet- ness for a relatively longer period and thus its, accompanying nutritive value, owing to the lack of bacterial disintegration under confined conditions. A small volume cf compost is more easily aerated than a large mass with a central core of wet material. Roots have a shorter dis- tance to travel to reach the side of the pot where they develop better on account of having a surface to adhere to which is more natural than a large amount of soaked compost in which the roots very often refuse to wander about. The small pot with a little quantity of potting material responds more quickly to a fluctuation in temperature which more nearly approximates the requirement of Nature, the large receptacle being cool when it should be warm or hot when it should be cold. In propagating a plant from the pseudo-bulb of a Cymbidium or the back-cut of.a Cattleya devoid of a rcot system and foliage, the objec- tive should be to develop a well-balanced plant despite the size of the material available, and this can be done by using the appropriate re- ceptacle in size. A healthy pseudo-bulb or back- cut contains all the essential materials to de- velop a vigorous vegetative growth with the help of water and air, consequently the smallest amount of compost only is required for the first year or two to suitably make the root and vegetative systems grow. Frequently, I have noticed, that in building up a plant from either a pseudo-bulb or a back-cut, that this propa- gable piece has been over-potted and, in some cases, grossly so. Potting a Cymbidium pseudo-bulb, for in- stance, into a large pot with the idea of either getting more vigorous growth cr saving time potting in the immediate years to come does not always work out as expected. The average Cymbidium pseudo-bulb vegetates more quickly in a small pot owing to its relatively warmer and drier conditions as compared with a large pot with a big quantity of material, especially in an unheated glass-house, in which it is very often difficult to prevent a young shoot from rotting off. Again, there is an ultimate gaining of one or more years in the period to flowering time by using the small receptacle, depending, Page 96 of course, on the variety to be propagated. For nursery purposes a three-inch pot is suitable for the pseudo-bulb about the size of a large wal- nut, cr up to 14 inches in diameter, the four- inch pot will do for a pseudo-bulb about two inches across the widest part, using a five-inch one for the very large pseudo-bulb. If satis- factory progress has been made the plantlet can be potted on without disturbance to the roots to a large receptacle the following year, sever- ing the old pseudo-bulb if the plantlet shows sufficient advancement. The grower will have to use his own discretion in this matter, as it is impossible to give specific details in widely varying circumstances. Calanthe, Phaius, Zygo- petalum, Coelogyne, Odontoglossum and other pseudo-bulbous types can be treated in the same way. With the Cattleya, a back-cut of two pseudo- bulbs about five inches long will vegetate and mature its primary eye vigorously and robustly if placed in a three-inch pot; if the pseudo- bulbs are six inches long a four-inch pot will do nicely; while back-cuts longer than six inches in length will grow satisfactorily in a five-inch pot. Any leaves should be cut from pseudo-bulbs if they are devoid of active roots, this applying to other types as well. Thunias up to twelve inches long can be placed in a three-inch pot, eighteen inches in a four-inch and longer in a five-inch pot. The Dendrobium group affords the propa- gator the opportunity of being rather drastic in the use of small receptacles, as the Dendro- bium appreciably develops in a relatively smal- ler pot than those recommended for either the Cattleya or Cymbidium, hence, with this group the grower can use from two-inch to four-inch pots for propagation purposes on the same basis as suggested fer those two groups. An offshoot or back-cut about three inches long should be propagated in a two-inch pot, from four to nine inches long in a three-inch pot and those longer in four-inch pots, re-potting all these into cor- respondingly larger pots when satisfactory root systems have been developed. Miltonias, some Odontoglossums and many other feeble rooting kinds can be handled as the Dendrobium. © The Cypripedium division should be planted into the smallest pot it can be placed in com- fortably, re-potting it into a larger pot the following year if it has furnished a progressive growth; other pseudo-bulbless kinds can be treated similarly. Summarizing the potting routine: In vege- tative propagation three things may occur, (1) AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 the propagable piece has been placed in its appropriate pot for size, a perfectly balanced plant of roots and foliage being the result, and with progressive seasonal potting it will make additional growth in conformity with balanced development. (2)It has been over-pctted, in which case the season’s growth is stunted, lacks vigour and generally ie the appearance of having been furnished with unpropitious sur- roundings. The plant is definitely unbalanced. This can be corrected by giving the plant a new start in potting-back, that is, place it in a smal- ler pot, repeating this operation until the siz- able receptacle has been hit upon. This applies to the cultivation of Orchids in general. (3) It has been under-potted, the roots straying in all directions, giving the appearance of having developed the root system at the expense of the vegetative one. Vhe obvious move is potting-on, that is, to pot into a size larger. A Cymbidium pseudo-bulb when greatly over-potted some- times develops a root system out of all propor- tion to the foliage which it serves, and in this instance it can be considered as decidedly un- balanced, taking several seasons to adjust itself, and in the meantime it is subject to the numerous maladies that all life meets with when it is struggling in an unsuitable environ- ment. © DENDROBIUMS:—The buds _ and flowers shculd be kept dry in the unheated glass-house to prevent them from becoming spotted or from damping off. Water the com- post only, or dip the pot of a flowering plant up to the rim. Re-pot or top-dress with fresh green Sphagnum Moss as soon as growing points of roots appear at the base of the new growths.—P.A.G. © Ventilation of the glass-house will demand daily adjustment to cope with variations in humidity and temperature. Keep a watchful eye on ventilators facing the west, whence occasional parching winds blow. Reasonable humidity and a continuous supply of fresh air are necessary to prevent checks to new growths. —P.A.G. ® MISCELLANEOUS VARIETIES of Orchids can be accorded the same treatment as suggested for the popular groups if their habits of growth are similar. Odontoglossums and Miltonias will require attention with regard to shading, especially if grown in a glass-house- —P.A.G. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 Page 97 The Genus Bulbophyllum in Australia H. M. R. Rupp (The Rev.) © A Review of this Genus (in so far as it is Tepresented in Australia), prepared by Mr. ; tevor E. Hunt and the present writer, has €en published in the Proceedings of the Royal Society of Queensland (Vol. LX, No. 6, Ok It was accepted by the Society as far ack as June, 1948; but publication was un- avoidably delayed till December, 1949. Mean- time an additional species has been discovered In *North Queensland; but full details are Not yet available. Bulbophyllum is a vast genus of Orchids Comprising upwards of 1,200 species, which are widely distributed through tropical and sub-tropical areas of the world. They attain their greatest development in the region ex- tending from India to New Guinea. In 1932 Ogers estimated the number of Bulbophyllum Species in New Guinea alone as 540. Crossing the Torres Straits from New nea into Australia, we find a sudden and Onsing drop in numbers. F. M. Bailey’s ~Ueensland Flora (1902) described 15 species Or that State; but two of these have since €en found to be invalid and two others have €en transferred to Dendrobium. Forty years sacl however, the number of recognized Aus- dalian species had increase to 21, and Hunt ring Rupp have added 7 more, bringing the otal number now known to 28. All of these °ccur in Queensland and nineteen of them have paly been found north of the 22nd parallel. ight extend into New South Wales; but no (ophyllum has yet been discovered in any t the other Australian States. The great majority of Bulbophyllum species are comparatively small plants with diminutive flowers, having little aesthetic or cultural value. There are, of course, some notable exceptions to this rule. Even in our limited assortment of Australian species, at least one, B.°Baileyi, is worthy of a place in any collection. It is a fairly large plant, with numerous purple- spotted flowers. Practically all Bulbophylls are plants with extensively-creeping rhizomes, and sometimes they form dense masses of consider- able extent on trees or rocks. In such cases the innumerable flowers, small as they are, make quite a good show. With relatively few exceptions, the plants are furnished with pseudo-bulbs, arising from the creeping stem (rhizome). The pseudo- bulbs, viewed on the generic scale, exhibit in- numerable variations in form and dimension, although in many of the smaller species they are similar. As a general rule, there is one leat to each pseudo-bulb, emerging at its’ apex; rarely two leaves are present. The peduncles or flowering stems usually arise from the base of the pseudo-bulbs, but sometimes grow directly from the rhizomes between the pseudo- bulbs. Flowers are solitary in some species, racemose or capitate or almost spicate in cthers. Some of our Australian species, despite their pygmy dimensions, are of considerable interest. B. evasum, described as a new species in Hunt and Rupp’s review, was so named because it evaded definite determination as a Bulbophyl- lum for about 57 years after it was first col- lected! It is practically devoid of pseudo-bulbs, resembling in this respect a few Indo-Malayan species. Ihe leaves are comparatively thick and THE ORCHID SOCIETY OF WALES NEW SOUTH THE SYDNEY ORCHID FESTIVAL SYDNEY TOWN HALL (MAIN HALL) SEPTEMBER 9th, 10th, 11th, and 12th, 1952 TUESDAY—12 nocn to 10 p.m. FRIDAY—10 a.m. to 9.30 p.m. WEDNESDAY and THURSDAY—10 a.m. to 10 p.m. Glorious displays in District Exhibits. 100,000 Blooms on show. Acknowledged the greatest Orchid Exhibition in the World. Official Opening: Tues., Sept. 9. Admission 2/- John Davis, Hon. Secretary. Page 98 leathery. The tiny flowers are densely packed in a small head at the end of a long filiform peduncle. Anything less like the popular con- ception of an Orchid could scarcely be im- agined; but under a powerful magnifier the microscopic individual flower is clearly re- vealed as that of a Bulbophyllum. One very diminutive species was named by Baron von Mueller many years ago, B. minut- issimum. It was discovered by Archdeacon King, of Sydney, in 1849, in “the gully leading from Woollahra to Rushcutters’ Bay’—a spot now not much more than a mile in a direct line from the heart of the city of Sydney. It is so small in all its parts that the Baron’s name might well have been accepted as approp- riate; but Archdeacon King mildly objected to it, considering that it ignored certain strik- ing peculiarities and that it might prove a mis- nomer should a still smaller species ever be found. Time has justified his second objection; for in 1938 the discovery of B. globuliforme on the New South Wales-Queensland border has deprived B. minutissimum of its pride of place as the smallest species. The pseudo-bulbs of B. globuliforme (Nicholls) are about the size of pins’ heads. ‘The individual flowers, however, are a little larger than those of B. minutissimum. B. MacPhersonii is one of the gems of the Australian group. An ordinary pocket lens will serve to reveal the remarkable beauty of the little flowers —deep red and purple, with a mobile, heavily fringed labellum. The nomen- clature of this species has a chequered history, which was given in full detail by the writer when the present name was bestowed in The Victorian Naturalist for July, 1934. It was originally named B. purpurascens by Bailey in 1884; but Henry Deane transferred the plant to the genus Osyricera, under which name it AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 appears in Fitzgerald’s plate, “Australian Orchids” 11.5. The genus Osyricera being sub- sequently suppressed, our little plant (which nobody had seen for years) had to be returned to Bulbophyllum; but it transpired that Bailey’s name was invalid, having been pre- occupied by a Javanese species in 1862. In 1933. Mr. K. MacPherson, of Proserpine, Queensland, re-discovered the plant and sent specimens down south for determination. As a new name was necessary, I decided, after con- sulting the late Dr. Rogers, that this charming little Orchid, one of many rare and unfamiliar species collected by Mr. MacPherson, should bear his name. This last species I shall mention is also one of the most curious, the flower being as large as the pseudo-bulb and leaf combined. It was named by Dr. Rogers in 1933 in honour of one of the veteran members of the New South Wales Orchid Society, Mr. F. A. Weinthal, who discovered it growing on hoop pines near Dorrigo, N.S.W. It has since been found to extend into Southern Queensland. It is a small plant, with solitary flowers of white or cream marked with red-brown or magenta, which are usually too large and heavy for the peduncles to hold them erect. The effect is quaint rather than beautiful; but it is certainly unique among Australian Bulbophylls—32 Neville St., Wil- loughby, N.S.W *Hon. Editor’s Note: Bulbophyllum waughense, Rupp, has been described in “Contribution from the N.S.W. National Herbarium” Vol. 1, No. 6, Novem- ber, 1950, from North Queensland, since this paper was received, which brings the total up to 29 known species of Bulbophyllum in Australia. ® ORCHID CLUB OF SOUTH AUs- TRALIA ANNUAL EXHIBITION will be held on September 15, 16, 17, at the Liberal Club Hall, Adelaide. THE VICTORIAN ORCHID CLUB Don’t miss it! ORCHID SHOW Thousands of Blooms on View MELBOURNE TOWN HALL TUESDAY, 9th SEPTEMBER. WEDNESDAY, 10th SEPTEMBER THURSDAY, 11th SEPTEMBER from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. RE EC EL I TCE ETE ~~ SS A ge RD ARR RI I I AS TOR I A OE a PP a ne moO gS 3 o- ae a AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 Page 99 _ The Asymbiotic Raising of Orchid Seedlings N. C. BREDDY - Looking back through previous issues of the Australian Orchid Review | find that very €w comprehensive articles have been published embracing the raising of Orchid seedlings *symbiotically. Probably due to the compara- Uvely small number of raisers in Australia, ©ontributers to this journal may be rather con- “*tvative in recording ‘their experiences in this ago: The purpose of this article is to pre- j t a comprehensive account of the raising of €edlings by the asymbiotic method and the pecpicms that are likely to be encountered by ad grower who would embark upon this most eresting branch of Orchidology. le OF course, there are many complex prob- Ms connected with this work, and even the Most skilled of workers are sometimes puzzled = factors which upset the normal trend of €nts. The raising of certain genera, such as halaenopsis and Cypripedium is still a com- Parative secret, but even so there still remains maly aspects which are yet to be defined by €n the most successful raisers and researchers. Pt mnation in initial and advanced stages 2 Perturbs raisers, whilst the question of in- fased growth is being investigated by a few Workers. hatnrchids, for the most part, possess no root ste therefore cannot absorb the various nut- S present in the soil or mixture in which ae ate growing like other plants which possess ' airs. It has, however, been discovered at Orchid rocts contain fungi which replace a normal osmotic process as found in other arhat Many of these fungi were discovered mee anes by Bernard in 1903, and his work iy ollowed by that of Burgeff, in Germany, lip eats Fas classification of the fungi. ea rchids with green foliage there are two Ben of mycorrhizal fungi, namely :—Rhyz- ing a and Corticium. The process of absorb- € nutrients is called symbiosis obtained in the action of the root fungus on the mixture Which the plant is grown. symbe this somewhat complicated process of ts Knudson in America evolved a Pieiacon which seeds could be sown and cult without the use of a fungus or symbiotic “Ure. In addition to Knudson, a number of Garp acrle have introduced Orchid cultures Nic io purpose, chiefly:—La Garde (U.S.A)., Ola1 and Burgeff (Germany). Each i i en P: (2° medium will be considered and its relative merits discussed. Knudson’s B Solution:—Monobasic potas- sium phosphate KHzePO: .25 grm.; calcium nitrate Ca(NOs)-4H-O 1.00 grm.; ammonium sulphate (NH:)2S0: .50 grm.; magnesium sul- phate MgSO:7H2O .25 grm.; ferric phos- phate FePO:4H:O .05 grm.; sucrose 20.00 grms.; agar 15.00 grms.; distilled water | litre. The ferric phosphate is added by 1 c.c. of FePO4H:O, 0.5 grm./100 c.c. of distilled water. The salts and sugar should be added one at a time and dissolved completely before the next is added. An excellent idea is to dissolve each chemical in a small quantity of distilled water before adding it to the 1000 cc. of water. When this procedure is completed the mixture can then be heated until the agar and sugar are thoroughly dissolved, after which the pH of the mixture must then be taken., Most workers adjust the pH value by adding 1. nor- mal hydrochloric acid in order to lower the value or, in other words, to make it more acid. By .1 normal is meant that as 36.5 is the gram equivalent of Hcl there are 3.65 grams of acid contained in a 1-10 normal solution. When the pH value needs raising 1-10 normal sodium hydroxide (NaOH) is used. That is, 4 grams of NaOH dissolved in. litre of water. A few drops of the above solutions will appreciably change the pH reading of the medium. The importance of having the correct read- ing for the raising of Orchid seedlings cannot be over-emphasized. For Cattleyas and allied genera a pH of 4.8 is satisfactory; for Cym- bidiums and Odontoglossums a pH reading of 5.0 is more suitable; whilst Phalaenopses and Cypripediums require a value between pH 5.8 and 6.5 for satisfactory results. Too great an acidity injures the embryos and too little prevents the availability of iron in the plants. Since the pH reading rises .1-.2 or more dur- ing sterilization, the medium should be a little more acid prior to sterilization than is required in the finished medium. Measurement of pH values can be done by two methods. (1) By the pH glass electrode meter. (2) By visual colorimetric methods. The first mentioned is an expensive instrument and few raisers would require such accuracy. Colorimetric methods consist of adding approx- See correcbious Page 100 imately 1 m/1 of the solution to 10 m/1 of the medium to be tested and then comparing the resultant colour with a set of colour stan- dards appropriate to the pH range desired. There are several suitable indicator solutions, such as Methyl-red, Bromo-cresol-green and mixed. indicators such as B.D.H. Universal and B.D.H. “4460” Indicators. Following pH adjustment the medium should be poured into 250 or 500 m/I flasks of the Erlenmeyer type and cotton wool plugs inserted, then sterilized for 15 minutes at 15]b. per square inch. Upon removal from the auto- clave or pressure cooker, the flasks can either be placed upright or in a slanting position; the latter position giving more surface area than when placed upright. Dr. Knudson, in 1946, introduced a new Solution C, differing from his previous B medium in two items. The iron salt is changed to ferrous sulphate FeSO:7H:O, .025 grams per litre and there is added manganese sulphate MNSO+4H:O, .0075 grams per litre. This creates the favourable ratio 2.3 to 1 between iron and manganese. In 1936, H. Burgeff published in Germany a comprehensive treatise on symbiotic and asym- biotic seed-raising in his book “Samenkeimung der Orchideen.” It is a valuable work and con- tains much information regarding the use of vitamins, sugars, nitrogen sources and other factors. His Eg.1 medium differs but little from Knudson’s, but requires no further adjustment to the pH value, as this is controlled by a buffer action which produces a reading of pH 5.1-5.2. As a precaution it is advisable to test the pH value prior to sowing the seed by add- ing a quantity of indicator soluticn to one of the flasks. Burgeff's Eg.1 medium :— Solution A Calcium nitrate Ca(NOs):4H:-O 1 grm.; ammonium sulphate (NH:«):SO: 0.25 grm.; magnesium sulphate MgSO:7H:O 0.25 grm.; ferrous sulphate FeSO: 0.02 grm.; distilled water 500 m/I. Solution B Dibasic potassium phosphate KeHPO: .25 grm.; monobasic potassium phosphate KH»PO: .25 grm. Solutions A and B are each dissolved in the specified volume of distilled water and then mixed together. Then can be added 20 grams of glucose of sucrose. Alternatively, 10 grams of glucose plus 10 grams of fructose can be used. The question of various sugars has been explored by many werkers and other media AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 contain such sugars as fructose, maltose, and mannose; sucrose is, however, a good general sugar for the raising of Orchids. Burgeff and, to some exent, other researchers found glucose and fructose more beneficial in the raising 0 Cypripediums. La Garde’s medium:—Magnesium sulphate MgSO:.7H:O 1 grm.;_ calcium __ nitrate Ca(NO:):4H:O 1 rm.; monopotassium phosphate KH:PO: 1 grm.; calcium chloride CaCl: 1 grm.; ammonium nitrate NH.NO: 0.5 grm.; ammonium carbonate (NH:):CO= H:O 0.5 grm.; ferri phosphate | c.c. (2.5 grms./500m/1 distilled water) ;agar 17 grms.j glucose, sucrose, maltose or mannose 20 grms.; distilled water 1 litre. This medium is excellent for the raising of Cattleya and allied genera and has also been found to be useful in the raising of Odonto- glossums. Nicolai’s medium :— Solution A Calcium nitrate Ca(NO:)-4+H-O 1 grm.; ammonium sulphate (NH:):SO: 0.25 grm.; magnesium sulphate MgSO:7H:O 0.25 grm.; ferri sulphate FeSO:7H:O 0.02 grm.; dis tilled water 500 m/l. : Solution B Dibasic potassium phosphate KxHPO. 0.25 grm.; monobasic potassium phosphate KH»PO! 0.25 grm.; distilled water 500 m/l. After dilution in the distilled water, mix 4 and B together and add 20 grams of sucrosé or 10 grams of glucose. Vandas and Phalaet opses, also Dendrobiums, are raised very wel on this medium. Containers and Plugs:—We will now dis cuss the question of what type of container t@ use, also the method of sealing the container: Most workers favour 250 m/l or 500 m/! Erlenmeyer flasks and for the most part they are a most satisfactory container in which t? sow seed. The flasks can either be placed up- right or slanting; in the case of the larger capacity flasks it is an advantage to slant them, as a greater surface area for sowing is created: Furthermore, when placed on their sides evap- oration of moisture is lessened due to the con- densate returning to the medium down the sides of the flasks. (To be continued) CLASSIFIED ADVERTISEMENTS FOR SALE.—Cymbidium bits and_ pieces, Edzel Elizabeth, Gossoon Kabbarli, Louis Sander Girrah- ween, Swallow Hebe, Cordelia, Kuringai, Mirand4 Maisie, Charm Elegance, Princess Elizabeth Hern? Bay, Ixtaccihuati, etc. J. Truelove, 29 Ian St. Kings ford. FJ2896. | . | | AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 C YViebwee ieg lS HOW TO BUY, GROW AND FLOWER THEM | ] | | ; | | y C. W. BUSHELL, Jr. AWARD AND SHOW BENCH VARIETIES: pee should be bought by those who not only wish to enjoy Cymbidium Orchid Culture as a hobby, but who desire to make a sound private investment or aspire to the joys and disappointments of the show bench! We have the great majority of these in stock at all times, but the number of green bulbs and smaller pieces of any one variety that can be released in any one season is strictly limited by the fact that demand has consistently exceeded supply for some years past. At this date we are able to release portions of nearly all our Award and Show Bench Varieties. Space does nut permit a long list, but here are some of them:— Girrahween var. Enid Charm var. Elegance Balkis var. Allambie Girrahween var. Gloria Cygnus var. Janet Louis Sander var. Girrahween Louis Sander var, Kirribilli Cassandra var. Jennifer Esmerelda, Green Swallow var. Daffodil Cassandra var. Evadne Uterpe var. Churchill Joyance var. Cinnamon Cassandra, Parra. Show Winner Cassandra var. Exquisite Gloriana var. Tudor Rose Eagle, all White Dracula, Green and/or Yellow Miranda var. Maisie Falcon, Outstanding Newcomer Rosy Queen Princess Elizabeth var. Maisie ete var. Lindfield Swallow var. Conquest Princess Margaret No. 1 Olymp: Swallow var. Ruby Lips Sandpiper No. 1, White Rivident Wilson No. Celia No.1, Green ‘ Sandpiper No. 2, Pink Psyche Verulam, Early Westonbirt FLORIST TYPES: ANY hundreds of Orchid enthusiasts throughout Australia bought their first Orchids from us during the past twelve years and more. They came as clients and have remained as friends. Let one of our Beginner’s Collection of Florist Types start you in a profitable and fascinating hobby. One dozen select flowering size hybrid plants (all named varieties), £10/10/-. Half dozen, £5/15/-. Potted and delivered free in Sydney metropolitan area. Orders elsewhere mailed ex pots and compost, with potting instructions. Postage and freight extra. “HOW TO GROW CYMBIDIUM ORCHIDS": HIS tract has become the standard guide to our clients during recent years. It tells you How to Buy, How to Grow, How to Flower your Cymbidium Orchids. It is free. Call, phone or write for it. Also our free 1952 Catalogue. HABERFIELD ORCHID NURSERY The Oldest Established Commercial Cymbidium Orchid Specialists in Australia. NURSERY LOCATION: 17 Kingston Street, Haberfield (Sydney), N.S.W. Callers alight at Haberfield Tram and Bus Section. Nursery open Saturdays and Sundays—week days, by appointment. Telephone: | UAIs72 Pa Page 101 Ieutir Ya Page 102 Section of Vanda Orchid Nursery, Cairns, N.Q. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 ey: Tropical Orchids (Reg.) 342 Sheridan St., Cairns, N. Qld. Queensland agents for: G. A. de Jong, Holland. Specialising in hybrid Vandas, Phalaenopses, Dendrobiums, and Marcel Lecoufle, France Kian Kee Garden, Malaya. Cattleyas. Standard Nursery, India. Price Lists sent on application. Visitors welcome at Nursery. Ring Phone 2385 THE ORCHID JOURNAL A new monthly magazine devoted to orchid- ology in all its phases for both amateur and botanist. Editor Alex. D. Hawkes, California. For subscriptions—50/- per annum, advertising rates and descriptive leaflet apply to the Aus- tralian Agents: H. C. WALKER, RICH & CO. Grand United Building, 149 Castlereagh Street, SYDNEY. M2838 ORCHIDS FOR AMATEURS Over 4,000 amateur clients abroad successfully grow our Famous Orchids. Price 2/6 up. Easily grown in a cool Greenhouse. Send for Free New Illustrated Catalogue with cultural in- structions. CHANDRAS ORCHID -HOUSE P.O. Kalimpong, W. Bengal, India FLOWERS G VEGETABLES ALL THE YEAR! In and out of season, sun-loving plants thrive in the warm, ideal surroundings of ‘’THE WALDOR". The “WALDOR” is rust-proof — rot-proof — insect-proof -— requires no maintenance — guaranteed 10 years. Available all sizes and shapes. Maldon GREENHOUSES STANHILL PTY. LTD. — i Box 5079AA., G,P.O., MELB., Vic. ‘Phone Win. 6902 (7 lines) INDIAN ORCHIDS Five reasons why you should obtain your re- quirements from us:— 1. Good quality backed by good name. 2. Prices and terms most competitive. 8. Innumerable testimonials to prove the excellent condition of the plants on arrival whether booked by Parcels Post or Air, 4, Reliability endorsed’ officially—you can check this up with the Indian Embassy in your country. 5. Special and most elaborate arrangement for collec- tion in all parts of India, including the remotest part, Hence many choice varieties can come to you first hand only from us. y COMPLETE LIST AND PARTICULARS UPON REQUEST \ THE STANDARD NURSERY (Regd.) P.O. Kalimpong, Dist: Darjeeling, India. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 : Page 103 _|-BACK AGAIN! Genuine “Doonside” TERRA COTTA ORCHID AND NURSERY POTS With Terra Cotta Saucers to match © Suitable for all types of Terra Cotta Orchid and Nur- Orchids Now, genuine ‘Doonside” sery Pots are available again in unlimited quantities from leading Garden and Hard- ware Stores and Nurserymen. Same pre-war quality—same specially selected clays scien- tifically designed for every type of Orchid. * Clean-edged “Doonside” Terra Cotta Pots are strongly constructed with adequate drainage holes and manufactured in a range of sizes 3in., 4in., Sin., 6in., Zin., 8in., 9in., 10in., 12in., unglazed (Terra Cotta), or glazed, with saucers to match if required, to meet every grower’s need. Agricul- tural pipes 4in. If in difficulty in securing orders over 500, contact MAXWELL PORTER & SON LIMITED 107 REDFERN ST., REDFERN. MX1323, MX3157 Manufacturers and Suppliers of Australian Terra Cotta Products for over 50 years. Page: 104 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 Imported SAINTPAULIAS (African Wiesel Pink Lady—White Lady—Red Head and other hybrids 6 varieties for 30/- (postage extra)—November delivery CYMBIDIUMS AWARD PLANTS and DECORATIVES in various sizes Seedling Cymbidiums for 10/- each CYPRIPEDIUMS Good range of Hybrids available CARBAMIDE It’s a tonic e It’s beneficial to all Orchids e Just watch them grow 2 lbs. or 3 lbs. would be sufficient for 12 months for an average collection Price 7/6 per lb. (postage extra) Obtainable from YORK MEREDITH FITZPATRICK AVENUE, FRENCH’S FOREST, N.S.W. PHONE: XW6143 Open every day from 9 a.m.—5 p.m. ORCHID EXCHANGE (Regd.) (L. M. & W. F. Tierney) CELLULOID SHEETS IMPORTERS & EXPORTERS Re GROWERS ORCHID LABELS 3 PEMBROKE ST., CAIRNS, N.Q. In various colours for sale direct | from Importers FOR Tan Bark, Leaf Mould, Sphagnum Moss, Cow Manure, Tea Tree, Pots, and Orchid Growers’ Sundries. For samples and prices please contact PAINTER & STARKE MILTON BROS. PTY. LTD. _ CASTLE aoe Nanay 24 McLachlan Ave., Rushcutters Bay egd. = F _. Phone UW2551 Sydney—’Phone FA5196 C. ANGEL ISLAND teen athalie Dekens x C. Estelle alba—an excellent textured clear white flower with a faint dab of yellow i p in the throat. Appropriately, we have named this lovely cross Angel Island (an island of yellow *P in the. glistening white throat). 4-inch unflowered seedlings wi - - - - $12.00 H STORY OF ANGEL ISLAND: ni ae . = . . . . . . ae Island is the largest island in our sparkling San Francisco Bay. Many people received their first im- lg49 ton of the United States from this lovely island. Angel Island served as immigration headquarters from 10 1941 and here newcomers from the Pacific and the Orient first felt the impact of their new life. E. W. McLELLAN CO. ~ Box 289R, San Francisco 25, California 0 ENG UD GROWERS TERS—IMPORTERS—HYBRIDIZERS QUANTITY DISCOUNTS Page 106 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 High-class showy Orchids! Delivered free by Air Mal! Do not send payment in advance, pay after you have received the plants in good condition. Collection of showy Orchids in Dendrobiums, Cymbidiums, Coelo- gynes, Vandas, Cypripediums, £34 for 100; £19 for 50; £10/10/- for 25; and £6/10/- for 12 large and healthy plants of full flower- ing size. Double Gerbera seeds, selected strains. 8/- per 100; £2 per 1000. Single Gerbera seeds, best mixed, 6/- per 100; £1 per 1000. 12 pkts. Lilium seeds in different varieties, including Auratum and Speciosum, £2/5/- Complete lists on Cattleyas, Laelias, etc., free THE UNITED FORAL CO. 8! Miles, Kalimpong, India CYMBIDIUMS BY Kt ©y1DGHaN: Se Finest varieties, including Award Winners. Also good Hybrid varieties for the new Grower. For Lists write:— ~HODGINS ORCHIDS P.O. BOX 108, FRANKSTON, VICTORIA The Nursery is situated in Baden Powell Drive & Canning St., Mt. Eliza AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 Page 107 KNUDSON'S AGAR (Formula ‘'C") A. PREPARED READY FOR INOCULATION. Flask quantities only. Rates are variable and will be given on request. B. READY MIXED KNUDSON'S AGAR (DRY). Add water and sterilise. Compounded to give final Ph 4.8-5.0. 37 grams, sufficient for | litre, 15/- (posted 17/6). 41b., sufficient for 3 litres, 40/- (posted 42/6). INOCULATION OF SEEDS ONTO AGAR is a charge additional to preparation of Agar medium. For this section of the service charges are £1/5/- per half dozen, £2 per dozen of culture vessels inoculated. W. H. BLACK 185 OXFORD STREET (AT TAYLOR SQUARE), SYDNEY, N.S.W. PHONE: FA7462 CASUARINA (oak leaf) mould, 5/- corn bag ROTTED WOOD, 10/- per sugar bag RIVER SAND, 3/6 per sugar bag CHARCOAL, 10/- per sugar bag CYMBIDIUM ORCHIDS OF QUALITY both in colour and shape COLIN R. HAMILTON Cymbidium Orchid Specialist 133-135 HAWKESBURY ROAD, WESTMEAD (near P.O. and Railway Station) Phone: UW8430 Delivery can be arranged Call or write W. J. BENNETT 83 EVELYN ST., SYLVANIA, N.S.W. ORCHID PLANTS Notice to Advertisers z WANTED ; All enquiries as to Advertising space should be addressed to the publishers: AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW iene SHEPHERD & NEWMAN All Varieties YURONG STREET, SYDNEY Preferably in Spike From Single Plants to Collections THE HERBAL HOME OF INDIA OFFER A COMPLETE RANGE OF Orchids, Bulbs and Lilium Seed Wholesale Lists and full particulars from J. E. JONES, "LIMBERLOST™ FRESHWATER, CAIRNS, N.Q. (Australian Agent) FPRANK’S ORCHIDS 364 VICTORIA ROAD DRUMMOYNE Telephone WA1678 Also available: A good range of Australian Native Orchids. ~~<=— Page 108 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 Orchids Orchids We have a fine collection of all varieties of Orchids, including Cymbidiums, Dendrobiums, and many © other Anthuriums, etc. miscellaneous and glasshouse _ plants, Inspection cordially invited any day (Sundays excepted) JOHN BISSET 8 Brisbane St., Lindfield. CYMBIDIUM ORCHIDS A handy booklet containing a selection of names and parentages also awards granted by the Orchid Society of N.S.W. can be obtained by sending 5/- to: FRANK SLATTERY 12 Eddystone Road, Bexley, N.S.W. Post free NURSERY — Phone WAI124 PRIVATE (Evenings) JA8906 Agents for the “Australian Orchid Review” in Great Britain Messrs. B. F. Stevens & Brown Limited, New Ruskin House 28-30 Little Russell Street LONDON, W.C.1 are carrying stocks of current and back numbers of the Australian Orchid Review. Readers in Great Britain should communicate with them regarding their supplies. CES BUSA OOK§ SANDER'S ORCHID GUIDE, 1927 Edition, containing best known species, varieties and natural hybrids of Orchids in cultivation. £4/10/-. Post 2/3. SANDER'S LIST OF ORCHID HYBRIDS—With Addendum 1946, 1947, 1948, 2 vols, £10/1/3. Post 3/3. CHARM OF GROWING ORCHIDS (P. A. Gilbert), illust. £1/16/-. Post 1/3. A HANDBOOK ON ORCHIDS (J. Bisset), illust. 12/6 Post 5d. ORCHIDS—THEIR CULTURE AND CLASSIFICATION (P. A. Gilbert), illust. £2/2/- Post 1/9. Leash yao ae AND MANAGEMENT (Watson & Chapman) 1903, col. and B/W plates, S/hand, nice copy. £7/15/- 2/- TRAVELS AND ADVENTURES OF AN ORCHID HUNTER (A. Millican) 1891, illust. S/hand, nice £ 3/15/-. Post 1 1/6. ODYSSEY OF AN ORCHID HUNTER (F. D. ster 1930, illust. S/hand, BE £2/15/-. Post 1/6. THE IRIS AND ITS CULTURE (J. Stevens) col. B/W plates. £2/5/-. Post 1/6. COMPLETE BOOK OF FLOWER ARRANGEMENT. Peel and Grayson), col. & B/W plates. £2/10/-. Post 1/6. HOME GROWING ORCHIDS (R. Northern) col. plates £2/9/3. Post 1 CARNATIONS IN COLOUR & CULTIVATION (T. LILIES OF THE WORLD (Woodcock & Stearn) illust. DISEASE IN PLANTS (N. & R. Stevens) illust. £2/16/-. GARDENING WITHOUT DIGGING (A. Guest) illust. /3. C. Mansfield) col. plates. £ 1/15/3. Post 1/6. £2/4/-. Post 2/-. Post 2/-. 3/5. Post 3d. GREENHOUSES—THEIR CONSTRUCTION AND EQUIPMENT (W. Wright) illust. £1/6/6. ‘Post 1/6. COMMERCIAL GLASSHOUSE CROPS (W. Bewley) _illust. £3/1/-. Post 4/- ORCHIDS FOR THE OUTDOOR GARDEN (A. W. Darnell) illust. £3/18/6. Post 5/-. ORCHIDS OF AUSTRALIA (W. H. Nicholls) comprising 25 parts to be published over 13 years. 24 col. plates in each part. Parts 1 and 2 now available. £7/10/- each part. Book orders for remaining parts. THBEROUS-ROOTED BEGONIAS AND THEIR CULTURE (G. Otten) illust. £1/1/-. Post 5d. AUSTRALIAN GARDEN BOOK (R. Edwards) illust. £1/15/- Post 2/-. SHRUBS AND TREES FOR AUSTRALIAN GARDENS (E. E. Lord) col. and B/W. illust. £5/5/-. Post 2/6. Also. 10,000 new and second hand books on Botany, Natural History, Early Australia, Art, Fine Literature, etc. Catalogues free. Scientific Instruments, Magnifiers, Microscopes, etc. N. H. SEWARD PTY. LTD. 457-7 BOURKE STREET, MELBOURNE, AUSTRALIA. MU6129 wee eee nn OO EO AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 The Orchid Society of N.S.W. Meets Last Monday: Y.W.C.A., Liverpool St., Opposite Anzac Memorial, Sydney MON., SEPT. 29th MON., OCT., 27th MON., NOV. 24th Patron: His Honour JUDGE H. F. MARKELL, Lawrence Ave., Turramurra. President: JOHN BISSET, 8 Brisbane Avenue, Lindfield. Phone: JM1906 Hon. Secretary: J. C. DAVIS, 16 Jarrett St., Campsie Hon. Treasurer: L. A. PEATY, 684 Forest Road, Bexley. Phone: LW3108 Hon. Editor: P. A. GILBERT, 37 Colin St., Lakemba. The Queensland Orchid Society Meets Second Friday: Miniature Rifle Range Building, Boundary Street, Brisbane FRI., SEPT. 12th FRI., OCT. 10th FRI., NOV. 14th Patron: E. J. BEARD, Esq., 207 Cavendish Rd., Coorparoo, SE2. President: T. C. HARVEYSON, “Mildura,” Dorrington Drive, Ashgrove, W.3. Hon. Secretary: S. H. PHILLIPS, G.P.O. Box 2002X, Brisbane. Hon. Treasurer: J. P. McPHEE, Carmody Rd., St. Lucia, $.W.1., Brisbane The Victorian Orchid Club Meets Third Monday: The Independent Church Hall, Collins Street, Melbourne, at 8 p.m. MON., SEPT. 15th MON., OCT. 20th MON., NOV. 17th President: R. VICK, 32 Northcote Ave., Balwyn, E.8 Phone, WF2365 Hon. Secretary: J. R. McARTHUR, 24 Somerset Rd., Glen Iris. Phone, WM1314 Hon. Treasurer: G. HAND, 36a Weybridge St., Surrey Hills. Phone, WF2894. The Orchid Club of South Australia Meets Royal Society Rooms, Institute Building, North Terrace and Kintore Ave., Adelaide THURS., SEPT. 4th THURS., OCT. 2nd THURS., NOV. 6th Patron: The Premier, Hon. T: PLAYFORD, Norton Summit. President: L. H. B. HUDD, 30 Davenport Terrace, Wayville. Hon. Secretary-Treasurer: H. C. ENGLAND, 31 Angas Road, Lower Mitcham. The Orchid Society of Western Australia Meets Fourth Thursday: Foresters’ Hall, Francis St., Perth, at 7.45 p.m. FRI., SEPT. 25th FRI., OCT. 23rd FRI., NOV. 27th President: J. HAMMOND Hon. Secretary: F. 8. FARRANT, 22 Stirling Highway, Claremont Hon. Treasurer: W. E. BARNES, 36 Stirling Highway, Nedlands. WM3246 The Hobart Orchid Glub Meets Fourth Thursday, 8 p.m.: Public Library, Hobart. Patroness: Lady Cross. President: E. G. Vince. Hon. Secretary: A. Cruickshank, 72 Tolosa St., Glenorchy. Wholly set up and printed in Australia by the Proprietors, Shepherd & Newman Pty. Lid., Yurong St., Sydney, N.S.W. P. 4. Gilbert, Hon. Editor. AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, SEPTEMBER, 1952 Armstrong & Brown Proprietor: Clint McDade. Manager: J. L. Humphreys. TUNBRIDGE WELLS ENGLAND Solicit enquiries for COMMERCIAL AND EXHIBITION ORCHIDS Unflowered and Flowered plants of all types available. Splendid vigorous stocks raised from the finest parents. VISITORS CORDIALLY INVITED A personal visit to our greenhouses will demonstrate the hrgh standard of culture maintained. Armstrong & Brown ORCHIDHURST, SANDHURST PARK, TUNBRIDGE WELLS Cables: Orchid, Tunbridge Wells. Telephone: Southborough 276 PUBLISHED QUARTERLY VOL. 17. No. 4 PRICE 3/6 DECEMBER, 1952 DENDROBIUM THYRSIFLORUM. (greatly reduced) THE OFFICIAL ORGAN OF THE ORCHID SOCIETY OF NEW SOUTH WALES, THE QUEENSLAND ORCHID SOCIETY, THE VICTORIAN ORCHID CLUB, THE ORCHID CLUB OF SOUTH AUSTRALIA, THE ORCHID SOCIETY OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA, AND THE HOBART ORCHID CLUB. JOHN BISSET Orchid Specialist WINNER OF THE FIRST PRIZE Awarded to the BEST TRADE EXHIBIT at the O.S. of N.S.W., ORCHID FESTIVAL, 1952 Orchids of quality and distinction from | JOHN. BISSET Show Nursery Stock Nurse) — 8 Brisbane Avenue, East Lindfield, N.S.W. 48 Wareemba St., Abbotsford, N.S.W: Phone: JM1906 Phone WAI12" 3 Saturdays and Sundays Week day AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, DECEMBER, 1952 Page 109 Special Announcement to Orchid Enthusiasts John Bisset has pleasure in announcing the publication of a Book on Orchid Culture which is an invaluable aid to Orchid enthusiasts. ORCHIDS FOR EVERYBODY by R. Bruce Hogg Over 200 pages with 32 pages of Illustrations Price 25/- (Post 1/- extra) JOHN BISSETT PRIVATE (Evenings) JA8906 8 Brisbane St., Lindfield. NURSERY — Phone WAI124 AUCTION SALES OF ORCHIDS WET OR FINE Will be held on the last Saturday in each of the following months: April, June, July, 1953, at the Wondabah Orchid Nursery, opposite Wireless Station, Pennant Hills Road, Carlingford. Following the auction sale of orchids belonging to Mrs. Worth, we were inundated with requests from buyers for repetition sales, so have made co-operative arrangements with several prominent growers to make available for auction sales divisions of our finest Cymbidiums, also the latest crosses of Australian and imported seedlings, Cattleyas, Miltonias and various other genera. Further information will be advertised in local press. Refreshments in aid of charity will be available. Le G TEs Carlingford, N.S.W. Phone WM2959 Pee es tb anise iebiabs ad atl oubbot bitsy im setae * FRANK SLATTERY, 12 Eddystone Road, Bexley, N.S.W. Hy PHONE: LX2985 cordially invites all Orchid Lovers to inspect his stocks of Dendrobiums, Cattleyas, Vandas, Cypripediums and various genera suitable for bush and . glass house culture. Aladdin Glasshouse Heaters. Pots, labels and compost. Darlton Spray Guns: 1 Pint size, £2/18/6; 1 Quart size, £3/3/0 (plus ANG Always on hand one of the most comprehensive steck of Award and Show varieties in Australia. Beginners welcomed and every assistance given Page 110 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, DECEMBER, 1952 ppsceenorreageressssiommeneany oR NG @ eles QUALITY ORCHIDS AT BARGAIN PRICES Thousands of plants resulting from divisions made after the Blue Mountain’s bush fire of December, 1951, represent a pleasing sight at Greenacres. Growing plants have more bush house pictured above is an even more imposing sight now. Additions have been made, so that the bush house now covers an area of 240 ft. long and 50 ft. wide, hous- than kept pace with sales and the larger ing growing cymbidiums in 25,000 pots. Plants in other bush houses which suffered in the fire are now being divided and potted, thus further increasing the tremendous store of plants at Greenacres Orchid Farm. All plants are making truly wonderful progress from bush fire damage, and although labels were burnt, all plants will eventually be named and worth pounds more than prices paid— in some cases tens of pounds more. ‘ To you comes a unique opportunity to visit Greenacres and make your choice from all these plants at the following bargain prices. 6 inch Pots £1 Is. Od. 8 inch Pots £2 2s. Od. 10 inch Pots £3 3s. Od. Special quantity discount available on large orders. , Write for a free copy of Roy Deane’s Orchid Book ; REO Re Was A NEE “Greenacres”—Valley Heights, On the Lower Blue Mountains Remember at “Greenacres” a child can buy Orchids with complete safety AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, DECEMBER, 1952 ODONTOGLOSSUMS ODONTIODAS and allied genera in great variety are available to you from the CHOICEST STOCK IN THE WORLD HIGH QUALITY MODERN HYBRIDS in a wider colour range than exists in any other generic group, of orchids NO LESS THAN 47 AWARDS BY THE ROYAL HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY SECURED BY OUR ODONTOGLOS- SUMS AND ALLIED GENERA SINCE 1948 We shall have the pleasure in quoting you in these or other genera on advice of your requirements to CHARLESWORTH & Co. Ltd. Haywards Heath, Sussex, England For the finest ORCHID HYBRIDS in all genera Specialty of: Cattleyas and allied genera Vandas, Phalaenopses Miltonias, Odontonias and Odontoglossums Further information and our latest catalogue is obtainable from L. Giles, Carlingford, N.S.W. VACHEROT-LECOUFLE BOISSY—SAINT—LEGER Seine et Oise, FRANCE Cable: Vacherot—Boissy St. Leger Seine et Oise, France Phone: Boissy St. Leger 42 VISITORS WELCOME Page 111 INDIAN ORCHIDS By Air or Sea. Direct from our Nurseries Cymbidium, Cypripedium, Dendrobium, Veni Coerulea, etc. We stock all the best kinds of horti- cultural and botanical Indian Orchids. Write for our catalogue now, and place your order immediately for the Indian Autumn (November approxi- mately) delivery. G. GHOSE & CO. Townend, DARJEELING, INDIA Os;R*CiRED ESE In all kinds Seedlings and mature plants Catalogue free on application MARCEL LECOUFLE 1. Rue de l’Eglise BOISSY-ST-LEGER S & O FRANCE Visitors always welcome TREMORVA ORCHIDS Good Quality Cymbidiums (Hybrids) at reasonable prices Good Cypripediums wanted — purchased or exchanged. Inspection Saturday Afternoon, Sundays only. Country enquiries and orders receive prompt attention. TREMORVA ORCHIDS 24 MURRAY ST., LANE COVE, N.S.W. Page 112 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, DECEMBER, 1952 Protect Your Orchids! with PESTOXOL | from Thrip, Red Spider, Green and Black Fly and other Pests. PESTOXOL is the ideal horticultural liquid insecticide. It is specially suitable for spraying or sponging orchids. Regular attention to your orchids using Pestoxol will ensure protection. For general use with orchids use | part of Pestoxol made up to 20 parts with water. Where orchids have become infected with scale, scrub the foliage with a brush, using the above solution of Pestoxol. Pestoxol is particularly valuable when used in conjunction with a D.D.T. preparation. Use 1 oz. PESTOXOL to 20 oz. of water and 4 teaspoon 50% D.D.T. Emulsion, or 1 teaspoon 25% D.D.T. Emulsion. AVAILABLE AT ALL SEED STORES in packs of: 10 Fluid Ounces. 1 Gallon. EK A sbAUL DENG ( eCOm lm: 98 CASTLEREAGH STREET, REDFERN PARK, SYDNEY ADELAIDE - PERTH - SYDNEY - MELBOURNE - BRISBANE - LONDON AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, DECEMBER, 1952 Section of Vanda Orchid Nurs Page 113 Fa ery, Cairns, N.Q. Tropical Orchids (Reg.) 342 Sheridan St., Cairns, N. Qld. Queensland agents for: Marcel Lecoufle, France G. A. de Jong, Holland. Kian Kee Garden, Malaya. Standard Nursery, India © Cattleyas. Price Lists sent on application. NCEE ORCHIDS! ORCHIDS! THE SURVIVAL OF THE FITTEST No weakling undersized plants find a way into our Package It will be worth your while to look at the Special Collection we are offering POST FREE this month High-class showy flowered Orchids in a popular selection of 25 different kinds—an ideal beginner’s collection. £6 0 O (Stg.). Florist’s Collection, a selection of the most popular and i owy Orchids, noted for large and lasting blooms—25 dif- erent kinds £610 0 Georgeously Beautiful Dendrobiums, 12 different sath i 10 Cymbidiums, chosen for their beautiful blooms and foliage, SUEY a oh een coerce reread tipeammrtioe peer aren 3 aie Our New Illustrated Catalogue yours Free for the asking Tf you want First Class Stocks, worthy of a name, then It’s From Chandras CHANDRAS ORCHID HOUSE Kalimpong, India. Specialising in hybrid Vandas, Phalaenopses, Dendrobiums, and Visitors welcome at Nursery. Ring Phone 2385 FLOWERS & VEGETABLES ALL THE YEAR! In and out of season, sun-loving plants thrive in the warm, ideal surroundings of ‘THE WALDOR”. tb The “WALDOR” is rust-proof — rot-proof — insect-proof -— requires no maintenance — guaranteed 10 years. Available all sizes and shapes. ' GREENHOUSES STANHILL PTY. LTD. Box 5079 AA., G,P.O., MELB., — < Vic. ‘Phone Win. 6902 (7 lines) Maen = INDIAN ORCHIDS Five reasons why you should obtain your re- quirements from us:— 1. Good quality backed by good name. 2. Prices and terms most competitive. 3. Innumerable testimonials to prove the excellent condition of the plants on arrival whether booked by Parcels Post or Air. 4. Reliability endorsed officially—you can check this up with the Indian Embassy in your country. 5. Special and most elaborate arrangement for collec- tion in-all parts of India, including the remotest part. Hence many choice varieties can come to you first hand only from us. COMPLETE LIST AND PARTICULARS UPON REQUEST THE STANDARD NURSERY (Regd.) P.O. Kalimpong, Dist: Darjeeling, India. Page 114 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, DECEMBER, 1952 GIG HIS of Quality * Car DEANE PARK and GREEN STREETS, GLENBROOK ~NEW SOUTH WALES Telephone Glenbrook 481 BLACK & FLORY Ltd. SLOUGH, BUCKS., ENGLAND SSD We have a limited number of FLOWERED Cattleyas, FLOWERED Cypripediums and FLOWERED Cymbidiums for sale and are able to despatch to Australia throughout our winter, due to our proximity to London Airport. We do not at present issue a catalogue, but lists of plants will be willingly sent to enquirers. Please state in what genera interested. We do not sell community pots or small plants. vi] >) Sethial: antisite ict Somme NSU ae Le ae vs aa + AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, DECEMBER, 1952 ; Page 115 CYMB THY MS HOW TO BUY, GROW AND FLOWER THEM AWARD AND SHOW BENCH VARIETIES: - Pee should be bought by those who not only wish to enjoy Cymbidium Orchid Culture as a hobby, but who desire to make a sound private investment or aspire to the joys and disappointments of the show bench! We have the great majority of these in stock at all times, but the number of green bulbs and smaller pieces of any one variety that can be released in any one season is strictly limited by the fact that demand has consistently exceeded supply for some years past. FAMOUS WESTONBIRT VARIETIES: (Ope write or ’phone your order for one of our special Collections of Westonbirt varieties and put the stamp of quality on your Orchid Collection: Four select flowering size plants, £16; two, £9; one, £5. Westonbirt varieties of Arabellas, Swal- lows, Louis Sanders, Dorchesters, etc., included. FLORIST TYPES: MaAx* hundreds of Orchid enthusiasts throughout Australia bought their first Orchids from us during the past twelve years and more. They came as clients and have remained as friends. Let one of our Beginner’s Collection of Florist Types start you in a profitable and fascinating hobby. One dozen select flowering size hybrid plants (all named varieties), £10/10/-. Half dozen, £5/15/-. Potted and delivered free’ in Sydney metropolitan area. Orders elsewhere mailed ex pots and compost, with potting instructions. Postage and freight extra (4/6 in Australia by post). "HOW TO GROW CYMBIDIUM ORCHIDS": qs tract has become the standard guide to our clients during recent years. It tells you How to Buy, How to Grow, How to Flower your Cymbidium Orchids. It is free. Call, phone or write for it. Also our free 1952 Catalogue. HABERFIELD ORCHID NURSERY The Oldest Established Commercial Cymbidium Orchid Specialists in Australia. NURSERY LOCATION: 17 Kingston Street, Haberfield (Sydney), N.S.W. Callers alight at Haberfield Tram and Bus Section. Nursery may be inspected Saturdays, Sundays or week days, by appointment. C. W. BUSHELL, Jr. Telephone: UA1872 — Page 116 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, DECEMBER, 1952 “orchids to the eWei Re We are the original pioneers and largest consignors of cymbidium blooms throughout the world. Our merchandising is recognised as the best. Prompt regular collection made during the season. RELIABILITY, SERVICE AND SATISFACTION HIGHEST PRICES AND CASH! CONTACT US EARLY. * GariM dh PisGukink wl 1 172 HARROW ROAD, KOGARAH, N.S.W. Telephone LW3502 an US fiakoay eh Hpi Volume 17 DECEMBER, 1952 No. 4 The author of each article is responsible for the facts and opinions expressed therein. Contents ARTICLES An Appreciative Critic ne besten 2 0) Asymbiotic Raising of Orchid ‘Seedlings, The—N. C. Breddy =e 119 Awards, O.S. of N.S.W. eile ot RM icles tina edi emer MA is con | WAS Awards, V.O.C. PRS aa Ras SEPP OORT CS ROTM MOEN Lemna ahs! LAAN Copper ’Naphthenate, A Fungicide in Seed ‘Raising—G. H. Slade ned DR) GulturalgNotes—B:4iGsa woke ali. osevet wasttlot 124, 125, 128, 134 [lawarra Field Notes—J. Truclove % x 133 Manuring Cymbidiums, Some Notes on—T. H. “James” 118 News and Notes—(Front Cover, 118) sus 121, 124, 125, 126, 134 New Zealand Orchid’ Society’Inc} The sen 131 Orchidestandards——1ke Hie Jame site) ee ote oie iae-eppenie ys aoa 124: Prize Winners, The Orchid Festival (1952) Silat her i egy 2), Raising New Hybrids from Seed—A. R. Persson ne sae won ES Show Reports—O.S. of N.S.W. (Winter)—F. Jones (ee eee 132 —Eastern Suburbs Orchid Society—J.R.B. a bebe 33 —Eastwood Orchid Circle—R. Watson 0.0 vn ieee 3 3 Some Factors Influencing the Growth of Orchids—Sir ise Poate .... 122 Vase of Cymbidiums, The—P.4.G. asin Bet bs fe Joe AMS William Bernard Worth—E. 4. Hamilton SE te SERS oe ae 133 ILLUSTRATIONS Ble. x Bow Bells var. Snow Cloud = Ren Sie el ANNE me 29, Gymbid 1m Syn Via S Cae 1 eer aoe San spain? 02 sets MES Cypripedium x Conigar var. Verlie i Rey a LET ea Ee 127 Cypripedium x Evansrose var Laelia Sasso BAA ays thls es aes, me YY Cypripedium x Langley Pride var. Laelia Sasso (colour) i Fens tea 129 Cypripedium x Penlea var. Laelia Sasso ne ei Se RP Dendrobium x Pompadour var Wondabah Rr cate | ct Pape nas: 127 Dendrobium thyrsiflorum dy te he aes d Front Cover | General Apparatus used in Raising ‘Seedlings (1-4) aa aan Peels 0. Miltonia x Petunia var. Red Admiral 0 en 7) i 1) Personnel Hon. Editor: P. A. Gilbert, 37 Colin St., Lakemba, N.S.W. é f Associates , QUEENSLAND: VICTORIA: SOUTH AUSTRALIA WESTERN AUSTRALIA: TASMANIA: 1gcvor E. Hunt R. Vick R. J. Langdon | A. C. Dawson F. W. Chilvers 1s Challinor st. 32 Northcote Av. 8 Regent St.,. » 50 Bay View Tce 1 Lassuade Ave Ipswich. Balwyn, E.8. Millswood Mosman Park Sandy Bay Articles, photos, and drawings are invited, and may be forwarded to any of the above gentlemen, for publication in the Australian Orchid Review. TO TTT eT While the Proprietors of the Australian Orchid Review endeavour to assure the reliability of their advertising, neither the Proprietors of the ‘‘Australian Orchid Review’ nor the affiliated Orchid Societies can assume responsibility for any transactions pees their advertisers and their readers. Subscription Rates: Australia and New Zealand, 12/6 per annum; Overseas, 12/6 sterling per annum. Post free. Payable to Shepherd & Newman Pty. Ltd., Yurong St., Sydney, Australia. Page 118 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, DECEMBER, 1952 Some Notes on Manuring Cymbidiums T. H. JAMES ®@ At recent shows I saw many Cymbidiums. which had obviously been heavily manured. That prompted me to pen a few words of ad- vice for the inexperienced. “The experienced growers probably know what they are doing and need no advising. The plants I noted were growing in 10 and 12 inch pots crammed. with huge bulbs and with luxurious lush green leaves, but only one flower spike. As foliage plants they certainly were entitled to the highest award, but as Orchids are grown for their flowers and not for their leaves I consider that such plants showed poor culture. Under good culture every leading bulbs that has reached the flowering stage should produce a flower spike in a nor- mal season. The plants I have in mind had obviously been treated with frequent applications of manure in either solid or liquid form which contained a high percentage of nitrogen. That element acts on the leaf structure and, when supplied in large quantities, induces luxuriant foliage, but, unless associated with a balanced diet, flowers will be few if any. Also, there would be a tendency for the flowers to be gross and/or ill formed. By all means nourish your plants during the growing season, particularly if the compost does not contain sufficient nutriment for that period. Be sure, however, you use a balanced ration, ‘ preferably organic, and use it weak at short in- tervals and not in big doses. Some years: ago a scientist from the Depart- ‘ment of Agriculture explained to members of the Orchid Society of N.S.W. that Orchids, in common with other plants, can absorb only a limited amount of nutriment and, if supplied in large doses, saturation point might be reached and the plant would then suddenly collapse and die. Many of our older growers will remember several such instances and there were probably others that have been kept a dark secret. There seems to be a general re- luctance to admitting failures. Apropos of excessive nitrogen—a neighbour of mine has some particularly fine violets. This season, with visions of super flowers, he dosed the plants liberally with sulphate of ammonia. He certainly had his super violets—like small pansies—but about one flower only to 100 leaves, which were over twelve inches high. Orchids would react in the same way under similar treatment if they did not die first. I heard it suggested that some growers had removed all flower spikes except one with the idea of inducing extra quality blooms on the spike retained. If more than one spike should appear on the one bulb removal of the excess spikes would probably result in finer blooms than if more than one were allowed to develop, but if each of several leading bulbs in a pot should produce a spike the removal of any would not, I believe, increase the quality of the blooms on the spike retained. Each leading bulb is actually an independent plant with its own root system, although it may be connec- ted to the others by the back-bulbs of the rhizome. © THE VASE OF CYMBIDIUMS—Class 15, O.S. of N.S.W. Festival (1952): Mrs. P. Ellis again took the First Prize and is to be congratulated on her expert presentation of a lovely exhibit. The tonal hues and tints were discreetly arranged, presenting a picture that completely captivated the onlooker, while the accessories added to the balanced display. The varieties so tastefully arranged were x Dor- chester, x Canary, x Louis Sander var. Burra- neer, xX Inamorata, x Flamingo, x Swallow vat. White Wistaria, x Eagle var Snow Queen and a few others. The judge, Mrs. Dunlop, was full of praise for the winning exhibit, remark- ing that it was the best she had seen in these competitions. Some of the exhibitors lost a considerable number of points in not having their exhibits properly balanced, large gaps being observable between the racemes. Either the racemes shif- ted or they were not suitable for the particular receptacles in which they were placed. Clean fine sand about three inches deep covered by an inch or two of water would help to steady and keep the racemes in position.—P.A.G. © THE FRONT COVER:—Dendrobium thyrsiflorum makes a spectacular display when flowered as illustrated. The plant was grown and flowered by Mr. R.C. Needham, Roseville, _N.S.W., and carried 48 (forty-eight) beauti- ful racemes (thyrses) when the photograph was taken. The sepals and petals are white, the lip being orange-yellow, the flower measur- ing 14 to 2 inches across the petals. es AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, DECEMBER, 1952 Page 119 The Asymbiotic Raising of Orchid Seedlings N. C. BREDDY (Continued from the September Issue) pee form of container is the square or ath type glass jar with metal or plastic W-on cap which is used by bacteriologists aH pathologists for the production of various Ultures. The medium remains moist for a very ae period when this type of container is used a it inoculation technique is made more >mple, Large tubes are also used for the rais- ng of seedlings. ti ther containers of a somewhat less conven- ‘onal form are used, such as medicine bottles, Preserving jars, milk bottles, etc., all of which Produce various degrees of success. The Erlen- is flasks and glass jars with metal screw- Ps produce the best’ results. bef 1 glassware should be scrupulously clean Bar use and no alkaline deposit should be = On the inside of the containers. A weak dee of hydrochloric acid will effectively re all glassware. A thorough rinse through vate distilled water is most important after mae es Containers can be sterilized separ- ‘ly before any medium is poured into them °r 15 minutes at 151b. per square inch. § pen absorbent cotton wool rolled into a aa Plug is the usual method of sealing flasks aif (itt: SEL quite sure that the plug is to ght fit in the flask, thus allowing no spores See mrate through on to the medium. After fi i ‘ation allow the medium to cool and sete € position desired. ae, form of stopper which has a decided ad- age over the conventional cotton plug is a Tubber stopper with a small bore glass tube . ning through the centre, the glass tube be- as Plugged for a portion of its length with, 0 . ‘ton wool. As a further precaution the tube ie e bent into a AUF shape thus further we anes evaporation and risk of penetrating es. ig When using the conventional cctton plug it cvs eos to cover the plug after the seeds are een sown. A great variety of materials Used for this purpose. Small glass beakers, t a lers, cellophane and waxed paper are a ie Silver, aluminium or lead foil is _per- meet the best form of cover, it being firmly ulded round the cottcn plug. any raisers treat the outside surface of the rs re Plugs after sowing to combat the grow- 8 through of fungus spores which may have “Otto ~~=] settled on the plug after inoculation. This type of contamination occurs between 6 and 9 months and can be very disconcerting to the keen raiser, therefore, prevention is better than cure. Mercuric chloride dissolved in industrial spirit at the rate of 4 grams per litre and par- tially saturate the outer surface of the plug is an admirable sterilizing agent against this form of contamination. Sterilization of Seed:—During the period which elapses between the dehiscing of the pod and the sowing of the seed, all Orchid embryos become contaminated with fungul spores, there- fore it is necessary to sterilize or, to be strictly correct, to sterilize the spores—not the seed. Wilson’s calcium hypochlorite method is uni- versally acclaimed as one of the most satisfac- tory for general Orchid culture and is prepared as follows:—10 grams of calcium hypochlorite is added to 140 ml of distilled water, shaken for a few minutes and then the solution is fil- tered. The desired amount of seed is then placed in a 4 inch x 4 inch test tube and thor- oughly shaken for 10-15 minutes, after which the seed is ready for sowing. Some cf the smal- lest Orchid seeds, i.e., Odontoglossum, Vanda, Phalaenopsis and Cattleya, can be planted by means of a medicine dropper and some workers dilute the calcium hypochlorite solution, although 1-2 ml of the solution appears to have no effect on the medium. “Chlorox,” a well-known household de- odorant and disinfectant, is an excellent steril- izing agent and much simpler to use than calcium hypochlorite. A dilution of 1.20 is suf- ficient to produce effective sterilization; the seed being shaken for 15 minutes. Hydrogen peroxide is ancther agent which can be used for the sterilizing of Orchid seeds and the regular 10 volume (3 per cent.) pur- chased from chemist shops produces excellent results, although seeds require to be shaken for 20-30 minutes. When sowing seed by the drop- per method ‘which have previously been steril- ized by H»O; (hydrogen peroxide) and “Chlorox” a reaction occurs, when sowing on La Garde’s medium, between the H3O% and and CaCl:; also the (NH:+)sCOs:H:O. ‘The writer recommends the use of the platinum wire loop in this case. Many Orchid seeds tend to clump when suspended in solution, Page 120 making planting difficult, especially by means of the platinum loop. The adition of 1 drop of Aerosol O.T. clear 25 per cent. in 25 ml of distilled water effectively disperses. the seeds. Another problem is that of the seeds sinking to the bottom of the test tube, which also ren- ders sowing difficult. The contents of the tube can be emptied on to a sheet of filter paper, which quickly absorbs the liquid leaving the seeds, which can be then readily picked up by the platinum loop. Bacteriological Precautions:—One of the most important factors connected with the sowing of Orchid seeds is the precautions necessary to effect inoculation of the container withcut allowing mould spores to settle on the medium, thus producing contamination. The air around us is heavily laden: with spores which are carried around on small particles of dust, etc., and when one or more of these spores settle on the medium conditions are satisfactory to produce germination which ulti- mately develops into fungi which quickly grow and kill the seeds. The process of inoculation should be car- ried out in a room free from draughts and the work bench should be scrupulously clean and just prior to commencement cleaned down with a solution of sterilizing agent such as hydro- gen peroxide, 3 per cent., mercuric bichloride, 1 part in 10,000, or a good household deter- gent. Hands and forearms should be likewise cleansed. Apparatus required during the oper- ation should be ready and placed in a position where it is needed. When pre-treated plugs are used they should be laid out so that the minimum of movement is necessary for them to be inserted into the flasks. A mask similar to that worn by surgeons can be worn during the actual sowing; this prevents one’s breath from disturbing the air in the vicinity of the flasks. Probably the most important feature is to do the whole process as quickly as possible, thus allowing the flasks to be open for the barest time possible. Holding the flask in a\ horizontal position, whether the medium is set with the flask upright or slanting, it is found that the tube holding the sterilized seed can be carried by the forefinger and middle finger, thus leaving the right hand free to manipulate the plug and carry out the actual inoculation by means of loop or medicine dropper as already decided. Flame the platinum loop and a portion of the glass rod, then gather a loopful of seed and quickly insert into the flask, placing the loop into the small area of water gathered at AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, DECEMBER, 1952 the base of the flask, which will release the seed from the loop. Occasionally it is necessary to add extra water to the flask\in order to effec- tively distribute the seed over the surface of the medium; this can be done by means of the medicine dropper and 1 ml per 500 ml flask generally suffices. For a similar size flask three or four loopsful of seed will be sufficient and with quick and efficient work this would neces- sitate the flask being open for 1-14 minutes. Flame the neck of the flask at the finish, thus destroying any spore which may have alighted there and then quickly insert the plug. The flasks are best kept in a green-house of incubator where a temperature of 65-75 de- grees F, can be maintained, with a relatively high humidity. The light should not be intense, but diffused, this being obtained by shading of ‘the permanent type or roller lath blinds. Avoid moving the flasks about unnecessarily as. this can cause contamination, especially when un- treated plugs are used. —Flat No. 7, 383 Maroubra Rd., Maroubra, N.S.W- © AN APPRECIATIVE CRITIC :—Mt:. J. Brown, B.Sc., writes: “I have just read the current issue of the A.O.R. and am _ particu- larly interested in the article “The Asymbioti¢ Raising of Orchid Seedlings,” by N. Breddy. This article is especially interesting because it is so detailed. However, I did notice several omissions and errors which I feel should be pointed out in case anyone without a know- ledge of chemistry tries to make up some of the solutions. The errors noted are as follow— (a) Page 99—Knudson’s B Solution:— To obtain 0.05 gm. ferric phosphate, 10 cc. (not 1 cc.) of a solution of 0.5 gm. ferri¢ phosphate in 100 cc. water. In such a solu- tion, each cc. would contain 0.5 x 1/100 gm; or 0.005 gm. ferric phosphate. We need 0.05 gm. so we would need ten cc. of a solutio# of 0.5 gm. ferric phosphate in 100 cc. water We could also achieve the same amount of ferric phosphate by taking 1 cc. of a solu tion of five grams of ferric phosphate in 10 cc. water. Each cc. of such a solution woul! contain 5 x 1/100 gm. = 0.05 gm. ferri¢ phosphate, the required amount. (b) Page 100, left column, Ist line:— A minor technicality only; the printed “m/l” should be “ml.” This is the abbrev!- ation for “millilitre,” i.e., one-thousandth of a litre. For all practical purposes, a millilitré and a cubic centimetre are identical. NN , ———— Se ee ee ee ee AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, DECEMBER, 1952 Same page and column, par. commencing Dr. Knudson, in 1946, etc.” :— The formula for manganese sulphate should have a small “‘n” after the capital “M.,” ie., it should read MnSO4H?O. The standard abbreviation for’ manganese is “Mn.” Further, since on the previous page details Were given (though incorrectly) for prepar- ing the very small amount of ferric phos- phate, then why not give details for measur- ing much smaller amounts of ferrous sul- phate and manganese sulphate? To measure 0.025 gm., ferrous sulphate heptahydrate, dissolve 2.5 gm. in 100 cc. dis- tilled water and use 1 cc. only. To measure 0.0075 gm. manganous sul- phate tetrahydrate, dissolve 0.75 gm. in 100 ce. distilled water and use 1 cc. only. . (c) Same page and column. Burgeff’s Eg. 1 medium :— From the quantities quoted, I feel sure that 500 ml. water has been omitted from the list of components for Solution B. Am I correct in this suspicion? (d) Page 100, left column, last par. :— Fourth line should read ‘glucose or suc- tose, obviously. I think the writer might have explained that sucrose is the chemical Name of our common cane sugar. (e) Same page, right column:— | In both the list of components for La Garde’s Medium, also for Nicolai’s Medium (Solution A), the word ‘ferri’ should be ferric’ for La Garde’s medium, but ‘ferrous’ in the present ‘ferri sulphate FeSO'7H:O’ In Solution A of Nicolai’s medium. The for- mula for Ferric sulphate is Fe?(SO*)*, it has no water of hydration. _Also, in the paragraph commencing ‘After dilution in the distilled water, etc.’ the in- Structions are to add twenty gm. sucrose or ten gm. glucose. While I am aware that sucrose, on hydrolysis, breaks up into equal Parts of glucose and fructose, should the in- Structions not read ‘20 gm. sucrose or twenty gm. glucose? The instructions given are pos- sibly correct, but I would like to have them Confirmed if possible. . Please do not think me pedantic for point- ng out actual and possible discrepancies in the eaucle; but I know from grim experience the ane of irate exasperation which results from Roving incorrect instructions, especially in a oi which is admittedly difficult to all except Tained individuals. The article, I feel sure, Will supply a long-needed source of detailed Page 121 information for those, like myself, who have been trying to find information on_ various methods of asymbiotic cultivation of Orchids. I should be grateful if Mr. Breddy would give his comments on the above list; I only hope that if anyone does attempt to mix any of the different media from the formulae listed in Mr. Breddy’s article that he will realize and correct any discrepancy like those I have pointed out.’—View St., opp. Wallace St., Sefton, N.S.W. ' rye oe V.O.C.—to September 30th, 1952. Vanda coerulea var. Tweedieae—Mrs. M. Tweedie—H.C.C.; Cypripedium x Kirksley. var. Marjorie—Mr. A. E. Kirkbright—A.M. ; Cypripedium x Huntava—Mr. J. King— A.M.; Cypripedium x Menthule—Mr. A. E. Kirkbright—A.M.; Laeliocattleya x Hertha— Mr. E. Petersen—A.M.; Odontoglossum x | Tolcarne—Mr. E. Petersen—H.C.C.; Cypri- _pedium x Redrush—Mr. A. E. Kirkbright— H.C.C.; Cypripedium x Angel Luscombe— Messrs. Jones Bros.—H.C.C.; Ble. x Havant var. Dianne—Mr. J. Rosewarne—A.M.; Cymbidium x Girrahween var. Enid—Mr. W. W. Wright, Snr.—A.M.; Cymbidium x Cas- sandra var. McArthur—Mr. J. McArthur— H.C.C.; Cymbidium x Ceres var. F. J. Han- bury—Mr. J. McArthur—Award of Distinc- tion.—R. Vick: wi © The District Exhibits at the O.S. of N.S.W. Festival, 1952, collectively, were better than those of previous Festivals, the scenic displays of four of them counteracting the formal ap- pearance of the show benches, as well as add- ing “life” to the surroundings in general. | © The quality of the Cymbidiums at the Orchid Festival, 1952, was equal to, if not better than, that of former exhibitions; the show types being very attractive. The self- coloured varieties were fresh in appearance and concentrated in coloration. Many handsome decorative kinds were continually admired. ® The Gravel Culture of Cattleyas, by W. A. Service—a correction: Owing to a typo- graphical error in the last paragraph of page 83, Australian Orchid Review, Vol. 17, No. 3, 1952 (Sept.), the following subject matter of the sub-title “Root Growth” was omitted, “This ig very vigorous and, in the case of plants that have been grown in gravel for some years, it is of note that active roots are present on all the back-bulbs. Pseudo-bulb Growth.” Then read “The pseudo-bulbs, etc.” Page 122 AUSTRALIAN ORCHID REVIEW, DECEMBER, 1952 Some Factors Influencing the Growth of Orchids Sir HUGH R. G. POATE © Although the Orchid Society of N.S.W. officially came into existence on August 7, 1934, it was sufficiently well founded by January, 1936, to undertake the publication of the Australian Orchid Review. It is well worth while going through the early issues, as there is much of interest and one can see how ideas and fashions change, particularly with regard to composts. Over the years the majority of growers who sent in articles to the A.O.R. are in general agreement that most Orchids are benefited by occasional extra nourishment other than that in the compost, but the impor- tant questions to be answered are what to give, when to give it, how much and how often. A full understanding of how and why a plant develops and makes use of the various elements necessary to its growth is really neces- sary to realize what nutrition means, but is beyond the scope of this paper and has been well explained by many writers and particu- larly by Mr. Murray Cox in various articles, especially that in A.O.R., Vol. 4, No. 4, of December, 1939. If production of flowers is the main con- sideration, as it probably is with most growers, it is almost, if not more, important than the use of fertilizers to see (1) that the leaves have free access to light and are kept clean, (2) that there is provision for ample aeration in both the atmospheric conditions as well as in the compost and (3) that there is an ade- quate water supply with correct conditions re- garding humidity. Flowering is dependent on the formation of the carbohydrates or sugars, a function carried out in and by the leaves and not in the roots, except those plants with aerial roots which can be seen to have the green chlorophyll in them. Mr. Leo Giles in a recent article has told us how the quality of the:light determines the colour of Cymbidiums—the reds requiring full light, but the greens need shady conditions to bring their correct toning. The first golden rule then is never to crowd your plants, but give them plenty of fresh air and the full amount of light required for each species. Secondly, the compost must be open and well aerated to supply the vitally important oxygen required by the roots in their work. A heavy compost holds water, which drives out all the oxygen so that the roots, being unable to func