Country Life in America Volume 6 (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1904 Excerpt: ... on; yet they should be sheltered from draughts. They should have plenty of light, but in Brazil it is filtered through the leaves of the landlord tree, so the direct rays of the sun had better be avoided in midsummer. In their native land, most orchids experience a wet season, when they grow and bloom, and a dry season, when they are dormant; and that should be their treatment under cultivation. I have kept them wet and growing the year round, for I had not the heart to dry them off; but they did not bloom the next winter. The roots of the plants should be wrapped and packed in sphagnum, or some moss-like material which will hold moisture. I find "Jadoo" fiber is very good. Then they should be firmly wired upon a block of wood. A chunk from the woodpile with the bark on is artistic. They should be dipped in water, at least as warm as the air, daily during the growing season, for the great points are uniform temperature and moisture. The least exacting orchid is probably our native Florida variety, Epidendrum venosum, the "butterfly orchid." It has beautiful clusters of pink and greenish chocolate blossoms, and is about as hardy as a geranium. Another hardy native is Epidendrum conopseum, but its blossom is small and not especially attractive. Nearly as easily satisfied is Caltleya Trianaei, probably the most popular orchid in cultivation, and one of the finest winter bloomers. Laelia anceps can also be attempted with confidence. Having flowered these successfully, the amateur will be amply repaid for his venture into the orchid mysteries, if he never gets any further. But the probability is that he will be unable to stop there. San Jose, Cal. F. H. Babb. SOME FAMOUS OLD RECIPES COMPILED BY GEORGIA HARMONY KEEN This is not an ordinary co...