As regards shading none of these plants like the hot sun, but they need all the light that can be given them, without exposing them to bright sunshine. The blinds ought never to be let down when there is no sun, as the shade will draw them up dwindling and weakly, whereas if they have plenty of light they grow robust, and bring better flowers of a finer colour. This is the case with those at Broomfield, as Mr. Warner uses a very thin shading, and being in a fine open country place they get the pure air and clear light which is so beneficial to them. We believe the plants delight in this treatment, for we do not often see them doing so well in close places or in large towns as when they are located a few miles in the country. Most Orchids, indeed, thrive, fairly well in towns, provided their wants are attended to, but the treatment of course should be different, as when grown in close places they require more ventilation, and all the light that can be secured, whereas when grown in a country place like Broomfield, observation and experience must decide as to the necessities of the locality and its surroundings. Even then the cultivator requires much practice and forethought, in order to produce the best results, especially as the temperature varies so much in different situations: for instance, when, on the one hand, the houses are on a high hill exposed to all weathers, or, on the other hand, are in a sheltered spot on a hill-side, or in a valley, in all which localities there will be experienced considerable differences of temperature and light. The sun, moreover, varies in power. Orchid growers should find out the peculiarities of place and climate in which they are placed, and act accordingly. This is one of the great secrets in the successful cultivation of all plants, not of Orchids only; and in order to ensure success, all those points must be studied and acted on. Many growers are fully aware of these requirements, but others are not so well informed.
_Masdevallias_ are free-growing and free-rooting plants, and are easily increased by dividing the tufts just as they are about to make their growth; but it must not be expected that these will flower well until they get established, which they will do best in small pots after being divided. The second year the growth will be stronger and as they get established larger pots may be given to them as required. Rough fibrous peat, sphagnum moss, and good drainage should be given, and the roots must be kept moist. Insects should be kept under. They are subject to attacks of green fly on their young growths and flower spikes, and of thrips on the leaves, which must be kept under, or the growth will be crippled.