On Growing Orchids
At one time growing orchids was a hobby for the wealthy, requiring a greenhouse and attentive care. Today you can buy some orchids very inexpensively in your local stores. They are often sold with the other blooming plants you can enjoy and discard. But orchids are more than that - there are many, many kinds that can appeal to a wide variety of tastes. Some can be very easy to grow, almost weeds, and some will challenge the expert.
You can start by learning to grow the Phalaenopsis orchid then move on to include other varieties. You will find many other varieties will grow in your home environment. If you join a local orchid society, you will find a lot of like minded people who will be happy to share their experience and their plants. Attending an orchid show will astonish you with the variety of sizes, forms and colors of orchids. And you will find the many vendors of orchids you do not find in the local store.
Welcome to a journey of discovery that is that wonderful world of orchids.
Below are photos of some of the types of orchids readily available and that will grow in a home environment on a windowsill or under lights.
Phalaenopsis (fal-en-OP-siss) or Moth orchids come in white, pink, red, yellow, plain or with spots or stripes. The plants can be large or small, with a single stem or branching.
Paphiopedilum (paff-i-e-PEE-di-lum) or Ladyslipper orchids come in many sizes and colors, single flower or multi-floral.
Cattleya (KAT-lee-a) orchids come in many sizes and colors, single flower or multi-floral. In some miniatures the flower can be the same size as the plant.
An orchid show display of a few orchids.
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