AboutOrchids

This month brings major orchid shows in Tokyo, Miami, and here in San Francisco. There are also big flower shows in Philadelphia and Atlanta. And there are plenty of shows on Valentine’s weekend so your sweetheart can have fresh orchid blooms. February 3 – 7 Asociacion Guatemalateca de Orquideologia Show, Cerveceria Centroamericana Salon, Jose Arzu […]

In case you thought we only took pictures of orchids at Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden, I’ve got proof to the contrary. Personally, I’m fascinated by all manner of flora and fauna, but even the most devoted orchid snob would pause for these sights. Of course, there were more astounding orchids also, like the sweet smelling […]

Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden is my idea of orchid heaven. A few years ago, Dave and I discovered it by accident as we took a detour onto a scenic road on the Big Island of Hawaii. Now it’s one of our favorite destinations, and a glance at these photos will tell you why. Located in […]

It’s time for an exercise with your imagination. Before you start with Dave’s incredible photos from our recent trip to the Big Island of Hawaii, envision warm tropical weather and a welcoming spirit of aloha. Imagine sweet scents perfuming the air. You’re in the midst of the natural paradise of Art and Orchids Bed and […]

People often ask me whether to water their orchids with ice cubes. While I know using ice can work for some orchids, I advise against it. Cold water can damage flowers, leaves, and roots. Most commonly sold orchids originate from the tropics, where they never experience anything close to freezing temps. Even orchids that come […]

Ok, so it’s not really Jurassic Park, just the Tree Fern Garden in Golden Gate Park. But this small corner of San Francisco sure feels prehistoric. Having grown up with cold northeastern winters, I only saw ferns as houseplants until I moved to California. Seeing a fern the size of a tree still makes me […]

January’s chilly start has been perfect for this beautiful Arpophyllum. Here on the California coast, this Cattleya relative is blooming outdoors on our back deck, and it’s easy to see how it acquired the nickname “Hyacinth Orchid.” This gorgeous plant was a gift from Dave’s parents, and it’s proving to be a reliable bloomer over […]

If that beautiful orchid you received as a holiday present is now causing you panic attacks and nightmares, take a deep breath. With some basic care info, you’ll realize that many orchids are tough plants, and their finicky reputation is a myth. It will help to identify your orchid to determine its specific light, temperature, […]

Combat the winter blahs with a quick tropical getaway to an orchid show. You’ll enjoy beautiful and exotic flowers, meet local growers and experts, and be able to take home blooms that can last for months. As if you needed another reason to visit magnificent Longwood Gardens near Philly, their upcoming Orchid Extravaganza lasts through […]