AboutOrchids

Orchids are providing a valuable perspective on climate change. Dried flowers are kept in museums and herbaria around the globe, and include records of collection dates. A British group of scientists checked specimens up to 150 years old, and found that the Early Spider Orchid, native to southern and western Europe, has been blooming 6 […]

To celebrate the arrival of fall, here are some garden beauties: Autumn arrives in the Northern Hemisphere with a chill, shorter days, and some orchid chores. As temperatures drop, bring warm growers inside. Remove any dead leaves or weeds. Check for pests, especially those hiding on the undersides of leaves. I spray orchid plants and […]

For almost 90 years, the American Orchid Society (AOS) has promoted orchid enjoyment, education, research, and conservation. Now, like many of us, this great non-profit organization is struggling in the slow economy. If you’re not a member already, you can help by joining the AOS. Members receive benefits such as the award-winning magazine Orchids. Along […]

Dave and I snapped some nice shots at last weekend’s “Orchids in the Park.” This annual exhibition and sale, courtesy of the San Francisco Orchid Society, is held at the County Fair Building in Golden Gate Park. The impressive blooms included a large yellow Paph, a harlequin Phal, and an unusual Dendrobium. Orchids in the […]

With the incredible size and diversity of the orchid family, surprises abound. So when basic orchid care info says that orchids are epiphytes, or air plants, keep in mind that there are exceptions to the rule. Some orchid varieties are terrestrials, or ground orchids, and grow in soil. Terrestrials grow in forests, meadows, grasslands, marshes, […]

Repotting an orchid while it’s blooming often causes the flowers to drop, so it’s best to wait until the flowers have finished. But what happens if an orchid just won’t stop blooming? That’s the “problem” I have with this Kefersteinia. It’s been in bloom for over a year now, and it’s messing up my repotting […]

Dozens of orchid shows take place around the globe this month. They all provide great opportunities to see and smell amazing flowers, talk to orchid experts, check out vendors, and meet local growers. Warning: you may get hooked on orchids (if you’re not already.) September 1 – 4 Cumberland Orchid Circle, Caroline Chisholm Dr., Winston […]