As the largest and most diverse flower family, orchids can be overwhelming. To make them more manageable, many growers specialize. With 30,000 species, and over 150,000 hybrids, there are countless ways to find a niche in the orchid world. Here are a few: Collect mini’s – Miniature orchids are short on stature, but full of [...]
Can’t decide which orchid to choose for your valentine? With tens of thousands of orchid varieties, it can be a monumental task. Fortunately, AboutOrchids is here to help. Below are three common types which will find their mark like cupid’s arrow. Happy orchid shopping! Phals, or Moth Orchids, are the most popular orchids sold. With good [...]
The American Orchid Society (AOS) proudly offers their beautiful 2013 wall calendar. For just $14.95 ($13.50 for AOS members,) it’s easy to enjoy gorgeous orchids in constant bloom — no water, fertilizer, or repotting necessary. The 2013 AOS calendar has 14 months of orchids in the wild, and $2 from each calendar purchase funds conservation [...]
When I think of Santa Barbara, I think of Cymbidiums. Recently Dave traveled there for work, and he found plenty to photograph at the Santa Barbara Orchid Estate (SBOE). With 5 acres (2 hectares) of gardens in a mild coastal climate, it’s no surprise that Cymbidiums thrive there. But Cymbidiums are only part of the [...]
Orchid make beautiful, elegant, and fashionable Valentine gifts. Whether for love or friendship, they’re popular holiday flowers. However, picking the best one can be tricky. Orchid buying tips can be helpful for smart shoppers, but many orchid purchases aren’t about logic. Most of us have succumbed to the impulse buy. For me, it usually involves [...]
As the world’s largest and most diverse plant family, orchids provide a great way to personalize your gift choice. There’s an orchid that’s right for just about everyone. If you’re buying a gift for an over-waterer, try a Cymbidium, Masdevallia, Miltonia, Paph, or Vanda. These types need daily watering. For an under-waterer, try a Cattleya, [...]
Even if you don’t have a green thumb, you can have beautiful orchids all year with orchid wall calendars. The American Orchid Society’s 2012 calendar contains a year’s worth of mini orchids. The Orchid Conservation Alliance’s 2012 calendar (front cover pictured below) has photos and stories of a dozen of the world’s most endangered orchids. [...]
Orchids starter kits have been around for years, often sold alongside starter kits for other tropical plants. They’re a clever sales solution for tropical areas like Hawaii, where strict rules apply for plant export. The plants are packaged by certified nurseries, and they can be quickly checked by airport agricultural inspectors. Sometimes they’re baby orchids [...]
Ever since orchids exploded in popularity in Europe in the 1850′s, orchid lovers have crossbred them. By blending genes of different species, and then choosing the best and sturdiest offspring, breeders have developed combinations with hybrid vigor. Complementary traits from both parents produce tougher plants. Hybrids are easy to grow and flower, and hardy enough [...]
Orchids are top picks for Mother’s Day gifts. Whether you’re buying an orchid for mom to keep short-term or long-term, there’s no lack of choices. Those sold in supermarkets and department stores are hybrids, bred to be tough. Phals are the most common variety. Their blooms can last for months with good basic orchid care. [...]
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