Archive for the 'Growing' Category

Cochleanthes: An Orchid From the Amazon

Saturday, August 29th, 2015

I bought this gorgeous Cochleanthes at an orchid show five years ago, and it has been one of my most reliable bloomers ever since. Its captivating white flowers boast great purple highlights. This species is native to the Amazon Rainforest, from Brazil to Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. The flowers appear fragile, but they’re thick […]

Orchid Care For A Hot Summer

Friday, June 5th, 2015

Summer is coming, and it looks like it’s going to be a hot one. Orchids can survive heat waves with some basic care tips. Check these helpful hints when temperatures soar. Give orchids water when they dry out, but be careful not to drown your plants. High humidity is more important than repeated waterings in […]

Lepanthopsis – Tiny Orchids With a Long Name

Thursday, May 28th, 2015

Tiny Lepanthopsis astrophora has a name that’s bigger than the plant itself. This miniature orchid species is an eager bloomer, with lots of flowers resembling little purple stars. Fortunately, this small Masdevallia relative is easier to grow than it is to pronounce. It’s a challenge to get pictures of these mini blossoms, which seem to […]

The Coconut Orchid

Friday, May 15th, 2015

Whatever the Coconut Orchid lacks in showiness, it makes up with fragrance. This tropical species features brilliant red flowers, but they’re often hidden in the foliage. However, their sweet coconut scent always gives them away. Coconut Orchids are easy to grow, and with their delicious aroma, they are popular choices for orchid lovers. Their deep […]

Mother’s Day Orchid Care

Sunday, May 10th, 2015

With brilliant colors and fascinating shapes, orchids have become favorite gifts for Mother’s Day. Don’t worry if you don’t have a green thumb; most orchids don’t deserve their finicky reputations. A few care basics can help you enjoy your tropical flowers for a long time. To get the most out of your gift, check these […]

It’s Easy to Love Masdevallia Orchids

Sunday, March 29th, 2015

It’s no wonder why we love Masdevallia orchids. These two stunning examples are now in bloom on our patio, with their big, neon flowers atop tall stems, bobbing in the breeze. Thanks to Dave’s great photography, it’s easy to enjoy their charms. Believe it or not, both of these plants are the same species, Masdevallia […]

Valentine’s Orchids

Saturday, February 14th, 2015

Orchids have become essential for Valentine’s Day. If your celebration of love includes a gift orchid, check the care tips below. What kind is it? –  Identify your orchid to learn more about its care needs. Phals, or Moth Orchids, are the most common types. Other popular varieties include Cattleyas, Cymbidiums, Dendrobiums, Oncidiums, and Paphs. […]

Den Phal Orchids

Friday, January 23rd, 2015

Are they Phals or Dendrobiums?  Den Phals are Dendrobiums, and they’re very popular orchids. Also called Phalaenopsis-type Dendrobiums, or Phalanthe-type Dendrobiums, their confusing names derive from their resemblance to Phal flowers. They represent a small section of the large Dendrobium family, but they’ve become some of the most commonly cultivated varieties. Den Phals come in […]

Gift Orchid Care

Sunday, December 28th, 2014

If you’re enjoying a beautiful gift orchid, but wondering how to take care of it, you’ve found the right place. Despite their reputations as difficult plants, orchids are easy. Check the orchid care tips below the photos to learn how to keep your plant happy. Identify your orchid –  Different orchids have different care needs, […]

Giant Hyacinth Orchid

Wednesday, November 26th, 2014

With dense clusters of little purple blooms, this looks like a hyacinth. On closer inspection, however, each flower reveals itself as a tiny, perfect orchid. Known as the Giant Hyacinth Orchid, this has been a very reliable bloomer in our garden, opening in late autumn and continuing for several months into winter. This year’s incredible […]