The American Orchid Society has just released a book that is affordably priced, has hundreds of breathtaking photographs, and is chock full of expert advice. This handy little guide was written with the help of dozens of recognized authorities and its timing coincides with the organization’s upcoming 100th anniversary.
Q) I am an ‘amateur’ grower of Phalaenopsis. I have 12 pots and all seem very healthy with
bright green leaves. My problem is they are not blooming. Some haven’t bloomed in 3-4 years!
My house doesn’t have much light so I’ve added grow lights. Jane E.
Q) I’m intrigued by Oncidium orchids. Are they as easy to grow as Phals? Trish B.
A) The look of a Dancing Lady orchid is exotic. Each flower is a masterpiece and the best the
industry has to offer.
Q) My favorite orchid has unsightly color streaks on the flowers and I’m worried. What could this be?
Nate D.
A) Mere mention of the words Odontoglossom Ring Spot or Cymbidium Mosaic send chills through most growers for these are dreaded orchid viruses with no known cure. Symptoms include streaky leaves and flowers as well as compromised plant vigor. In most cases, the affected epiphytes are thrown out.
Healthy orchids are free of all plant viruses whose symptoms can include loss of vigor and unsightly markings in the foliage and flowers.
Sometimes it’s nice to share a success story of an everyday guy who grows orchids on his windowsill. I suppose he’s not quite an everyday guy. His name is Howard ‘Buddy’ Wiles III and he is an Obstetrics and Gynecology doctor in Richmond. Although he doesn’t have any professional orchid training, he has figured out a way to grow and bloom Phalaenopsis in his office window year after year.
