This unique collection of orchid photographs emerges from a very unique year of orchid growing: 2020. That probably says enough for most people to understand. In addition to the human-related dramas of the year, we experienced some extreme weather to add to our orchid growing … [Read more...] about A Triumph of Beauty: 10 exceptional alba orchids of 2020
Orchid Culture Notes
I am a compulsive teacher, and my higher life calling reflects in my orchid growing. As I discover solutions and new ideas, I wish to benefit others with that awareness. I hope my experiences can offer insights, ways of thinking about orchid culture, and provide a foundation for adaptation in your growing space. Innovation can expand into even more innovation.
Horizontal orchid mounts: the benefits of “mini orchid logs”
We are always looking for ways to improve our orchid culture and create optimal growing conditions for our plants. Over the years, we have realized that growers sometimes attempt to simulate aspects of the natural environment while neglecting more subtle details -- which make a significant … [Read more...] about Horizontal orchid mounts: the benefits of “mini orchid logs”
Sarcochilus ceciliae
A sparkling pink flower in profusion! While Sarcochilus ceciliae is known to be a sequential bloomer, this particular flowering opened the majority of its blooms at once, for a notable display on a small plant. For scale, that's a 4" (10cm) Vanda basket in the photograph. The crystalline quality … [Read more...] about Sarcochilus ceciliae
Growing beyond orchid taxonomy troubles? A new view of species, hybrids, horticulture, and science
I invite you to step aboard a unique boat for a reflective journey across the troubled waters of orchid taxonomy, seen through my eyes as an orchid grower and former biogeographer and social scientist. I lend my own complex intellectual taxonomy to this subject with the intention of illuminating … [Read more...] about Growing beyond orchid taxonomy troubles? A new view of species, hybrids, horticulture, and science
Getting to 100%: a two step method for orchid virus disinfection (CymMV, ORSV) of repotting tools
The title of this article evokes a key, but often missed question: how effective is your process for disinfecting your cutting tools for orchid viruses? We have used bleach, flaming, and Physan 20 for years, and I assumed that they were completely effective in removing virus particles from our … [Read more...] about Getting to 100%: a two step method for orchid virus disinfection (CymMV, ORSV) of repotting tools
Virus testing an (entire) orchid collection for CymMV & ORSV: the surprising results at AEO
Orchid viruses are one of the "known mysteries" in orchid growing and collection. They are widely recognized as a concern; any thorough repotting demo or orchid culture talk implores the audience to take precautions to disinfect cutting tools, pots, and prevent cross-contamination on potting … [Read more...] about Virus testing an (entire) orchid collection for CymMV & ORSV: the surprising results at AEO
From potted orchid to mounted orchid: an innovation using cork tubes
This cultural note offers my sudden inspiration for how to better mount an orchid that is growing in a small pot (or basket). I came upon this innovation while burrowing through my pieces of cork bark, looking for the right size and shape piece for a Dockrillia (Dendrobium) rigida that had been … [Read more...] about From potted orchid to mounted orchid: an innovation using cork tubes
Feed the orchids! Details of my fertilizer program for different genera
One of the aspects of orchid culture that has frustrated me over the years is the description of fertilizer applications for different species and genera. I wonder if the authors, many of whom are quite accomplished growers, realize that their recommendations actually aren't very usable? The key … [Read more...] about Feed the orchids! Details of my fertilizer program for different genera
