Martin, I suggest a slightly different approach - maybe a bit philosophical but that no doubt comes from trying to grow orchids while in the military and going from Seattle to Killeen, Texas to Denver to Deep Cut, NJ, etc. ... and 'sharing' the house with a wife who became just as crazy for orchids, a couple of cats that liked to 'graze' on them and 4 children who took a bit of time.
What do you want from your growing? After you decide this then go and talk with the many fine Orchid Houses in TN, KY and GA. The AOS listing by state is a good place to start. You also might want to make a visit in IN at Hilltop (Cloverdale) and Hoosier Orchid (Indianapolis). 1. Do you want some flowers for most of the year? Pick ones that remain in blossom for a long time and (normally) flower at different times of the year. 2. How much space can/will you (initially) dedicate and will you grow under lights? Small amount of space and you want lots of plants. Contact J & L Orchids in Easton, CT for some very fine smaller specie. 3. How much time are you willing to give to the collection? Do you want only a couple of big 'Things' that take up half the room - then contact Santa Barbara Orchid Estate for a couple of Cymbidium monsters - the big specimen plants will cost a buck or two but they should do very nicely in a cool room. 4. Do you want some pretty foliage while waiting for the blossoms? Got no suggestions here except something in the Ludisa (is this still the valid name?) family - Hoosier has some nice 'stuff.' 5. How far are you willing to go to make enough humidity? 6. Are you an obsessive type? Start with one and then you hang plastic sheeting in your living room to create the 'right' growing conditions? Some of you out there know what I mean. Jerry in IN _______________________________________________ the OrchidGuide Digest (OGD) orchids@orchidguide.com http://orchidguide.com/mailman/listinfo/orchids_orchidguide.com
