Bringing Orchids Into Your Life and Heart

Nowadays, we have a wonderful choice of plants available to us, whether for decorating our homes or brightening up our offices. Further, we never tire of them, regardless of how familiar they become; in fact, we seek out more of them, and want to add new ones to our home and work places.

Flowers especially have a powerful effect on most human beings. Lots and lots of folks are undeniably drawn to the aristocratic orchid, among all the flowers in the world.

Orchids are called "conquerers of the light" by some. They astonish upon first encounter and continue thereafter to exert a profound fascination. Nature has been extra kind to the orchids. Their flowers are elegant and bright. The orchid's odor is a sweet one, but it is never cloying. Their texture is then, which misleads many into assuming they are delicate. Yet they can last longer after being cut than many another ornamental bloom. Really, the only thing they "lack" from the standpoint of aesthetics is thick foliage. But this is not a serious deficiency: one can always fill the space around them with fern leaves for an attractive arrangement.

For a long time, people assumed taht these wonderful flowers were too delicate to grow with ease. This was a mistake. It's not as difficult as many people assume to cultivate orchids; in fact, many hobbyist growers can outperform professionals when it comes to producing extraordinarily striking plants. The key is to study up first, using a good modern guide to the art and science of orchids and orchid growing. By getting educated on the subject, you can assure yourself of success.

It is a common myth--yet a myth nonetheless--that orchids require high heat to thrive. Not true! Certainly, most orchids come from the tropics ultimately. However, a large number of them in their native habitats grow high on mountainsides exposed to cool, crisp air. Subjecting such plants to high temperatures would retard their development--if it didn't kill them.

Whether you consider yourself a green thumb or not, you can grow these loveliest of flowers. Imagine "gifting" a lover or friend with an orchid that you grew yourself. Envision yourself growing breathtaking orchids so nearly perfect that they win prizes. Picture yourself going so far with your orchid growing hobby that it becomes a business, perhaps one big enough to provide you with a living. These things are all possible to you, even as an orchid newbie.

One of the best and most complete guides to modern orchid growing is undoubtedly Orchid Care Expert by Nigel Howard, available online. Now, there's tons of information out there about orchids. But Howard's is the most complete all-in-one reference that I've ever seen. You might also want to visit the Orchid Secrets web site, which has a growing database of articles on all aspects of orchids.

Here's to a great orchid experience!