And the Orchid Collection grows...

[chucknora]

So, a week or so ago I got my first orchid. There's a post around here somewhere... Anyway! I love it, and have since fallen in love with the many different shapes, sizes, colors and personalities of them.

I mentioned to my husband (who thinks I'm very busy and don't need anymore hobbies) that Publix has more orchids, and some are very beautiful. He said "Well, you're going to have to find a place where you can set them up."

... WHAT?!... That was the last thing I expected. So I've been scanning my house, looking through the "Phal abuse stops here" thread and trying to plan out my new orchid space. It's a lot of fun.

So what I need now is orchid growers in the south, mainly Florida. I'm thinking they may hang on my back porch. It faces East, but there are trees in the back yard. So if they will get direct sunlight it'll be for 5-10 minutes max, in the early morning.

Thoughts?

[cbuchman]

Sounds like a plan! Consider a min-max thermometer and a light meter to take readings very so often. That way you can set up some parameters for you buying. You'll also know the spots on your porch that get more/less sun or are hotter/hottest and you will be ready to place your new orchids in the optimum locations for their continued happiness.

Once you purchase, watch your plants carefully. Too much sun is typically evidenced by a reddish hue on the leaves. Although the color won't go away, you want to get them out of the sun as soon as/if you notice it, so that there isn't worse damage.

lastly, be sure to post pictures of what you buy and let us share in your success!

[bballr4567]

What I would honestly suggest is to try to find some named orchids. Buying NOIDs, while fun and usually plentiful, really hurts the species and proper hybrids. Most Lowe's and Home Depot's carry named orchids.


Of course, if its just amazing looking, you must buy it. lol

[chucknora]

Today my husband is paying for the orchid I picked from Orchidbabies.com. It's Paphiopedilum charlesworthii x [Red Sky x Flame Arrow]. So I'll have to do some reading about Paphs, since I only own a Phal.

[Gage]

Welcome to the club, and congrats on your new Paph! In what part of Florida do you live?

[chucknora]

Thanks! We are in Pinellas County.