What do you think the best overall orchid book is?

[Orchonubee]

I have purchased 6 Orchid books so far in my few years in the hobby. Since I favor Dendrobium, I have obtained Orchid Sepecies Culture, Vol 2 Dendrobium, which has helped me greatly as it gives the growing conditions in the orchid's native habitat. This book, while out of print, is available if you are persistant on google.
The other book I refer to frequently is The Practical Enchclopedia of Orchids By Brian & Wilma Rittershausen.
I too have the Ortho book, which was my first purchase, and for the money it's quite good.

[Ross]

Someone want to post a quick main page message that lists all these references? I think a reference manual list would be of use to many including newcomers.

[Ironwood]

Orchids Simplified by Henry Jaworski is a good book and Orchid Growing for Wimps by Ellen Zachos is an excellent book for beginners as it gives a list of easy to grow orchids. The book also has many comparison charts for length of bloom, water requirements, light requirements and that sort of thing so it is much easier to make comparisons over different genera.

[Orchonubee]

I just received a copy of Flora's Orchids. Wow! It is by far the best of the several orchid books I've have. For those that recommended it - Thank you

[Barbara]

Originally Posted by Orchonubee

I just received a copy of Flora's Orchids. Wow! It is by far the best of the several orchid books I've have. For those that recommended it - Thank you

I agree completely, very beautiful book with good photography and layout. Perhaps a little lean on info, but there's only so much that can fit in a book such as this.

[esungirl]

Botanica's 1200 is my all time favorite, especially if you're into species. Sue is right it is more of a reference book, but wow ! The spine on mine is breaking down.

[Orchonubee]

I now have both Flora's Orchids and Botanica's Orchids. Both are excellent, and kind of compliment each other. I believe they will serve me well, as I get more and more involved in the world of orchids.