Hello from 19 below in Minnesota!

[19 Below!]

Yes, I was hoping I could manage the humidity/water issue via the planting medium. Spending much time just looking at plants....still too cold really to ship safely I feel..

[Leafmite]

You might look into Zygopetalum. Some are cooler growers which are perfect for keeping indoors as they prefer the temperatures that make us feel comfortable. Many of them bloom multiple times a year and they actually do very well in air conditioning. Here in Ohio, I have decent summers and put all the Cattleyas and other orchids outside but the Zygos stay inside and enjoy the air conditioning. They do not seem to mind the low humidity.

[Roberta]

A suggestion... mini-Catts. They are extremely forgiving of just about everything... bred for windowsill growing in terms of size, happy outside in good weather but also happy indoors if that's where they are, really don't care much about humidity either. And some brilliant colors, bloom 2 times a year in many cases, Take a look at Sunset Valley Orchids Great plants, and Fred Clarke (the owner) is extremely responsive, very willing with answers to questions. They do sell out quickly so if you see something you want, buy it and get it held for better weather. You can get the email list for the "drop" of new offerings. Also Diamond Orchids

[19 Below!]

Thanks for the suggestions...I am checking them all out.
Roberta...showed DH your pics...his response...
"This is NOT someone to emulate"....he knows me too well....I had already been eyeing the spare bedroom.

[Roberta]

Too late... orchid addiction is incurable.

[PuiPuiMolcar]

Welcome!

[Mountaineer370]

Originally Posted by 19 Below!

Thanks for the suggestions...I am checking them all out.
Roberta...showed DH your pics...his response...
"This is NOT someone to emulate"....he knows me too well....I had already been eyeing the spare bedroom.

[19 Below!]

Thanks again all...waiting for books, and checking the websites. So much out there and so much to learn.