Hello From SE PA

[Subrosa]

Hi, new member here! I've been a gardener almost all my life but I'm a complete novice when it comes to orchids. I do almost all of my gardening outdoors in zone 6B, and don't like to plant non-native species where they could escape, so my options in orchids are rather limited! But I have recently started an in ground bog garden and I was delighted to discover the many native species which grow in those conditions. Now if I could just find some! I hope being here will help me in that endeavor, along with some good knowledge to go along with the plants. And maybe I can contribute a little along the way! Thanks!

[DelawareJim]

Welcome aboard. You'll find a great bunch of people here. Where exactly are you. From Chester county myself, near the Delaware line.

Actually, the sky's the limit for orchids here. The climate on the whole is pretty nice for growing just about anything you want as long as you have room to bring them all in come fall. I know, you're talking about native orchids. A good start is Spiranthes odorata 'Chadd's Ford' a native discovered in Bear, Delaware. Available anywhere and very, very easy to grow. Lots of Cypripediums are available on-line if you're willing to shell out the money.
Bletillas are inexpensive and easy to grow although not native. Mine have not been invasive.

John Tullock published a book on growing hardy orchids that provides good advice and lists sources in the back. You should be able to find his book in the library.
Growing Hardy Orchids:Amazon:Books

Cheers.
Jim

[Ray]

Welcome from Bucks County, too!

Where are you located? There's a "Wild Orchid Company" near me. Dr. Bill Mathis has all sorts of orchids suitable for naturalization.

[RosieC]

Welcome to Orchid Board

[Subrosa]

Thanks for the welcome everyone! I managed to find a Spiranthes odorata at a local pond and garden supply, but their overall selection is pretty slim. I may well be selling them some plants next season! I'm just outside of Norristown, and I did find The Wild Orchid Company, but they're sold out for the season. Too bad, because I'm attending a bbq right there in Carversville this Saturday. Maybe I'll try calling and seeing if "sold out" is REALLY sold out!

[WhiteRabbit]

[Carpe Diem]

[maroonmudskipper]

Displaced Monroe County native here! I'm always excited to see other Pennsylvanians!

[Subrosa]

Originally Posted by maroonmudskipper

Displaced Monroe County native here! I'm always excited to see other Pennsylvanians!

Thanks! I used to live in the Highland Park section of Pittsburgh back in the mid 80s.

[Jayfar]

Originally Posted by Subrosa

Thanks! I used to live in the Highland Park section of Pittsburgh back in the mid 80s.

I was from Greater Pgh for the first half of my life: Emsworth, West View, Oakland, West Mifflin, Pitcairn, but Philly since '80.