just want to say hello
 

Hello! I just registered and thought I'd introduce myself. I'd been checking this site for the past several days, and I have to say I've already learned a lot! Don't know if "latebloomer" is the best username, but I guess it will have to do!

Up until 2 years ago I was an avid african violet collector before. For the most part the violets fluorished under my care. Now orchids...?? Someone told me that if I could grow violets then I should be able to grow orchids. I had some phals, one slipper orchid and one sharry baby. I haven't had them a year when I moved to my small 1-bedroom apartment, which unfortunately, faces north. I never did find out how I'd do with orchids. I sadly left my collection (av and orchids) where they were growing happily.

I resisted getting back into plants as I knew my place was too small, and too dark besides. Then on Valentine's Day, I was given a phal. Since then, I'd been surfing the net to read up on them (but I resisted going to shows because we all know what happens there!) I did buy one more phal since then, and I think a third one's in order! They are doing well so far, but then again, it has only been 3 months. I hope I'll have the same success with orchids as I've had with violets. Only time will tell, and I will keep consulting this forum! These are truly beautiful plants!

welcome latebloomer. its never too late to learn and i,m a prime example. you can grow most orchids under lights seeingthat you,re apartment faces north, i,m sure some other members will pipe in with some more good advise

Welcome to the OB latebloomer! yup, lights are the way to go as I have no bright windows for my 'chids.

Thanks for the welcome! Yes, I'm looking into getting better lighting for the orchids. Right now I just have one of those energy-saving fluorescent bulbs. That worked quite well with other plants, though I don't know how it will be with the orchids.