Bulbophyllum reference
 

Good morning, new to the forum and recently got interested in bulbophyllums. What would you recommend as a reference book for me? I saw one on Amazon by Emily Siegerist but it had tepid reviews. Any suggestions for good quality photos and culture information? Thanks, Bugglie

It's not until the last few years that there has been very wide interest in Bulbophyllums, and the available literature reflects this. There are really only two "general interest" books available (that I am aware of), Emly Siegerist's that you mention, and a somewhat idiosyncratic (in a good way) self-published book by Bill Thoms. Most other published information on Bulbophyllums (species) occurs in books on the orchids of a specific region, like 'Orchids of the Philippines'. In very general terms, most of the readily available species and hybrids are warm growing, require low to medium light, and are moisture-loving.

Welcome, bugglie!

Unfortunately there are not a lot of books out there for the Bulbophyllum hobbyist. I like the Siegerist book, though if you want pretty photos make sure you get the hardcover, the paperback is a much lower-quality reprint.

For general culture and some details on the genus (it's too vast to cover in great detail in one volume) Bill Thoms' Bulbophyllums; the Incomplete Guide, From A to WHY? is a good read. The CD w/ PDF is only $20 if you don't want to spring for the hardcover.

If you want info on particular species, check out the culture sheet archive at Orchid Culture -- Charles and Margaret Baker, these are incredibly useful references and a real bargain at less than $1 each. Hope this helps! :)

--Nat

Welcome and Hello !
Sit back and relax...read posts from the other members and learn from their wealth of knowledge through years of growing orchids. Do not beleive the reviews, sometimes it is too personal from knowing the author and is always biased in nature.
I always sit down and skim through the book before buying. I be the judge if the book is worth buying; after all I am the one stuck with it on the bookshelf at home.
Too few Bulbophyllum books in this world...I would own all of them if I can get my hands on it.

Hi Bugglie,

i do own the book on Bulbophyllums and their Allies by Emily Siegerist. i find that it gives you at least a rough idea on the cultural requirements of various Bulbophyllums (which is a good start) but if you want pictures, its much better to look it up on the net. I find that by cross referencing with the book and online sources like Orchid Board and the link below,

Jay's Internet Orchid Species Photo Encyclopedia Bulb - Bz

you will be able to piece together a much bigger picture of how do you go about taking care of different bulbophyllums.

Cheers and happy growing,
Freddie

Thanks to everyone for the advice and your experiences with various reference material. The online photos are great quality and easy to access. Bugglie