Orchids

by Mike Tibbs

Nothing tests the skills of flower gardeners like the fascinating orchid. Get in-depth information on cultivation, modern propagation methods, and greenhouses and arboretums. Stunning full-color photos display dozens of fabulous species—plus new hybrids—and reference charts indicate each variety's feeding and climate requirements. Includes European terrestrial, cool-growing, intermediate house, and a selection of tropicals. Use the orchid identifier—with facts on habitat, flowering time, and more—to choose plants for your collection. Plus: advice on presenting prize specimens in shows. 96 pages (all in color), 8 1/2 X 11.

160 pages, Hardcover

First published July 27, 2007

Reviews

[Kerrie Hoar · Rating 3 out of 5]

Do you have a greenhouse and want to grow orchids?  Would you like to put your orchids outside for the summer, or permanently?  How do you know when your orchid needs to be re-potted and how do you choose the correct pot and soil?  Is your orchid growing so well that it needs to be divided (only in my dreams)?  

The Orchids Handbook begins with the anatomy of an orchid - the flower, roots, leaves and their structures, followed up by growth, habitat and life cycle of the different species of orchids, with the second half entire second half dedicated to the different orchid species - noting their origin, flowering, and their light and feeding requirements, as well as beautiful full color photographs.  

The section on orchid production was quite interesting.  A tour through a giant orchid nursery would make for a fun field trip.   As someone who can't seem to keep an orchid alive long-term, let alone coaxing it into a second bloom, I found the chapter on care and maintenance to be straight forward and helpful.  This book is overflowing with color photographs, although the content may be geared towards a more experienced orchid owner, rather than someone who has just purchased their very first orchid plant.

(NetGalley ebook -  I received a complimentary advanced reader copy of this book through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.)

[Robin Leach · Rating 5 out of 5]

Pg 58, 93, 94, 96, 108, 109, 110, 111, 116, 118, 119, 120, 126, 127, 129, 130, 137, 138, 139, 140, 141, 144, 145, 146, 147, 148