Orchids from Another Planet

If we ever found flowers on another planet, could they possibly be stranger than these earthly orchids? Some of these blooms look like visitors from Mars or Neptune.

Despite their alien facades, they’re simply members of the enormous orchid family, which has diversity beyond measure. Their long Latin names, like Masdevallia caudivolvula __and Sigmatostalix posadarum, are sometimes bigger than the blooms themselves. They may resemble birds in flight or deep sea creatures, but they don’t look much like flowers.

In choosing photos for this post, out of many years of our orchid show pictures, the Bulbophyllums truly stood out. This large, diverse group of orchids has lots of weird blooms. The last row of photos below shows three Bulbophyllum examples, but there were many more. Don’t these flowers look like they could have come from another planet?

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Orchids for Hillary

AboutOrchids only dabbles in politics related to orchid conservation, __and this post is no exception. If you’re an orchid lover, the only choice for president this November is Hillary Clinton. The Republican nominee would be a disastrous decision for many reasons, but the one that’s most important on this blog is saving our endangered planet. That requires science, __and Trump is anti-science. This recent article from Scientific American disqualifies him from the job on that single point alone. Fortunately, polls are looking good for Clinton now, but it’s not over til it’s over.

The photos above illustrate three examples of endangered orchid species which need Hillary Clinton to win. These are just a few of many thousands of orchid species which are imperiled by climate change, habitat destruction, pollution, and poaching of wild plants. Hillary Clinton has a strong environmental record, and she has pledged to tackle climate change and other problems. If orchids could vote, their choice would definitely be Hillary Clinton for president.

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New Parasitic Orchid Discovered

Japanese scientists have discovered a new parasitic orchid species whose flowers never open.  This strange new Gastrodia species doesn’t photosynthesize, instead stealing nutrients from fungi in the soil. In addition, its peculiar flowers stayed closed, __and pollinate themselves.

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A Big Purple Sobralia Orchid

Sobralia flowers never fail to impress. Recently I mentioned this plant in a post about Growing Orchids Outdoors in Pacifica. This Sobralia species bloomed for years outside in our San Francisco garden. It didn’t do so well after our move to the coast, so I finally brought it indoors. After a quick growth spurt, it flowered before we left for our recent trip to Colorado.

These big purple blossoms, with sunny yellow __and white centers, only last for a few days, the very definition of fleeting beauty. The first three pictures above show my plant’s recent bloom indoors. The remaining pictures below show blooms from past years, when the plant lived outdoors in our San Francisco garden, They include a great photo of a visit by a spectacular Gulf Fritillary butterfly, warming its wings in the autumn sun, __and adding even more beauty to a Sobralia bud.

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Orchids Hiding in Plain Sight

Australia is home to many unusual plants, including some orchids which hide in plain sight. They grow leaves year after year, but rarely flower, until there’s a bushfire. Pyrorchis nigricans, also known as the Fire Orchid or Red Beak, bursts into bloom in the year after a fire. Learn more about these scorched orchids in Australian Geographic.

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Fall Color in Colorado

Orchids may be our favorites, but natural beauty comes in many forms. That certainly includes the stunning fall colors of the Colorado Rockies. Dave __and I recently visited Southwest Colorado, __and enjoyed awe-inspiring mountains gilded in their autumn foliage.

The bright yellow leaves belong to aspens. In the thin mountain air around 10,000 feet (3048 m), there were a few orange and red varieties, but most were sporting yellow. Contrasted against green conifers and blue sky, the golden aspens easily stand out, whether it’s a single tree or a vast forest. A couple of idyllic mountain lakes, along with Columbines and a Dahlia from local gardens, complete the picture for one of Mother Nature’s best shows.

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Orchid Care Indoor Special Beginner

Orchid Care Indoor Special Beginner – If you are about to buy or have now got an orchid for the first time, then you need to be careful. It only takes one orchid, one orchid to instill a passion. You won’t ever be able to shake this passion; it will be with you for ever. But this passion isn’t enough to make your orchid survive. You have to have some orchid care knowledge.

A lot of people are put off from buying orchids because they are expensive and have a reputation for being difficult to look after. That is true but with orchid care, you are bound to get better with a little time and experience. Over time, you will become more confident, and as you get more orchids, you will start to become more adventurous.

I want to introduce you to some of the fundamental concepts of orchid care. The first thing that a lot of people get wrong is the watering schedule. One of the main reasons they die is because people water them too much. You shouldn’t be watering them more than once a week. If you are unsure whether they need to be watered, then they probably don’t.

Orchid Care Indoor Special Beginner

Orchids originated in the tropics. Orchids prefer warm temperatures. If you are keeping your orchid outdoors, then you need to pay particular attention to them. If the weather is going to be cold, then think about bringing them indoors into the warmth.

Orchids love lots of light. This is another bit of orchid care that you will have to master. You want your orchid to get a lot of light, but you don’t want to leave them standing in direct sunlight for an extended period.

I hope that you do not get put off by the difficulty of orchid care and buy your first orchid. It is a very rewarding experience that I am sure you will enjoy. The worst that can happen is that you can give it to someone you care for if you don’t enjoy it.

Let me guess… you are looking for orchid care tips because someone has given you an orchid for the first time? That is how a lot of us get into orchids, through gifts from family and friends. Now that you have your orchid you need to know what to do with it. If you do things correctly then you should have an orchid that blooms year after year.

For people with their first orchid getting into the area of orchid care can seem overwhelming. This is easy for me to understand as I have seen many people get worried. With experience, you should find it much easier.

Many people struggle with knowing how much to water the plant. This is often where people go wrong, and if you get this part of the orchid care wrong, then your __plant will die. Do not over water your orchid. It only requires watering about once per week, no more than that. Always check right under the soil to ensure that it is completely dry before you water it. Ifin doubt leave it a bit longer.

Orchids love the sunlight. One of your tasks in orchid care is positioning the orchid correctly. You need them to get a lot of suns, but you don’t want them in direct sunlight for to long.

I hope that I haven’t put you off getting your first orchid. It is a great experience and with a little orchid care, it should prosper very well. Orchid Care Indoor Special Beginner.. Good luck!

Tips For Planting Azaleas Bush Perfectly

Tips For Planting Azaleas Bush Perfectly – Azaleas bush are a flowering __plant with a lot of panache. They put off an impressive show, and if done right, will continue to do so for years to come. However, like any plant, you need to give them a good start for good results.

Planting them in the proper spot, giving them the right amount of water and food and providing the appropriate maintenance will help you have perfect azaleas. Following is a guide to ensuring the success of this beautiful flowering shrub.

Most azaleas bush are store bought. When choosing the azalea bush in the store, be sure to choose a __plant that has green leaves and lots of flower buds. If the plant is at all weepy or the leaves are limp, this plant will probably not do well and may be diseased. A good choice will produce a rewarding plant.

When you are ready to plant your azalea, you must first prepare the soil. Azaleas bush prefer an acidic soil and need to have good drainage. Therefore you must loosen the ground that it will be planted in about six to eight inches down. Also, be sure to test the acidity of the soil and adjust it accordingly.

Tips For Planting Azaleas Bush Perfectly

Azaleas bush prefer to be fertilized after they’ve had a chance to establish their roots. When the plant has successfully been put in the ground, water it thoroughly; about five to ten minutes with a garden hose, but do not fertilize.

When it’s been in the ground for a week or two and it’s obvious that it’s taking root and flourishing well, then fertilize and water regularly. When there’s very little precipitation outside, water with a garden hose daily for five to ten minutes.

In the fall, prune the bush back to promote new and full growth for the following spring. Be sure to allow for fresh spring growth when pruning. The second growing season tends to have small amounts of growth, but in the third and after that the plant will really take off. Keep that in mind when pruning. Be sure there’s enough room for growth above the ground as wellas below.

Use a container for your miniature tree that has drainage holes beneath it. This will aid in the drainage of extra amounts of water inside the pot so that your Azalea Bush will not suffer the consequences of over watering.

You must supply your Azalea Bush of adequate quantities of water. Water is crucial for the hydration of your bonsai. You must not give too much water because this will drown your bonsai and will lead to its weakness. And, giving too less water will not supply the required amount of water for it to grow well.

Expose your Azalea Bush to a direct morning sunlight and indirect afternoon sunlight. It is highly recommended that you expose your bonsai to morning sunlight because it is just good enough for your growing Bush. However, midday and afternoon sunlight are too harsh for your bonsai that is why you need to place it under a shady area.

You need to report your miniature tree whenever necessary. You have to transfer your Azalea Bush to a new container for miniature trees when the roots have filled the old tank. If you are not able to report your miniature tree at the right time, your miniature tree will experience pot bound.

Azalea Bush can tolerate hard pruning, but you should perform it carefully because the fine roots can break easily. You need to prune harder the bottom and sides of the entire root system, but you should be cautious when untangling the roots on the upper portion.so Tips For Planting Azaleas Bush Perfectly..I hope this helps

How to Take Care of Orchids Daily

How to Take Care of Orchids Daily – Humidity is very important when it comes to take caring for your orchids. It is the first thing to consider if you want to make your orchids grow abundantly. If there is less humidity in the air, then your plants will mostly likely die or grow feebly.

If you live in a region where it is very or moderately humid, then there is no problem in growing them. However, if it is the other way around, you need to do some ways on how to grow them abundantly in your place. Hygrometer can measure the level of humidity at home.

If you find that there is less humidity with the hygrometer, do not worry, you can still increase it by using a humidity tray. This can be bought at any orchid specialty stores or even online. Place the orchids on the tray and it will then humidify them. Another way is to mist the plants. Using a spray bottle with water, mist them daily to provide them enough water vapor so they will thrive well.

How to Take Care of Orchids Daily

Orchids are plants that represent beauty and love. Most people grow them because the plants exude elegance and they are very fascinating. Orchids are also very popular in events either for decoration purposes or as corsages in weddings and proms.

There are over 30,000 hybrids of orchids all over the world. This means that one can get an orchid __plant in any part of the world depending on what kind of orchid they want. One thing that orchids have in common is the fact that they require very good care and maintenance in order for them to maintain their beautiful look at all times.

The first step you need to take in order to ensure you take care of your orchid __plant as required is to ensure you have the right orchid for your environment. This is because environment plays a very important role when it comes to taking care of orchids. Some of the factors you should consider before choosing an orchid include: the space you intend to plant the orchid in and the temperature conditions the orchid plant requires.

Taking Care of Orchids

Space is a very important factor to consider. This is because orchids mature differently in terms of height and width. For example some types of orchids tend to grow very big. If in restricted spaces, they may not mature as they should. Such types of orchids should therefore be grown outdoors where there is ample space.

The temperature requirements are also very important considerations since they enable you to know whether or not the orchid plant will be able to thrive in the temperature conditions you intend to grow them in.

When taking care of orchids, it is also important to consider the moisture requirements of the plant you select. This is because all orchid hybrids have different moisture requirements. There are those which require moderate moisture and there are others that require a lot of water. Having this information prevents you from watering your plant in the wrong way. The chances of the plant remaining in good condition for a long time is higher are you water the plants in the right way.

The other thing you need to do in order to ensure you are taking care of orchids in the right way is to use fertilizers more often. Fertilizers are very important because they are a way of feeding the plant in order to ensure it grows and matures in a healthy form.

When it comes to choosing fertilizer, it is important to know the stages of the plant before using any fertilizer. If the shoots are just being formed, you are supposed to use high nitrogen content fertilizers. In later stages, it is recommended to use fertilizers high in potassium and phosphorus.

In conclusion, these are some of the most important things you need to ensure you do in order to ensure your orchid is well taken care of. Failure to do this may result in unhealthy looking orchid plants. It is however very important to seek assistance from the person who sells the plant to you in order to know everything you need to do to offer the plant the best care.thereby How to Take Care of Orchids Daily may be useful..

How To Keep Orchids Alive

How To Keep Orchids Alive – To those of us who live in crowded cities where a window box or terrarium is the only means we have of indulging a desire for green and growing plants, orchids offer special attractions. Indoor gardeners say that a house full of plants is soothing.

This is certainly true of the frequently grasslike and gracefully arching foliage of orchids. But orchids in flower are wondrous beyond all other plants. Ordinary house plants have an air of quiet respectability. Orchids bring to your home an exotic touch, a hint of faraway lands.

For orchid growing, a window on the south side of your house is ideal. It gets a full eight to twelve hours of sunlight. Sun on windows on the east and west rarely lasts longer than five hours, and west windows receive an intense light which may prove harmful. North windows rarely have enough light. Orchids should normally receive ten or more hours of mellow light.

How To Keep Orchids Alive

As sunlight becomes brighter in summer, a muslin or close-net curtain is drawn across south and west windows from midday to late afternoon in order to protect orchids from direct light. In winter, although drapes are not desirable for diffusing light, they are needed.

At night when frost, snow, and ice chill windowpanes, curtains are drawn to protect orchids from the cold radiations of the glass. Each morning, as soon as the sun warms the windowpanes, curtains are drawn back in order that plants may have full benefit from the available sunlight. East windows, receiving only morning sun, rarely need to be shaded.

One of the most successful ideas devised by an amateur’s ingenuity is the __plant tea table. Any tea table that is set on casters can be used. On top of the table place decorative trays filled with moist gravel. Set the potted plants on slats above the gravel. That is all there is to it, providing the gravel is kept continuously moist.

In very cold sections of the country a __plant table may have removable glass sides and top which can be set up over the plants. The table may be further improved by using water instead of gravel in the trays. Into the water dunk a flat aquarium heating unit, and plug it into a wall socket on cold nights and days. Water evaporation will be faster and the air will be kept a bit warmer.
Window Box

If a movable table is not desirable, aquarium heaters and chicken-brooder heating units can be adapted to window ledges and shelves. Small heat lamps with reflectors can be installed at the top of a window. The lamps can be controlled by a thermostat and they will heat and light the window at periods when orchids need stimulation. Such supplemental light is beneficial on cloudy and rainy days and is sufficient in intensity to benefit orchids.
Sometimes orchids have been placed in trays of moist gravel set above steam radiators with excellent results. Gas heaters in a home are not always practicable; they dry the air, combustion is often incomplete, and the gaseous products often are poisonous to plants. Before you use a gas heater, check with your gas company. Use only natural gas.

The requirement of orchids for continuously fresh and buoyant air is not so difficult to meet in winter as it sounds. Open any window except that in which the orchids are kept. Don’t open the window enough to create a draft or chill the room, but just enough to keep the room from being stuffy.

In summer most windows will be open anyway, and all that matters then is to protect plants from dry, hot drafts.So How To Keep Orchids Alive..regards

How To Grow Orchids Cattleya

How To Grow Orchids Cattleya – Orchids Cattleya is one of the most beautiful flowers in the world. They can be tough to grow, though, so properly Watering Orchids Cattleya is an important aspect of building them.

A tropical __plant that needs less watering

One of the first things that people do wrong in growing orchids is that they water them too much. Many think because it is mostly a tropical __plant that it needs a lot of water. Many people kill the plant because they over water it. They are very sensitive plants so treating them properly is important.

Watering them once a week is usually the way most quality plants are grown. Depending on the climate and time of year, you may need to do it a little more often.

Too much water at one time

Another problem is that some give too much water at one time. The plant itself should never be left in standing water, or this may also harm it. The best thing to do is to water the plant when it is relatively or wholly dry. They do not like being in a lot of water at one time.

The best time of day for watering orchids cattleya

Some people feel that almost all plants need to be watered when the sun is going down. With these plants, it is important not to water at night. If you do, this could leave a water buildup in the roots which can cause root rot as well as a fungal growth which is a common problem with orchids cattleya. Watering it in the daytime is perfectly fine, preferably before midday so that the water has time to evaporate.

What are essential tips to growing healthy plants

You can usually water the plants once a week. In the summer months, it is best to water them every four to five days depending on the humidity and climate. Make sure you do it in the morning or the early afternoon hours.

This will allow the water to evaporate properly and not leave any moisture residue. Another important aspect when watering orchids Cattleya is to make sure that a person knows all about the particular one that they have. Some may need a little more water and some may not.

The plants also do not do well in soil but seem to grow better in moss or bark environments. It is also important to not use fertilizer or any growth mixture. Surprisingly they are much easier to build than some think, as long as you water them correctly.

What type of water is best

Many people for years have felt that watering orchids with tap water would harm the plants. That is just a myth. Tap water is perfectly fine to use. The temperature of the water, however, is crucial. It must be near room temperature. If the water is too hot or too cold, then it may shock the root system and kill the plant.

Watering orchids properly can help them grow properly

Orchids are very intimidating for some people to become. Watering orchids properly are probably the most important part of growing orchids.so How To Grow Orchids Cattleya..regards..

Orchid Care Video: Helpful Spices!

Ryan over at OrchidsMadeEasy has a great video I just had to share here. This video shows just how easy it can be to care for your orchids. Who says you have to go out in search of special __orchid chemicals? Sometimes all you need is to grab something from your kitchen cabinet! So go ahead, watch the video below to see which spice can treat and prevent diseases in your orchids! So simple, easy, and natural!

Want to learn more? Don’t miss Ryan’s Free __orchid Care Email Tips.

Warmest wishes from sunny Florida,

Orchid Care Tips: Non-Toxic Insecticide

To spray your __orchid plants to deter insects – in place of more toxic chemicals.

4 cups canola oil or vegetable oil
7 table spoon eucalyptus oil
2 cups water
2 teaspoon dish soap

Mix together & shake well. To use add 3 tablespoon of mixture to 4 cups of water and spray.

Warmest wishes from sunny Florida,

Orchid Care : Diseases – Crown Rot

In today’s __orchid care post, I’ll be sharing a few tips on how to care for orchids with crown rot.  You may have seen plants at your local grocery store suffering from crown rot (I see it all too often) or perhaps you’ve had to treat an __orchid with crown rot in your own home.  Treating crown rot can be extremely difficult, but the more we know about it, the better we can treat, even prevent it!

Orchids are susceptible to various types of rot including leaf rot, root rot and crown rot.  Monopodial orchids (Phalaenopsis and Vandas) are most suseptible to crown rot—a fungal infection that is caused by water pooling in the center (or crown) of the plant.

Crown rot can cause immense damage to an orchid and must be treated immediately.  One solution  is to use hydrogen peroxide (3%).  You can treat the crown rot with full strength hydrogen peroxide, repeating every 2-3 days until the rot no longer fizzes and bubbles with the hydrogen peroxide application.  Sprinkling cinnamon from your kitchen cabinets can also be used to treat the fungus.

Of course, prevention is the best medicine, even when it comes to orchids.  Crown rot is 100% preventable.  Water your orchids early in the day, so that the plant has time to dry off before night time and provide your plants with proper air circulation.  Most importantly, always take the time to inspect the crown of your orchids regularly.  Take a tissue and soak up any water that has pooled in the crown.

(If you do decide to remove severely damaged orchid leaves, make sure you sterilize the blade for each cut.)

Want to receive more tips on caring for orchids?  Sign up for Ryan’s Free orchid Care Email Tips–you’ll learn everything you need to know straight from the expert!

Warmest wishes from sunny Florida,

Amazing Orchids: The Dove or Holy Ghost Orchid

This week’s amazing __orchid is the Peristeria elata, an __orchid species native to regions in Central America (it’s the national flower of Panama).  I’ve actually seen these beauties at orchid Shows a few times and they are just the sweetest thing!  They are commonly referred to as the ‘Dove’ or ‘Holy Ghost Orchid‘ because of the tiny little dove that appears to be sitting in the center of the orchid.  These peaceful and elegant orchids do have a fragrance (they smell like beer I hear).  Like many other orchids, the Dove Orchid is used in Chinese medicine and is most commonly used for cosmetic uses–to sooth and clear spotty skin.

Now for the real reason you wanted to check out this post….THE PHOTOS!  Here are a few photos I gathered from about the web.  Enjoy!

Warmest wishes from sunny Florida,

October Orchid Shows

All over the globe, these events offer great opportunities to see incredible flowers, take photos, talk to orchid experts, __and buy plants for your own collection. Don’t miss an orchid show happening near you!

October 1

Deep Cut Orchid Society Auction, Dearborn Market, 2170 Route 35, Holmdel, New Jersey

October 1

Lincolnshire Orchid Group Autumn Show, Leasingham Village Hall, Chapel Ln., Sleaford, Lincolnshire, UK

October 1

Orchid Society of Great Britain Autumn Show, Wraysbury Village Hall, The Green, Wraysbury, Staines, UK

October 1 – 2

Kentucky Orchid Society Show & Sale, St. Mathews Episcopal Church, 330 N. Hubbards Ln., Louisville, Kentucky

October 1 – 2

Morongo Basin Orchid Festival, Gubler’s Orchids, 2200 Balfield Blvd., Landers, California

October 1 – 2

South Central Washington Orchid Society Show, Tri-Tech Skills Center, 5929 W. Metaline Ave., Kennewick, Washington

October 1 – 2

Central New York Orchid Society Fall Show & Sale, Beaver Lake Nature Center, 8477 E. Mud Lake Rd., Baldwinsville, New York

October 1 – 2

Tampa Orchid Club Show, USF Botanical Gardens, 12210 USF Pine Dr., Tampa, Florida

October 1 – 2

Orchibo, Chiostro di San Francesco, Piazza Malpighi 9, Bologna, Italy

October 1 – 2

Great Lakes Orchid Society Show, Forster Primary School, Head St., Forster, NSW, Australia

October 1 – 2

Horsham Orchid Society Spring Show, Horsham College Hall, Dimboola Rd., Horsham, Victoria, Australia

October 1 – 2

Melbourne Eastern Orchid Society Spring Show, Uniting Church, Burwood Hwy. & Blackburn Rd., East Burwood, Victoria, Australia

October 1 – 2

Ringwood Orchid Society Spring Show, Maroondah Secondary College, Brentnall Rd., Croydon, Victoria, Australia

October 1 – 2

Eastern District Orchid Society Spring Show, Bayside Uniting Church Hall, 420 Wondall Rd., Manly West, Queensland, Australia

October 1 – 2

Ipswich Orchid Society Show, Silkstone State School, Prospect St., Silkstone, Queensland, Australia

October 1 – 9

Leura Gardens Festival, 13 locations in Leura, NSW, Australia

October 5 – 16

Big Fresno Fair Orchid Show, Fresno Fairgrounds, Greenhouse Bldg., 1121 S. Chance Ave., Fresno, California

October 6 – 9

Maui County Fair Orchidland, War Memorial Gymnasium, 700 Halia Nakoa St., Wailuku, Maui, Hawaii

October 6 – 9

Portland Orchid Society Fall Show & Sale, Portland Home & Garden Show, Expo Center, 2060 N. Marine Dr., Portland, Oregon

October 6 – 9

Svet Orchidejí, Beranovych 667, Prague – Letnany, Czech Republic

October 7 – 9

Witwatersrand Orchid Society Spring Show, The Floreum, Olifants Rd., Emmarentia Dam, Johannesburg, South Africa

October 7 – 9

Southern Orchid Spectacular, Southern Orchid Spectacular, Caringbah High School, 85 Willarong Rd., Caringbah, NSW, Australia

October 7 – 9

Queensland Orchid Society Spring Show, Brisbane Botanic Gardens Auditorium, Mt. Coot-Tha Rd., Toowong, Queensland, Australia

October 7 – 9

Gippsland Orchid Club Show, Mid Valley Shopping Centre, Princess Hwy., Morwell, Victoria, Australia

October 7 – 9

Orchids Fontfroide, Abbaye de Fontfroide, RD 613 – 11 100 Narbonne, France

October 7 – 9

Exposição Nacional de Orquídeas de Bambuí, Lions Clube de Bambuí, Bambuí, Minas Gerais, Brazil

October 7 – 9

Exposição Nacional de Orquídeas de Votuporanga, Ginásio de Esportes Mário Covas, Pozzobon, São Paulo, Brazil

October 7 – 9

Exposição Nacional de Orquídeas de Salto, Centro Esportivo João Luiz Guarda, Av. Eurico Gaspar Dutra, 475, Jardim Bandeirantes, Salto, São Paulo, Brazil

October 7 – 9

Niedernhausener Orchideenausstellung, Autalhalle, Niedernhausen, Germany

October 8

Wessex Orchid Society Autumn Show, Porchester Community School, White Hart Ln., Portchester, Fareham, UK

October 8 – 9

Illinois Orchid Society Fall Show, Chicago Botanic Gardens, 1000 Lake Cook Rd., Glencoe, Illinois

October 8 – 9

Ft. Pierce Orchid Society Show & Sale, St. Lucie County Shrine Club, 4600 Oleander Ave., Ft. Pierce, Florida

October 8 – 9

Trinidad __and Tobago Orchid Society Show, Trinidad Country Club, Long Circular Rd., Maraval, Trinidad

October 8 – 9

Albury-Wodonga & District Orchid Club Show, Mirambeena Centre, Martha Mews, Lavington, NSW, Australia

October 8 – 9

St. Arnaud Orchid Society Show, RSL Hall, Raglan St., St. Arnaud, Victoria, Australia

October 8 – 9

Colac Orchid Club Show, Show Grounds, Colac, Victoria, Australia

October 8 – 10

National Capital Orchid Society Show, Behnke Nursery, 11300 Baltimore Ave., Beltsville, Maryland

October 9

North of England Orchid Society Monthly Meeting & Show, Brockholes Nature Reserve, Preston New Rd., Preston, Lancashire, UK

October 9

Orchid Society of Great Britain Croydon Group Show, Diamond Centre For Disabled Riders, Woodmansterne Rd,, Carshalton, Surrey, UK

October 11 – 16

Exposición de Orquideología, Centro Cultural Isidro Fabela (El Risco,) San Ángel, Mexico DF, Mexico

October 12 – 15

Boolaroo Orchid Society Show, Stockland Wallsend Centre, Cowper St., Wallsend, NSW, Australia

October 13 – 16

Western Suburbs Orchid Society Spring Show, Ashfield Mall, 260A Liverpool Rd., Ashfield, NSW, Australia

October 14 – 16

Honolulu Orchid Society Show & Plant Sale, Washington Middle School Cafeteria, 1633 S. King St., Honolulu, Oahu, Hawaii

October 14 – 16

East Everglades Orchid Society Show & Sale, 28100 SW 182 Ave., Homestead, Florida

October 14 – 16

Ballarat Orchid Society Show, Primary Industries Training Centre, Gillies & Gregory Sts., Wendouree, Victoria, Australia

October 14 – 16

Exposicion de Orquídeas de Otoño, Univ. Guizar y Valencia, Av. Atlacomulco esq. calle Morelos s/n, Col. Acapantzingo, Cuernavaca, Morelos, Mexico

October 14 – 16

Exposição Internacional de Orquídeas de Lisboa, Estufa Fria, Parque Eduardo VII, 1070 Lisbon, Portugal

October 14 – 16

Exposição Nacional de Orquídeas de Lençóis Paulista, Recinto de Exposições José Oliveira Prado, Av. Lázaro Brígido Dutra 300, Lençóis Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil

October 15

Mid-Hudson Orchid Society Fall Show & Sale, Union Presbyterian Church, 44 Balmville Rd, Newburgh, New York

October 15

Diablo View Orchid Society Show & Sale, Willow Pass Recreation Center, 2748 E. Olivera Rd., Concord, California

October 15

Revesby Workers’ Australian Native Orchid Club Show, Revesby Workers Sports and Recreation Club, 22 Homelea St., Panania, NSW, Australia

October 15

Redlands Orchid Society Spring Show, Donald Simpson Centre, 172 Bloomfield St., Cleveland, Queensland, Australia

October 15 – 16

Orchid Society of Southwest Pennsylvania Fall Fest, Phipps Garden Center, 1059 Shady Ave., Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

October 15 – 16

Eastern Iowa Orchid Show & Sale, Noelridge Gardens Greenhouse, 4900 Council St. NE, Cedar Rapids, Iowa

October 15 – 16

Orchid Forum of Sacramento Show, Shepard Garden and Art Center, 3330 McKinley Blvd., Sacramento, California

October 15 – 16

Yarra Valley Orchid Society Spring Show, Public Hall, Warburton Highway, Seville, Victoria, Australia

October 15 – 16

Bribie Island Orchid Society Spring Show, Orchid House, 156A First Ave., Bribie Island, Queensland, Australia

October 15 – 16

Boonah Orchid Show, Boonah State High School, Macquarie St., Boonah, Queensland, Australia

October 15 – 16

Orchidfête, CEGEP André Laurendeau, 1111 Rue Lapierre, Lasalle, Quebec, Canada

October 15 – 16

Exposition Internationale d’Orchidées, Salle des Fêtes, La Vallonnière, 260 Rue Des Prolières, Cailloux-sur-Fontaines, France

October 19 – 23

American Orchid Society Fall 2016 Members Meeting, Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens, 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino, California

October 21 – 22

Batemans Bay Orchid Club Show, Soldiers Club, 2 Beach St., Batemans Bay, NSW, Australia

October 21 – 23

International Orchid Show & Sale, Huntington Library, Art Collections and Botanical Gardens, 1151 Oxford Rd., San Marino, California

October 21 – 23

Orchideen & Raritätenbörse, Osterfeldhalle Berkheim, Kongener Str. 51, Esslingen, Germany

October 22

Toowoomba Orchid Society Spring Show, St. Pauls Hall, Phillip St., Toowoomba, Queensland, Australia

October 22 – 23

Gainesville Orchid Society Show & Sale, Kanapaha Botanical Gardens, 4700 SW 58th Dr., Gainesville, Florida

October 22 – 23

Greater Cincinnati Orchid Society Fall Show & Plant Sale, Krohn Conservatory, 1501 Eden Park Dr., Cincinnati, Ohio

October 22 – 23

Windsor Orchid Society Show & Sale, Columbus Centre of South Windsor, 2401 Columbus Dr., Windsor, Ontario, Canada

October 22 – 23

Orchid Species Society Spring Show, Brisbane Botanic Gardens Auditorium, Mt. Coot-Tha Rd., Toowong, Queensland, Australia

October 22 – 23

Blue Mountains & Penrith District Orchid Society Sarcanthinae Show, Girl Guides Hall, Great Western Hwy. & Park St., Emu Plains, NSW, Australia

October 22 – 23

Bayside Orchid Society Show, Cranbourne Public Hall, High & Clarendon Sts., Cranbourne, Victoria, Australia

October 23

S.P.E.C.I.E.S. NSW Orchid Society Show, Lot 200, Phyllis & Central Aves., Thornleigh, NSW, Australia

October 27 – 29

Northern Rivers Orchid Species Society Show, Lismore Shopping Square, Carrington St., Lismore, NSW, Australia

October 28 – 29

London Shades of Autumn Show, RHS Lindley Hall & RHS Lawrence Hall, London, UK

October 28 – 29

Sapphire Coast Orchid Club Native Show, Twyford Hall, Market St., Merimbula, NSW, Australia

October 28 – 30

Delray Beach Orchid Society Show, Old School Square Gymnasium, 51 N. Swinton Ave., Delray Beach, Florida

October 28 – 30

Exposición de Orquídeas, Ex-hacienda de Temixco, Parque Acuatico, Temixco, Morelos, Mexico

October 28 – 30

Exposição Nacional de Orquídeas de Americana, Feira Industrial de Americana, Av. Nossa Senhora de Fátima 200, Americana, São Paulo, Brazil

October 29 – 30

San Diego County Orchid Society Show & Sale, Balboa Park, Casa del Prado Building, Room 101, San Diego, California

October 29 – 30

Fraser Valley Orchid Society Show & Sale, George Preston Recreation Centre, 20699 42nd Ave., Langley, British Columbia, Canada

October 29 – 30

North Moreton Queensland Orchid Society Show, Brisbane Botanic Gardens Auditorium, Mt. Coot-Tha Rd., Toowong, Queensland, Australia

October 29 – 30

Stawell Orchid Society Summer Show, Centenary Hall, Main St., Halls Gap, Victoria, Australia

October 29 – 30

Ringwood/Yarra Valley Orchid Show, Keystone Hall, Civic Square, Croydon, Victoria, Australia

October 29 – 30

Orquídeas de Otoño, Jardín Botánico de la Univ. de Valencia, Calle de Quart 80, València, Valencia, Spain

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And More Photos from Orchids in the Park

Are they birds, planes, or alien spaceships? No, they’re just more photos from last month’s Orchids in the Park show in San Francisco. They include a few which are bizarre or otherworldly, __and others which just don’t look like flowers. With fantastic shapes __and brilliant colors, some seem to stretch the boundaries of what flowers can be.

Orchids in the Park is San Francisco’s smaller annual orchid show, dwarfed in comparison to the enormous Pacific Orchid Expo at the end of winter. Yet, even with fewer plants, there are always lots of spectacular orchids. In addition to previous posts about the show, and a very tiny Platystele bloom, these incredible flowers demonstrate how impressive any small orchid show can be.

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Repotting Orchids Is Easier Than You Think

Orchid lovers know that orchids have different potting needs than most other houseplants. Check out some helpful orchid potting tips from the the Tri-City Herald in southeastern Washington state.

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A Delightfully Variable Moth Orchid Species

The Manila Bulletin highlights some of the delightful color variations found in a favorite local orchid. Phalaenopsis equestris is a Moth Orchid species which is usually white __and pink. However, many other color forms exist in white, yellow, orange, or purple. Scroll through their photos to explore the color array.

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Growing Orchids Outdoors in Pacifica

We moved from San Francisco to Pacifica over two years ago, __and ever since, I’ve been learning how to grow orchids next to the ocean. Since I keep my cool growers outdoors, they’re subjected to all the elements which Mother Nature can throw at them. These outdoor orchids prove their toughness day after day, __and Pacifica has taught me to appreciate them even more.

Our home is less than 1/2 mile (0.8 km) from the ocean, and we’re on a hill, about 360 feet (110 m) above sea level. We occasionally get a light coating of salt, but, surprisingly, it hasn’t damaged the orchids, or any other plants in our garden. Maybe it’s infrequent enough, or a light enough coating, so it doesn’t cause problems.

The wind is another story. We sometimes experience 50 mph (80 km/h) winds, and gusts which are even stronger, and they can do a lot of damage to any outdoor plants. Despite this, it’s surprising how many orchids are fine with strong ocean winds. The Cymbidiums, Sarcochilus, and Epidendrums live fully exposed on the back patio, and brave the strongest winds without much problem. The Masdevallias, Zygos, and Odonts grow right next to our house, and enjoy some shelter from a wall. However, even there, strong gusts can damage leaves and flowers, knock over flowerpots, and blow debris around. Despite this, you can see from these photos that many of these orchids survive and thrive.

Not all the orchids have escaped the wind. The Cyrtochilum which thrived in our San Francisco garden didn’t do so well here. The first year, it put out a much smaller flower spike than usual, and then continued to decline until it was gone. On the other hand, I brought my Sobralia inside to stop its slow decline. It was probably at the limit of its cold tolerance growing outdoors in San Francisco, and couldn’t handle the chilly winds here. It’s putting on nice new growth indoors, and I’m hoping to see its big purple blooms soon.

See more great cool growers loving life in Pacifica in my previous posts about a Tough Masdevallia, Pacifica Blooms, the Blue Orchid, the Giant Hyacinth Orchid, Orchids on the Coast, and Orchids Love Fog.

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