Unlike other plants and animals, orchids can produce hybrids between species, and also between related genera. This permits a mind-boggling number of hybrids, and is the reason for the very complex names given to most orchids.

Orchids usually bloom once a year, but if they are really happy, they may bloom more often. If you want an orchid that blooms during a particular season, your best bet is to purchase a plant that is in bloom at that time.

When an orchid does flower it usually remains in bloom for six to 10 weeks.

Orchids resent repotting, and usually will not flower for at least a year after they have been disturbed. If possible, purchase your orchids in pots, rather than bareroot.

Orchids for Beginners

Cattleya

High light; 55 to 90 degrees F; 40 to 80 per cent humidity; alternate wet and dry and coarse fir bark.

Phalaenopsis

Bright light; 65 to 85 degrees F; 40 to 70 per cent humidity; do not allow to dry out and medium fir bark.

Paphiopedilum

Bright light; 50 to 80 degrees F, depending on variety; 40 to 60 per cent humidity; continuous moisture and bark or fluffy moss mix.

Information courtesy of: www.gardeners.com