They are elegant and sophisticated. They’re certainly exotic. But if you think
orchids are hard to grow, think again.
For a long time now, orchids have had the rather dubious reputation for being
temperamental beauties that require meticulous care, plus a healthy dose of
luck, for them to grow and prosper.
But, in fact, there are many types that will thrive in the hands of the average
gardener in a typical home, including the popular corsage-type orchid, among
many others.
And in the past few years, bucking their family’s delicate reputation, one
species of orchid, Phalaenopsis, has gone from exotic flora to supermarket
staple. Cloned in Taiwanese labs and nurtured in California nurseries, they’re
popping up in droves at supermarkets, big box stores, nurseries, garden centers,
and discount clubs.
Photo Caption: Nothing can compare to the graceful elegance of the pure white
blooms of Phalaenopsis ‘Cool Breeze’ in full bloom.
Photo Credit: Betty Earl
To read the rest of this story please go to:
The Christian Science Monitor