Phalaenopsis or moth orchids are now found in supermarkets as well as specialty nurseries, reflecting their popularity and ease of care. A horticulturist who has tended orchids at the National Tropical Botanical Garden and the Missouri Botanical Garden explains species' characteristics, development, and cultural needs. Galleries profile the expanding diversity of "phals." The book includes artwork complementing the color photographs; plant sources; and lists of fragrant orchids, intergeneric hybrids, and the orchids illustrated by registration year and originator. Frowine is the author of Miniature Orchids (Timber Press, 2007). Annotation ©2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
With their refined beauty and elegant flower form, moth orchids (members of the genus Phalaenopsis are the basic black of the orchid world. In fact, moth orchids are the most popular orchids in the world, accounting for a staggering 75 percent of all orchid plant sales. More than merely beautiful, they are also among the easiest orchids to grow, whether in greenhouses, on windowsills, or under artificial lights.
Professional horticulturalist and orchid expert Steven A. Frowine, author of Miniature Orchids, focuses on the new orchid stars while also providing a detailed look at the classic hybrids and species. Readers will be enticed by the book's lavish color photographs and gratified by the wealth of practical advice on selecting and buying moth orchids. Most importantly, Frowine shares his secrets on how these glorious plants can be grown to perfection, with recommendations about light levels, potting media, watering, and feeding.
