Orchids

My favorite type of flower is an orchid. Luckily, my boyfriend, family and friends all know this so I'm now the proud owner of 10 unique plants, at my home at work.  I believe this (minor) obsession started 4 years ago, while on a trip to Costa Rica.  On a 6am nature hike, one of the most impressive plants I saw was this incredible orchid.  It was growing out of the top of a 15ft. palm tree, next to a dilapidated building on the resort property.  It amazed me to see such a beautiful flower can grow and bloom for so long without any human care!  

Orchids are notorious for being difficult to grow, aka...easy to kill.  I've neglected some myself, learning lessons such as "don't leave an orchid in a hot car for 4 hours and expect it to come back".  Thankfully, Trader Joes has a great, low cost selection to readily replace any lost plant.   I recommend Smith and Hawkin for high quality, unique colors and patterns for selection as well.  Your best advice for care?  Bright, indirect light, water sparingly, allow it to drain, and have patience.  I've been fortunate enough to see my flowers re-bloom several times!  I would say the most common problem with orchids is incorrect watering.  Here is a picture of my newest additions:

Orchids upgrade the sophistication level of their surroundings, which is why it's not surprising to see the huge and heavy, creamy white with a hint of yellow blooms in the lobbies of finance buildings.  Also, the long blooming time is an investment that pays off.  You can attend an Orchid show, such as the one in San Francisco in early spring and be choosy about your selection.  Look for plants that have only one or two buds blooming, with several more to go. The one I picked up from the show is still blooming, over 6 months later!  When compared to a $12 bouquet of cut flowers, the longevity is such a deal.  However, when it's done it blooming, I will not expect it to bloom again for another year.  Orchids work very hard to produce blooms, and if you want a stunning, non-stop display and scared about the maintenance, I highly recommend these cute lighted fake branches.