Orchid Grower's Companion: Cultivation, Propagation, and Varieties
Banks assures gardeners that most orchids are easy to grow as long as their housing, temperature, and moisture needs are met. There are more than 30,000 species and more than 100,000 hybrid strains. Bank's "companion" presents 400 color illustrations, and contains chapters on plant structures, pollination, orchid names, the history of the plant's cultivation, and its geography and conservation. Chapters on the flowers' care offer advice on growing orchids indoors, in the garden, in pots and baskets, and on mounts. Temperature requirements, watering, fertilizing, pests and diseases, and propagation are all discussed. A 126-page orchid directory lists 400 species, hybrids, and variants, and explains in detail their natural habitat and how to grow them. Banks' wealth of practical advice should help and encourage gardeners to grow these delicate flowers.George CohenCopyright © American Library Association. All rights reserved