Happy Orchid

Book excerpt: Proud new owner of a gorgeous orchid? Learn the essentials of buying orchids, orchid care and how to keep it flowering beautifully, year after year, with this bite-sized beginner's guide. Did you know that many orchids hate being in direct sunlight? Or that most orchids have a crucial dormant period when their care needs change? Happy Orchid dispels the myths around how to care for orchids, starting with a simple, step-by-step introduction that demonstrates all the essential growing techniques, including how to plant, what feed to give them - orchids are fussy eaters! - and how to water and maintain humidity. Discover more than 120 illustrated profiles of the most desirable orchids to grow: graceful Phalaenopsis, delicate Dendrobium, spectacular Cymbidium and many more varieties. Each profiled orchid lets you know exactly what they need for optimum growth, including where best to place them, how often they need repotting, how to prolong flowering and encourage reflowering. With this book as your guide, you will quickly become an expert on how to grow orchids and be inspired to fill your home with these striking, colourful beauties.