Moth Orchids - Popular Florist Plants

The information presented on cultivation (Chapter 10) is outstanding. In fact, it is one of the better chapters on this topic I've read. The author presents the advantages and disadvantages of pots and the various potting media components. His writing style is easily understood by the hobbyist. Reading the following sample would enable anyone to understand exactly how to distinguish between live and dead roots.

It is standard practice to remove dead leaves and roots when repotting a mature plant. Functional phalaenopsis roots are firm, dead roots are hollow. The easiest way to distinguish the two is to grab a root between two fingers and gently tug on it. A live root will not yield, while a dead will strip off with ease, leaving behind a wiry central core. ...

The final three chapters, 11-13 are arranged in an awkward sequence. Chapter 11 covers conservation, Chapter 12 talks about hybrids and Chapter 13 discusses the future of this plant genus. I believe chapter 12 should precede chapter 11, which addresses both natural species and hybrids. Each of the topics is covered in substantial detail. Perhaps another reader will grasp something I am missing that explains the choice of topic order in these particular chapters. A bibliography of all available publications on Phalaenopsis is included and will be of exceptional value for future researchers.

Illustrations are provided to facilitate the reader's understanding of the text. Full color photographs of various Phalaenopsis species are located in the center of this book. Both the illustrations and photographs are of outstanding quality.

Who Should Buy This Book?

Do you own just one unidentified Phalaenopsis bought at a local chain store? You'll be better satisfied with a more general book about orchid care. Have you moved to the stage of wanting the complete scientific name for each of your Phalaenopsis? This book is written for you!

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