Orchids: Care and Cultivation

"Orchids: Care and Cultivation," originally published in French, is a worthwhile addition to any orchid library, containing a wealth of information that both the beginner and hobbyist will find useful. For each type of orchid, there is a general introduction followed by sections on light, temperature, humidity and watering, feeding, repotting and compost, and propagation, that provides specific details to augment the basic information covered in earlier chapters. Text boxes are used to convey the `bottom-line' information about each orchid, and to note other related hybrids or genera. Though most of the introductory chapters are illustrated in colour, this section is replete with artistic photographs of orchid hybrids and species, mostly against black backgrounds, that highlight their intrinsic beauty and form. Each photo will leave you longing to acquire the orchid pictured. Overall, Orchids: Care and Cultivation is highly recommended for its comprehensive discussion on basic orchid care and on how to grow many of the different types, and its excellent photographs. Those looking for new challenges will also enjoy learning how to fine-tune their growing practices, and about some of the more obscure orchids described. This book should find a place on every orchidist's bookshelf. [...]