While orchid growing is 
generally thought of as a form 
of “greenhouse gardening,” it 
is not at all necessary for the 
beginning hobbyist to invest in 
expensive equipment. Much 
interest and satisfaction can be 
derived by growing orchids in- 
doors in a glass case or “or- PHALAENOPSIS 
chidarium” which can be built 
at home with little expenditure of money and effort. Such 
orchidariums may be purchased at moderate cost. It is pos- 
sible to grow many kinds of tropical orchids in a conserva- 
tory or on a sun porch, or even in a well-planned window 
garden. In warmer regions such as Florida, Southern Cali- 
fornia and Hawaii, tropical orchids can be grown outdoors, 
and in colder climates many of our wild native orchids can 
be made to succeed outdoors in a wildflower garden. Of 
course in most sections of the country a small greenhouse, 
either attached to the home or otherwise, affords better 
conditions for the successful growth of a much wider 
range of orchid varieties. The cost is small in comparison 
to the satisfaction received, and most hobbyists eventually 
build such a structure. 
The beginning orchid hobbyist is offered an unlimited 
selection of plants from which to choose. The Orchid 
Family is large and varied, containing an estimated 15,000 
different kinds in nature. There are an equal number of 
man-made hybrids and the breeding of orchids continues 
at an increasing pace. This infinite variation guarantees 
that there is no end to the interest these plants hold. 
Out of this treasure chest the orchid grower can select 
plants to meet his fancy, his conditions and his pocketbook. 
The prices of a few ultra-fine plants, possessing special 
qualities sought by breeders and connoisseurs, sometimes 
have run into rather fancy figures. The average price of 
good orchid hybrids, however, comes well within the 
means of the moderate income hobbyist and there is a very 
large number of beautiful species which are quite in- 
expensive, 
