Orchids have a cycle of life. The key to understanding the annual life cycle of a plant, and knowing how to respond to it, can be depicted visually as a clock.

Orchid growers know their plants will produce flowers at a certain time of year, and will grow new leaves and rhizomes at another. By charting these on a clock face, we can better respond to the needs of the plant in terms of fertilization, watering, etc.

The species illustrated below appear in the background of today's modern Cattleya Alliance hybrids. Each plant imparts certain traits such as color, form or size to its progeny and hybridizers have capitalized on these traits. This list of species and the traits enumerated was first published in the AOS Bulletin in January 1960 and they continue to withstand the test of time. Species names listed reflect currently accepted nomenclature.

Anyone who has heard Dr. Kristen Uthus speak about Neofenitia falcata (aka vandas) knows she is simply captivating as soon as she delivers her first line "Small, but Mighty!" inspired by her young son. Her articles are just as enchanting as if she were there in the room.  After reading this article you will know all you need to know to understand and successfully grow these amazing orchids.  Careful you will be hooked!

Sue Bottom has a style of writing that is straightforward, easy to apply and most of all interesting.  She combines her real life experience lessons learned with her easy going way that we all find a pleasure to read and re-read.  We also look forward to results that ensue after putting her good advice to use.  She has done it again with her article about air movement.  Such a simple concept but so critical to orchids.  Don't miss it!