Four Seasons of Orchids

by Greg Allikas, Ned Nash

Long prized by collectors and specialist cultivators, orchids are commonly (and mistakenly, as it turns out) believed to be difficult to grow and maintain. In fact, many varieties are as easily grown as any other perennial.
There are as many as 20,000 species with the family Orchidae , including plants that bear some of Earth's most showy and flamboyant flowers. This superb book presents a selection of the most exceptional orchids anywhere, all of which can be cultivated at home. But unlike other books on this topic, Four Seasons of Orchids is divided by the season in which they flower. Compiled by renowned orchid photographer Greg Allikas and recognized orchid expert (and American Orchid Society judge) Ned Nash, the book is organized into four parts, Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter, making it easy for any horticulturalist to plan his or her orchid year with dazzling displays of color. Full of magnificent, unique photographs and accompanied by a wealth of advice for their cultivation, this book is as beautiful as it is useful.

256 pages, Paperback

First published October 1, 2007

Reviews

[Valeria · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the best and most useful book on Orchids I have read to-date, all the others I have found quite disappointing. It is for those of us who love our orchids, do not have a greenhouse yet, those who have been given orchids as a house warming gift and have learned to love them, it might not be for experts it's great for novice to intermediate especially if you have a multitude of different species. I like the fact that it is divided by season and with a section for the flowering of the different species, very helpful to learn about feeding habits, re-potting, cutting (which I found it seems very difficult to find a book with good instructions) and temperature.

[Jane Dugger · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hello - my name is Jane and I love orchids. I own 22 orchids.

*tap, tap*

Is this thing on?

OK - I rarely put my hobby books on GR (and I don't know why? *whiney voice*) But this one was amazing! Great pictures. Useful information. It really re-ignited my passion. I want to build a true greenhouse so I can buy more & complete my obsession. (Did anyone see the HBO-miniseries, "Bernard & Doris"? It's about Doris Duke and she has an amazing orchid collection & greenhouse. So now I can't wait to go to FL this summer to visit the orchid museum there (beware Lauren).

I guess I need to buy this one because the library just sent me a bill for it.

[Debbie Vest · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was helpful in identifying the photos of orchids I took in Costa Rica. It is also a good educational tool for beginners.

[Courtney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of great info. Still not the perfect book. Man this is hard!

[Annie Oosterwyk · Rating 5 out of 5]

great photos, breaks down tasks by season for different varieties