No longer the fancy of the wealthy, orchids are now a worldwide hobby for millions. Achieving success with orchids starts with understanding their needs -- so very different from familiar outdoor and indoor plants. And if you are successful just once, it is said, you will be hooked. Well, here's the definitive introduction to growing orchids successfully. Author Jim James was recently awarded a Gold Medal at the 13th World Orchid Conference for his contribution to orchids. In this book, he parts with his four decades of experience and wisdom to help readers grow orchids in their homes, whether on a windowsill or under lights. The particular cultural needs of those orchids commonly grown are dealt with in detail. Color photographs together with diagrams carefully support the text. In addition to specific directions relating to light, temperature, Orchids is a comprehensive resource for: the history of orchids in cultivation how orchids are named acquiring plants creating the right growing environment growing media and containers watering and feeding potting and propagation pests and diseases popular species and varieties, including cattleya, cymbidium, oncidium, paphilopedilum, phragmipedium, phalaenopsis, and more. The author places emphasis less on the botany of the family but more on giving practical advice on selecting and growing orchids likely to be best suited to the conditions a reader is able to provide. He also provides advice on what materials can be substituted where those generally suggested are unobtainable.