Orchids were once to be found only in their tropical native habitats, or in the collection of the wealthy, who could afford to pay specialists to grow them. It has since been shown that orchids can be cultivated as easily as many ordinary garden plants - once their special requirements are understood.
The orchid family is the most diverse of the plants, with probably more species yet to be discovered. This guide gives specific directions for housing, growing apparatus, watering, light, temperature, pests and diseases. It also includes substitutes for hard-to-obtain materials.
The book has a comprehensive index which includes a guide to the pronunciation of difficult names. Colour illustrations and diagrams support the text.
