We have two orchid growing projects in the works in this forum. I had the feeling most members of the forum may not realize, what it is and where to find the messages.
The idea is to have a lot of people grow the same orchid over different parts of the country and see the different results.
I have not seen many newbies joining and think you are missing a lot of fun.
Do not let lack of experience deter you. This is not a contest that might make you feel embarrassed. You do not even have to post your results.
There is something to interest everyone in these events.
The species group can be found here
http://www.orchidgeeks.com/forum/species-growing-project-1/5850-species-project-poll.html
They are starting to take a poll about which orchid should be chosen.
The hybrid orchid project is just getting rolling and polling for the choice is about a week away. You can find the discussion here.
http://www.orchidgeeks.com/forum/hybrid-growing-project-1/5803-jerry-meola-s-hybrid-plant-list.html
The trend so far is for some very interesting plants and generally easy to grow and maybe flower in less than a year. Most selections seem to be for medium to low light level plants.
Read the two threads and even if you do not get an orchid to participate keep following the results. You can lurk in the background if you like, but it will be more fun to participate.
You may learn a lot. We all may learn a lot. You can judge the different types of growing medium, weather conditions, and overall care without buying dozens of plants yourself.