Hi!

[c.whitcomb]

Hello friends, my name is Colin and I'm pretty new to growing orchids. I have a Cattelya, a Phal, and a denobrium in an east facing window sill, and all are still alive. I am constantly trouble shooting and worrying and trying to mother them but frequently deciding do just watch and observe rather than tear things apart and repot or something. I just read The Complete Guide to Orchids and it has helped me a lot, but I still lack confidence in managing my plants. Nevertheless, I talk to them everyday and feel for moisture, trying to decide whether or not its time for water.

I've just had a battle with some small flying insects (thrips??) which were mainly attracted to the catt, but have been beaten back fairly well with 2 treatments of insectoidal soap, so, I'm not too worried about that problem.

anyway, I have some questions about the growth of my catt, which is just over a year with me now, and very slow growing. I had better post this in a questions spot, so look for it there.

thanks!

[mayres]

Welcome to the forum Colin. Whenever you have a question about your plants if you can include the name from the tag (unless it is a NOID or no identification tag plant) AND a photo it can usually assist members in giving you excellent advice.

[fred]

hi Colin
Welcome to the forum

I have enclosed 2 links for you that will help you care for your orchids

http://www.aos.org/aos/uploadedfiles...recattleya.pdf

http://www.aos.org/aos/uploadedfiles...lturephals.pdf

we have of members full of knowledge so if you have any questions more just ask

happy chatting

[kmarch]

Welcome Colin! You are off to a fantastic start! You are very wise to watch and observe your plants. It's an excellent way to learn what is expected "behavior" and what is not. It is also an excellent habit to get into as it will enable you to see the early warning signs if troubles do arise.

Your confidence in managing your plants will increase as your knowledge of and experience with them increases.

Happy Growing!