Basic info source?

[irish_undaground]

I'm brandnew to growing orchids: I was given one as a gift. I know nothing about orchids, but I love this one and want to learn to take excellent care of it. I'm very happy I've found this site, but I need some introductory material that's even more basic than the basic information you give here.

The info I've found on the web is confusing: some of it is vague, and what I read on one site may contradict what I've read on another site. Could anyone recommend some very introductory sources of information on getting started with orchids, either on line or in print? Is Orchids For Dummies reliable?

BTW I don't even know what type of orchid I have. I understand that I need this info in order to know how to care for it. Having looked at the identification guide here I think it may be a cymbidium, but I'm not completely sure. I'm going to post a photo on the identification thread asking for help as soon as I can.

Thanks for any advice you can give me.

[jsehorn]

The American Orchid Society is a good place to start out. Here's their orchid basics page:
Orchid Basics

And here are their culture sheets for commonly grown genera.
AOS Culture Sheets

[orchidea]

Originally Posted by irish_undaground

I'm brandnew to growing orchids: I was given one as a gift. I know nothing about orchids, but I love this one and want to learn to take excellent care of it. I'm very happy I've found this site, but I need some introductory material that's even more basic than the basic information you give here.

The info I've found on the web is confusing: some of it is vague, and what I read on one site may contradict what I've read on another site. Could anyone recommend some very introductory sources of information on getting started with orchids, either on line or in print? Is Orchids For Dummies reliable?

BTW I don't even know what type of orchid I have. I understand that I need this info in order to know how to care for it. Having looked at the identification guide here I think it may be a cymbidium, but I'm not completely sure. I'm going to post a photo on the identification thread asking for help as soon as I can.

Thanks for any advice you can give me.

I have "orchids for Dummies" and find it very basic and informative.
The other good one but difficult to find (I had a bit difficulty) and very basic is "All about Growing Orchids" by Ortho.
Both books are reviewing genera by genera with basic discribtions of how to take care of them. Good luck!!!!

[RebelCowgirl]

I have "The Complete Guide to Orchids" By Miracle-Grow, and it is a basic starter guide. I reference it every once in a while. Good book to have on hand.

[irish_undaground]

Thank you all for your excellent advice! I've subscribed to the American Orchid Society's beginners' newsletter. I've found the Ortho and Miracle-Gro books (both used) online. I'm sure my local bookstore can get me Orchids for Dummies.