This is the time each year when I am ready to be done with winter, but sometimes winter is not quite done with us. But in the greenhouse, it is definitely spring!
Longer days mean more sun, and more sun means more growth, which ultimately more flowers. Below are examples of some of the orchids that are in bloom in our greenhouse today.
Cattleyas
It’s nice to have Cattleyas blooming again; it really brightens up the greenhouse. At one time large flowered Cattleyas ruled the flower market in spring for Easter and prom corsages.
Dendrobiums
Both of these are deciduous cane-type Dendrobiums. The canes grow straight up until they are about 2-3′ in length and are too heavy to support themselves, At that point they bend over and trail down. The flower buds form at each leaf joint in the early spring and provide colorful and nicely scented flowers.
Oncidiums
Spider orchids and other various Oncidium alliance orchids that bloom throughout and spring and summer and are generally available from us at the Carrboro Farmers Market.
The orchids in the greenhouse are absolutely stunning!