Actually, I removed it from the bag, moved it into indirect light, and while keeping some sphagnum moss wrapped loosely around the base, I propped it in a pot with orchid bark. I've kept it moist, but not too wet, and misted frequently... I think my environment and conditions are simply not up to par for certain orchid types. The air in my space is very dry, and the heating unit is propane. Being a small second story apartment, and having the AC and heating units we have, it's very tricky to keep a constant temperature. It's ok, though... it's a great learning experience, and has taught me many things. It's not the first plant I've ever killed, and it won't be the last. Without greenhouse conditions, which I just can't duplicate indoors, I'm afraid some types of orchids simply aren't going to perform. So far, Cymbidiums and Epidendrums seem to do best, with Dendrobiums following close behind. Phals don't seem to like it here, although I do have a young species type that is thriving. Encyclias seem to like it ok, and the one Oncidium I have is alive and green. The Paph I have is doing fine, as well. There is new growth on many of my orchids, the Cyms with the most new growth. Without perfect orchid conditions, I do the best I can... actually, I'm very surprised that so many of my orchids are doing as well as they are! Losing one backbulb is not the end of the world... I'll learn from it, and move forward. I'm just very appreciative to have had the opportunity to try growing it! Thanks, Richard... I'm glad that your generosity allowed me to learn something new!

I dumpster-dived at the Ace Hardware last night. They throw out a lot of plastic flats for plants this time of year, which I collect and donate to a local greenhouse/nursery operation - they love them. And there was a pile of distressed plants, which I sorted out and repotted to see if I can get them going. 8 Salvia and one each marigold, petunia and begonia. Poor little plants. :-] The wife loves Salvia so I get brownie points for saving them.

I also think the pesto idea is the best thing to do. It really preserves the fresh taste of the basil. I make several batches of pesto throughout the summer. I then pour it into ice cube trays, freeze, and them pop them out into zip lock bags. You can use the pesto as a last minute ingredient in hundreds of dishes. My favorite way is just in a bowl with olive oil and some good crusty bread to dunk! Here is the recipe: 2 cups (packed) fresh basil leaves 1/4 cup olive oil Whir in a food processor or blender until fairly smooth. That's it!! A true pesto recipe has parmesan, garlic, and pine nuts, but I leave those out when I'm just wanting to freeze it.

nettiesgarden- I've always thought it funny that something you really want tends to be so close to something you don't. Right now I have some beautiful lillies right next to a bush that I've been hoping to dig up, but low and behold the lilies spread in one direction and are now too close for me to get at the bush without damaging them. Hopefully this fall I'll be able to get them away so we can dig it up. I'll be happy to pass along a pine seedling... do you happen to want a crimson maple seedling as well? Those would be next on my list. :)