â¢Posted by summersunshine The easiest, most fool proof way to grow Cattleya orchids in my opinion is to use the "Semi Hydro" method. LOL I've killed any orchid I've tried semi-hydro with. I know folks who have a great deal of success with SH, but I'm not one of them. Orchid bark or large grade coconut husk chunks works well for me (and I grow a lot of orchids). You can even grow the catt as a mounted plant though it will require more frequent watering if it is mounted. Catts, as a whole, require high light -- an unobstructed SE, S, SW or W exposure windowsill can work well for them. Best way to get orchid supplies is to attend an orchid show. Unfortunately, there won't be any in Michigan until January. In the meantime, Lowes used to carry an orchid bark mix that should do. Just make sure you pick out any bits of sphagnum moss they might have in the mix. (Having such is fine for orchids like Phalanopsis but tends to increase water retention more than catts desire.) Many orchids can be grown quite easily indoors. Plumeria typically require a dormancy period during which time they drop all their leaves. If memory serves correctly, during that period, water is reduced to almost zero. (You'd need to check further on that.) For the winter, a cool dry area may suffice for its winter dormancy period. Strelitzia can be grown inside but plants get HUGE. Definitely not a good long term houseplant candidate unless you have a good sized greenhouse to keep it in.

I can't really make out the details. Compare with Tigridia pavonia and Neomarica longifolia and see if either fits.

Sorry, I was just looking for indoor plants that smell good and found these two but have no humidity here. I already gave up on the Sweet Olive (too big and high maintenance) but a Texas gardener suggested using a bell jar or terrarium for the Maid of Orleans Jasmine, which apparently does well here. That sounds great but they sure are expensive when you need one that is big enough for this plant which gets 1 to 2 feet tall. I mean, it's just glass and metal but costs $300!? Thanks for the other outdoor suggestions. I have tropicanna canna, 5 crepe myrtles, and about 21 roses :) and tried azealeas before that died, but pineapple lily sounds intriging. Do they smell like pineapples because I love pineapples?

Hi Here is one of my favorite winter annuals mostly because of the color but also because of it's habit. A Lobelia called "Crystal palace " Another is Fuchsia Spectacular during the cool weather!! Dozens of colors but I favor the large purple and magenta Decided against planting them this year as summer just ended last Monday lol In your area you could probably get both to make it through summer?? They hate my heat and humidity!! gary