GREENHOUSE

Plants for Indoor Beauty

Orchids --  The many genera listed under the heading of orchid are quite possible the most sought after, yet misunderstood, blooming indoor plants.  Cattleyas, Cymbidiums, and Dendrobiums are wonderful and each exotically beautiful, but if you are a novice and want to experience easier re-blooming, you may want to try a Phalanopsis (Moth orchid).  These are the most common and longest blooming of all orchids and can usually be purchased in bloom year round.  They come in a variety of colors and often will surprise you with a second set of blooms after the first group of flowers are gone.  For best results, place in bright light and upon a saucer of gravel and water (for humidity).

Bromeliads --  They are beautiful, interesting, exotic and - best of all - easy to care for.  The most common bromeliad is the Guzmania, which is available in a number of varieties (colors).  This is the best indoor plant for people that want color, but don't have time or can't remember to water.  The leaves of the bromeliad form a cup at the base of the plant.  Water should be kept in this cup and the soil kept damp for plant longevity.  Purchase a plant whose flower is just developing, and you will enjoy the bloom for six months to a year.  After a year or so, small shoots should appear.  These shoots can be snapped off the parent plant, potted, and grown for future blooms.

Cyclamen --  With their colorful, butterfly-like flowers, cyclamen are one of the most popular and unusual indoor plants.  Cyclamen flowers even during the short days of winter and it tolerates cooler temperatures.  Even when not in bloom, its variegated foliage provide interest.  This plant can be nurtured for several years of blooms and is a great alternative or addition to your holiday plant display.  In early summer, your cyclamen will take about a one month break, where it will die back completely.  Water sparingly, and before you know it, you will have new leaves and flowers again.  When selecting your cyclamen for purchase, look for multiple buds amongst the leaves.