cover image Orchid Growing Illustrated

Orchid Growing Illustrated

Brian Rittershausen. Blandford, $29.95 (159pp) ISBN 978-0-7137-1365-7

Orchids are not the easiest plants to grow, but for serious gardeners, preferably those with a greenhouse, the Rittershausens describe in detail the many requirements for success; while encouraging amateurs, though, this book is clearly aimed toward the experienced. The rather dry text is more then compensated for by a multitude of photographs, both black-and-white and color. In fact, the pictures really tell the story, with text captioning the illustrations. With a subject as diverse as orchids, which grow naturally in almost every part of the world, and whose needs are as different as their origins, the Rittershausens have managed to convey their expertise to those who are looking for a demanding but rewarding challenge. October 15