Phalaenopsis Journal Second Quarter, Vol. 21(4) 2012 | Page 5

INSIDE THE IPA
T
o me the spring season is indeed the orchid show season, and you will always know that Phalaenopsis will put on their
spectacular flower displays. It is an exciting level of anticipation as they come into flower. Our expectations are satis-
fied as we witness their beautiful blooms. How exciting is this spring experience!
Many of the species Phalaenopsis are spring bloomers, too. We are witness to their natural beauty just as we would observe
them in their natural habitats. Their forms illustrate just how they have adapted over the eons to specific habitats and specific
pollinators. The wonder of their uniqueness and beauty seem unsurpassed by our attempts to compete with them with our
artificial hybrids.
Yet, we have seen the work created by the
imagination and effort of Phalaenopsis
hybridizers. Their perspectives to create the
newest trends are to be admired. Year after
year, their efforts can reap spectacular
results and personal satisfaction. “Hitting
the jackpot” can even produce financial
rewards for the breeder/grower and permit
each of us to enjoy their success through
mericlone production. What a fantastic
assortment to choose from with new ones
appearing regularly.
But, what of the other hybridizers? You
know the ones who pursue a particular
passion with the novelty Phalaenopsis? This
hybridizing is clearly not in the mainstream
of Phalaenopsis hybridizing and most likely
appeals to the most dedicated Phalie lover.
Yet, we are awed when we see them and amazed that many of them are fragrant to our senses.
There are many such hybridizers at work today in pursuit of this objective, and many of them are located here in the U.S. In
the last IPA Journal, we read about the advances in blue (indigo) colors in Phalaenopsis. What dedication to follow the path in
this new direction.
In the past few years, I have had the opportunity to purchase several unique hybrids at our regional IPA meetings and our
annual symposiums. A few of the names you’ll recognize are Peter Lin (bigleaforchids.com), Meir Moses (orchidconnection.
com) and Al Pickerel (orchidexchange.com), H.P. Norton (orchidview.com) and Dick Wells (hilltoporchids.com). There are
others, of course, but these are my recent nursery purchases, and just to name a few of the ones available.
My selections ranged from species sibbings and selfings to unique novelty breeding to produce bright colors, patterns, and
even delightful fragrances. What fun to grow them from small seedlings to mature plants and to see each bloom with their
own unique characteristics and beauty. No, they will not all be keepers, but what great variety! And yes, there will be some
superb examples in each of their offspring. You should give these beauties a try to add to your collection!
So, enjoy the show season and don’t forget our upcoming summer IPA Symposium in Orlando. Growers, breeders and Pha-
laenopsis fanciers from all over the country and abroad will be present to learn from and enjoy this event. How about you?
... continued on page 7
Phalaenopsis - Second Quarter, Vol. 21(4) 2012
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