Good old orchids

A good beginner plant is the widely available Phalaenopsis, often called moth orchid because its round, oversize petals resemble a flying moth. It comes in many colors - white is famous - and in solids, stripes, and spots.

It grows low and compact, likes consistent watering and fertilizing, and prefers a temperate atmosphere. It adapts well to windowsills or fluorescent lights and blooms for several months, from autumn to spring. Some go year-round.

One of Julie MacKenzie's moth orchids has been in bloom for more than six months. "The flowers were burgundy-spotted at first, now pale pink. I buy things I like to look at," says MacKenzie, who belongs to the Bucks County Orchid Society and has more than 50 orchids.

In summer, they hang from trees or decorate the deck. In winter, they thrive on windowsills or under lights, creating a heavenly, tropical feel in an otherwise traditional suburban setting.

With winter looming, what could be better?

"Orchids make winter more bearable," she says.

Read garden writer Virginia A. Smith's blog at www.philly.com/philly/

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Contact garden writer Virginia A. Smith at 215-854-5720 or vsmith@phillynews.com.