In her own cherished, diverse collection, orchid society leader shows the many growing possibilities in San Diego climate
Did you know that there are over 25,000 — possibly even 30,000 — orchid species — and that about one in 10 flowering plants in the world is an orchid? That the flavoring vanilla is an orchid?
Recently, I visited the orchid collection and greenhouse of Debby Halliday, president of the San Diego County Orchid Society , who nurtures her collection of 700 to 750 orchids at her Rancho Santa Fe home. Unlike many orchid society members who specialize in specific types or varieties of orchids, Halliday favors diversity.
During my visit, she introduced me to the many vibrant varieties she grows and explained their cultivation and handling. “They mostly have a scent schedule, for example, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. or at dusk, when the moths are out,” Halliday explained, although she pointed out that some produce scent all day.