85% of the collection is moved in the greenhouse! I need to get organized, but that will come.

Someone asked about benches...no benches. No temptations to stray away from mostly Vandaceous orchids. My good friend who mainly grows Phalaenopsis told me it is best to specialize in growing "well" not "many." Trying to manipulate the temps to fit everything is an exercise in frustration.

I will be keeping my favorites that fit with the growing conditions, but most others will be put in our MOS charity auction in December.

That is a good plan, Melissa. I think it's better to grow plants well, and not get too crazy about having multitudes of plants. Last winter I tried to have it all. I had plumerias, hibiscus, dracaenas, crown of thorns, Adeniums, Caladiums, tomatoes, onions, peppers, cilantro, violets, geraniums, hanging cacti and more. Now I'm cleaning out the mess. A few went on the compost heap, and I'm trying to clear spaces so more air can circulate. I had an absolute jungle last year, and it encouraged too many insects to take over. Some of the plants are being stored for the winter. Last year was my first year with this greenhouse, and I've learned a lot. I also overwatered, so I'm cutting that way down.

Melissa --

Congratulations on having the new GH up and running and filled with beautiful plants!

The greenhouse is DONE! (except for silicone open spots) Plumbing is complete and final inspection passed!

I have mostly organized the collection for now, but I am sure there will be a few tweaks. I am sitting here with my coffee enjoying the aircon and taking inventory. I am putting all of the orchids into the journal on OrchidWiz (a tedious process). I have finished one whole bar and it held 58 plants. My best guess is ~400 orchids. I will soon know when I finish entering the inventory.

For the inquiring minds, our contractor bill was $16K, but it makes all the difference in the world to have a professional run a large scope project. He organized all of the subs and we finished just 13 days shy of the deadline. Plus everything is to code so I don't have to worry about any nosy neighbor issues. We could have never done it on our own with the double slope in the yard.

I think it is safe to say that this was the best birthday, anniversary, and holiday present ever!

Congratulations, Melissa. That is a wonderful gift!

Your greenhouse is sure to be the talk of your community, Melissa (in a very GOOD way)!