The number of different kinds of orchids is vast, some 25,000 different species and more than 100,000 artificial hybrids! For many years, only the rich could acquire these beautiful plants.
People have admired orchids for centuries, cultivating these splendid but hard to please flowers was often more tedious than delightful. For instance, an orchid cultivator may choose the golden slipper orchid (Paphiopedilum armeniacum). That orchid was discovered in 1979. It often imparts a rich golden-yellow to its hybrid offspring, some of which are stunningly beautiful. Patience is a must. She keeps an eye on the seedlings, frequently watering them. At this point, patience is a true virtue. Orchids may take from a few years to over a decade to bloom. A grower may receive awards, and her beautiful plants will command high prices. But regardless of the monetary outcome, the pleasure of seeing a blossom on an orchid that he has crossed is a delight.
Now you know that it took much time and patience to produce the beautiful orchids that you admire. But in reality, God put the complex genetic code in each plant, allowing for such gorgeous blossoms. We are merely the recipients of his artistic love demonstrated among the fascinating variety of orchid hybrids. It is truly as the psalmist David wrote: “How many your works are, O God! All of them in wisdom you have made. The earth is full of your productions.”—Psalm 104:24.
