Which type should I start with

Peter,

There are around 30,000 species, 200,000 registered hybrids, and countless unregistered ones, so there is bound to be SOMETHING that will fit your desires.

However, growing orchids is nothing like growing other plants. They are a very highly evolved plant family, and each has its cultural niche, so unless your growing conditions and watering habits match a particular plant's needs, you will have difficulties. Conversely, find a good match, and they can be like weeds!

Please read the following:

Dear PeterGreenMan, I notice that your post is out of the gardenbanter so I think you are from across the pond no? Anyway, do yourself a favour & find your nearest orchid society & go to a meeting. You will find some wonderful people that grow in your area & can give you first hand advice. Important factors are shaded sunlight & watering habits. In the mean time, check out Ray's web site, he is amazingly knowledgeable & always helpful. Good luck! Cheers Wendy

Hi wendy7. Yep. Wales UK. Just gone and bought a phalaenopsis fingers crossed...... got i yesterday and it is still living!