Marvelous Miniatures, Gems of the Orchid World

Harry Phillips was born in San Diego, California on July 9, 1953. His father taught him to appreciate plants at an early age. In January of 1963, Harry’s brother Andy Phillips (of Andy’s Orchids fame) was born, and six years later is when it all started. They were both exposed to exotic plants and flowers at an early age, but when Andy became interested and later obsessed with orchids, Harry somehow resisted becoming involved with them for as long as he could. He assisted Andy in his passion by building his first two green houses, and Andy would reward him with a hybrid that was in bloom, tell him to bring it back when it goes out of bloom, and exchange it for one in bloom. Well, this would only last about a year until he decided that he wanted to keep one and get it to re-bloom, the beginning of the end.

In 1986 Harry, with his soon to be wife Leslie, moved with Andy and his orchid collection to Encinitas, California. Being constantly exposed to all of Andy’s orchids was beginning to have an effect on Harry. Shortly after, Andy left for four months in Costa Rica, and placed Harry in charge of the collection. When Andy returned he found that Harry had not killed too many plants and managed to become even more addicted. Andy, now feeling more confident about leaving his orchid collection under Harry’s care, began to plan a cycling trip through South America, which ended up lasting two years. After that it was all over for Harryundefined he was completely addicted to orchids.

Harry assisted Andy part time for 10 years, going full time around the end of 1998. His interest in miniature orchids began several years ago while constantly being exposed to Andy’s minis. He decided he would try some for himself, and that was the way the story starts. Harry would like to share some of his thoughts on growing and choosing the right mini for your conditions, or creating a growing area with miniatures in mind. Once you get to know and appreciate them, miniatures will be a larger part of your collection.

Preordering from Andy's Orchids

Preorders must be placed no later than April 8, 2012.  Anyone interested in a preorder can go to http://www.andysorchids.com to make their selection and then e-mail it to Andy's at info@andysorchids.com or call (888) 514-2639 and the shipping is free.