Ron Ciesinski tends to orchid plants at his Taylor Orchids in Monroe, Mich. Ciesinski has been captivated by the delicate blooms for more than 50 years, and his created varieties have been honored by the American Orchid Society.
THE BLADE/ANDY MORRISON
Buy This Image
Lycaste Jackpot California Wine is among the varieties of orchid at Taylor Orchids in Monroe, Mich.
THE BLADE/ANDY MORRISON
Buy This Image
A Phrag Don Wimber glows in a radiant hue.
THE BLADE/ANDY MORRISON
Buy This Image
Cherry Fudge orchid blossoms look good enough to eat.
THE BLADE/ANDY MORRISON
Buy This Image
Phal Picotee orchid petals have just a kiss of lavender color on the edges. It's a favorite of the greenhouse's owner.
THE BLADE/ANDY MORRISON
Buy This Image
Orchid plants stretch skyward in a hot house at Taylor Orchids in Monroe, Mich.
THE BLADE/ANDY MORRISON
Buy This Image
Orchid show ribbons won by Ron Ciesinski decorate the greenhouse office. "I loved to beat people," says Mr. Ciesinski, 76.
THE BLADE/ANDY MORRISON
Buy This Image
An LC Drumbeat Heritage orchid resembles an exotic, frilly sea creature.
THE BLADE/ANDY MORRISON
Buy This Image
A sign warns Taylor Orchids greenhouse visitors: "Don't Even Think About It!!!"
THE BLADE/ANDY MORRISON
Buy This Image
Little yellow bulbs of pollen are nestled inside petals on a Phalaenopsis orchid.
THE BLADE/ANDY MORRISON
Buy This Image
The peace and joy that tending orchids gives Ron Ciesinski eclipses December’s $2,400 gas bill for heaters that keep the hot houses at 62 degrees.
THE BLADE/ANDY MORRISON
Buy This Image
The name of this orchid is a grand one: C Karae Lyn Sugiyama X Soph Coccinea Grandiflora.
THE BLADE/ANDY MORRISON
Buy This Image
The pouches on slipper orchids, like this yellow and white one at Taylor Orchids, traps insects and forces them to climb past the staminode, which promotes pollination.
THE BLADE/ANDY MORRISON
Buy This Image
Slipper orchids are so named for their resemblance to ladies' footwear or moccasins.
THE BLADE/ANDY MORRISON
Buy This Image
A Sesquipedale orchid at Taylor Orchids looks like it belongs in a starry sky.
THE BLADE/ANDY MORRISON
Buy This Image
"Happiness is Growing Orchids" declares a sign at Taylor Orchids, which is open for business from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays at 3022 Bluebush Rd., Monroe, Mich. Information: 734-243-0180.
THE BLADE/ANDY MORRISON
Buy This Image