Donna, I enjoyed the links to the garden web. I got a kick out of the
non orchid growers trying to give advice. On the other hand, a few gave
very good advice. The one who compared orchids to peanuts obviously has
some inside information!
I can also confirm it is an Oncidium or close relative. Follow advice on
growing Oncidiums and it should bloom. When it blooms, the flowers will
narrow down it's identity considerably.
Take Ray's advice on using Semi-hydro culture. With that, you can avoid
some of the common beginner mistakes such as over watering. Go to Ray's
web site and look around for information.
Regular orchid mix in a regular pot will work too but you'll have a
harder time judging how much to water. Either way, give it good light
and it should bloom.
One more thing. Don't worry about the 3 hour drive home. Very few
orchids mind having dry roots for hours or all day for that matter.
Yours will have no problem on the trip home. (Just don't cook it in a
closed car if you stop for lunch on the way home!) :-)

Steve


Donna deMedicis wrote:
Hey all --

While on vacation in Charleston, SC, this week, I found this plant, on
top of a trash can:


http://forums2.gardenweb.com/forums/...0157186.html?7

http://forums2.gardenweb.com/forums/...930148.html?11


Consensus of opinion is that it is, um, an orchid.

I know not orchids, but I couldn't resist a found plant.

It was not in a pot, but it's roots seem to be really healthy. In fact,
the entire plant is healthier than many of my houseplants at home!

My problem --

I can't get a definitive ID on the plant. From my research this week,
growing medium and the like depends on the kind or orchid.

Currently, said discarded orchid is residing in my hotel bathroom, with
its roots wrapped in a hotel towel. Trip home is short ('bouts 3 hours).

My plan --

When I get home tomorrow, I'm gonna go to Lowe's and buy the bagged
Orchid Soil Mix. Pot it in a planter a bit bigger than it's base. Put
it on a pebble tray in my southeast window. Watch and see what it does.

Any suggestions about what kinda plant it is?

What's wrong with my plan?

Donna