"Lost" meaning dead plants? If so, you should back off on how many you're buying and just learn to grow a few well, then move on to more. Although I kind of envy those of you who are coming into this in the age of the internet, the reason we old-timers learned so much is because we had fewer to learn on. It's easier to figure it out when you have 10 than when you have 50... (Oh, and it took 10 years to find 10!!)

Denise in Omaha

Right you are Denise. The absolute joy of finding an uncommon plant in a nursery has been lost by the easy access to obtaining the rarest plants on the internet. Now it is mostly about shopping and it is easy to get out of control. So many choices,

Maybe it would be better to downsize and sell some hoyas so that it is down to a number that you can manage. I understand that it is hobby and easy to get addicted but it can also become out of control and overwhelming rather than enjoyable. Some people might not mind a challenge but I would stick to hoyas that you know you have the experience to care for rather than worrying about things that might not be anything to worry about. No offense I understand that you have invested a lot of money, maybe try getting a refund if possible. Most sellers are usually willing to offer replacement plants if you want one. Before I decide to buy a Hoya I research it first in terms of care and what conditions it needs. And sometimes you make mistakes but you can also learn from your mistakes and gain insight into your mistakes and learn what not to do next time. Also some hoyas are difficult even for the most experienced grower. You can learn from your experience and decide which ones that you feel that you are to able to take care of properly rather than become frustrated and disappointed by hoyas that don't survive. When it becomes too overwhelming it isn't enjoyable any more. Those are just my two cents. It is up to you to decide what to do.

You're all correct:-) I know some were my mistakes, others well - the dogs got to some and my son "helped water" without my knowledge but some never looked great from the day I received them. I learned my lesson with cuttings. I'm just not good at it unless it's an easy variety like Carnosas, Pubicalyxs etc.

I had been ramping up since I'm getting a greenhouse this fall but my conditions right now in the house and on the porch may not be ideal.

I will continue to browse and if a beautiful Carnosa variety (that I don't already have) comes up, I might just go for it. I've been looking for a nice size Krinkle 8.

i also have 16 citrus trees to research and that is the biggest reason for the greenhouse.

Maybe I'll start a slush fund with money I would have spent on Hoyas, I'll save up for that Botox and Juvederm. :-)

I am sad your feeling bad about this, Monica. Hobbies as addictive as plants, can lead you astray in the blink of any eye. So, you spent $58.33 a month last year on something just for you, that you truly enjoy. That really is not much to spend on something that gives so much pleasure and reward. We are all going to loose another plant,. As long as we keep bringing new ones in, some are going to die. And man, is that struggle trying to save it, ever miserable. But those are the plants that educate us, and make us good teachers for others as they learn. Sharing the love of plants with friends and here is a big part of the fun. There are much worse addictions for us to be doing. This is a pretty healthy pastime. It just sounds to me like your'e due for a green house. Congratulations, It will be so amazing.