Orchid Plant Guide

How To Care For Orchids


A common misconception about orchids is that it is a 'greenhouse only' plant. It is true that some orchid species are difficult to cultivate, and therefore intended only for greenhouse conditions, but there are many other orchid species which if given appropriate conditions and care, grow well in a home environment. Contrary to the popular belief that all orchids need warm temperatures, many orchids prefer a more favorable and cool temperature ranging from 60 to 70 degrees in the day and about 55 degrees in the evening. For a house plant, orchids are quite expensive, so it is recommended that one should always make the choice wisely and according to the conditions which one will be able to provide.

Basic care and requirements of orchids:

The vast majority of orchids that are available for home conditions are the species in nature that grow perched high on the trees, clinging to branches or in the trunk apex of the trees - known as epiphytic jungle plants. Nutrition is taken from the air, rain, and any decaying vegetation that the roots come into contact with. The duplication of the orchid's natural habitat increases your chances of successful growth.

1. Humidity: Orchids demand a high humidity of no less than 50%. Therefore, it is almost necessary for the pots to be positioned above a tray filled with pebbles and water. The orchid pots themselves shouldn't set directly on the pebbles because drainage is an essential element too. Misting the orchids is a wise choice, but this should only be done when there is adequate light and air ventilation so the orchids can dry before nightfall.

2. Watering: Watering should be done weekly when the soil becomes dry, but the orchids must never be allowed to remain wet or soggy for more than a day or two at a time. The most favourable water for watering an orchid is that which has been allowed to sit for 24 hours so the chemicals in the water can dissipate. Orchids should be fed water soluble 'orchid fertilizer' every two weeks during the growing season.

3. Light: The light requirements for orchids vary from species to species. Approximately four hours of sunlight is required during the winter months if you want orchids to thrive and bloom. If natural sunlight is unavailable, the use of fluorescent 'grow lights' can be employed to provide necessary light.

4. Medium of potting: Ready made orchid potting mixes which are available at most garden centers or orchid growers themselves are recommended to be used. One should use mixes mainly because of the ease and availability. Also, it is fairly inexpensive and is specifically blended to the proper texture and pH balance. If you want to customize a mix for your orchid, you can do so by mixing components such as osmunda fiber, ground tree fern stem, or ground bark.

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