Orchid Growing

Orchids

By admin on Monday, July 12th, 2010 | No Comments

Orchids

Orchids have become one of the most favorite house plants very quickly. There are many different species of orchids that can be found naturally and even more hybrids. They are not difficult to grow with the proper amount of care including water, light, fertilizer and air.

While many species of orchids do enjoy cooler conditions, several species do very well in temperatures that are around 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

Orchids

One of the easiest orchids to grow is the Phalaenopsis orchid plant. This species of orchid adapts well to the environment of a home or office. Different species of orchid’s flowers will last for different amounts of time. From the time that the first Phalaenopsis bud opens, the sprays will remain in bloom for the next two to three months. Where as, the flowers on a Cattleyas orchid plant may last up to a month in bloom from the time that the bud opens. Some species of orchids will bloom once a year, while other species will bloom several times a year and some even bloom continuously.

Another aspect of orchids that makes them so popular is their fragrance. Some orchids are wonderfully fragrant. But, the scents from fragrant orchid flowers are extremely variable. Some species of orchid plants are subtle and other species are extremely strong. The scents can range from fruity to flowery. More amazing if the fact that many orchids have familiar aromas such as chocolate, raspberry, coconut, lilac or citrus.
Orchids should be planted in bark rather then typically potting soil. They can also be grown in New Zealand sphagnum moss. Orchids need to be grown in pots that will supply them with good drainage. Typical potting soil is bad for orchid plants because it cuts off air circulation at the roots and blocks the drainage of the water. They should also be watered about once or twice a week. During the summer, your orchid plant may need to be watered more frequently about every four to five days. A good rule of thumb to follow is the more heat, the more water you should give your orchid. The less heat, the less amount of water. Orchid plants that are potted in New Zealand sphagnum moss should be water less often then those planted in bark. These plants can be watered once every seven to ten days.

Orchids

Depending on the species of orchid, they prefer a lot of light that is not too strong. They do very well sitting in an east facing window. Since many orchid species can be found naturally in tropical conditions, they are used to receiving both shade and sun. Sun exposure that is too strong. Orchids that are suffering from either too much light will display yellowing leaves. If this occurs you should increase the shade that your orchid receives. Yellowing of orchid leaves may also indicate insufficient feeding. Orchid plants should be fertilized on a regular basis about every other week. You should also water your orchid plant before applying the diluted nutrient solution if the potting media is dry.