How to Grow Orchids – a Plan for Success

Taking care of orchids is not nearly as daunting as it might seem. Though they have a reputation for being challenging, this only serves to make orchid growing all the more enjoyable.

With so many different types of incredible orchid species, you have such an array to choose from: different colors, different sizes, different growing conditions. Horticulturists have developed so many new hybrid varieties that it is becoming hard to keep a track of them all.

You may choose a terrestrial species that prefers to grow on the ground, or a lithophyte plant that likes to position itself on a rock, or you may even choose the challenge of an epiphyte orchid that likes to grow high up on a tree trunk.

Whichever type you choose, there are some things you need to know. Here is a plan for success to ensure you are enjoying your orchid for many years to come:

1. Watering your orchid

Though many feel they are doing the right thing when watering their plant every day, but your orchid doesn’t like sitting in a pool of water. This is leaving it susceptible to root rot, which is a common problem with orchids.

Allow the roots of the plant to dry before watering again; this might mean only watering once a week. This will vary depending on your plant and the type of environment you are keeping it in, but you can easily check the dampness in the soil with a finger.

You should use a potting material that is specially designed and formulated for optimal orchid growth as soil on its own will pack tightly around the plant’s roots, leaving no room for air circulation.

2. Choosing the right temperature for you orchid

Individual orchid varieties do have individual preferences, but as a sub-tropical species you can expect that your orchid will enjoy warmer temperatures as opposed to colder ones. That said, they do enjoy a decreased overnight temperature, so be sure to turn off the heater at night!

3. The right light

Direct sunlight could be harmful to your orchid. They are often used to growing in forested areas surrounded by other competing vegetation. This vegetation shades the orchid form direct sunlight. To mimic the orchid’s natural environment, use a shade or light curtain.

4. Choosing the right humidity

By placing a water source nearby, you are increasing the humidity in the immediate surrounding air. Orchids love humidity. As very few people own a hothouse it is important to use whatever means you have to help create a natural environment.

5. Fertilize your orchid

Food is just as important as water. Your orchid has no way of collecting nutrients from the surrounding air if it is placed indoors. To solve this problem you can use fertilizer once a week. Added to its water, this provides all the minerals and essential nutrients that your plant would normally get from natural sources.

By following these few tips on taking care of orchids you will be enjoying their stunning blooms in no time at all.