Read This Information About Orchids Before You Buy
Orchids are inexpensive and easy to grow
Orchids are inexpensive and easy to grow. That is not the information about orchids that most people have. Unfortunately, because it is true. Just like with many other things, orchids have a price range. From the low end of about $30 for a healthy orchid, all the way up to $300 or more for some special, priced orchids. Even higher if you look at same rare types. If you are looking for cheap houseplants, don't get an orchid. However, if you want long lasting, spectacular blooms, you will have to pay a bit more for an orchid.
Myth number two is often what stops us from acquiring an orchid: Orchids are difficult to grow. Growing orchids successfully is no more difficult than growing many other indoor plants. You just have to have some basic information about orchids, such as:
1. Soil: must be well draining and either spaghnum moss, bark or special orchid soil, depending on the type of orchid.
2. Ideal temperatures are between 55degF and 80degF (12C to 27C), depending on the type of orchid. Cooler temperatures (around 55degF/12C) are important during dormant times. Of course, if you plan to have outdoor orchids, select a type that grows naturally in your climate zone.
3. Light requirements: The natural environment of orchids is tropical to high mountain. Orchids often grow in wooded areas, but still need a lot of light. Most of it however diffuse, or indirect. Direct sunlight will burn the leaves.
4. Watering: Do not over-water your orchids. It will kill them. Water every 5-8 days, after confirming that the soil or bark is dry.
5. Fertilizer: Like most house plants, orchids need fertilizer. Use a fertilizer that is formulated specifically for orchids. Adjust frequency and concentration for your orchid's specific need, and reduce during dormant times.
6. Humidity requirements: Relative humidity levels of 40% or higher should be maintained. You can provide these levels, locally around your orchids by setting the pots on a water tray. This creates a micro-climate of higher humidity around the orchids as the water in the tray evaporates.
Use the list above as a starting point. It will set the foundation for successful orchid growing. Time to look at the orchids themselves.
Over 20,000 types of orchids and over 100,000 hybrid combinaitons of orchids either grow naturally or have been created by growers. No other plant family has that many species. Of course, not all of these can be grown at home. And you will still have many colors, shapes, and scents to chose from.
Orchids grow in two fundamental ways: terrestrial and epiphytic. Epiphytic orchids grow in trees, attached by their roots to the tree trunk or to branches. The roots are thin and can be very long. They are exposed to the air and extract humidity from the air. These orchids feed on the nutrients from organic matter trapped in the bark. They must be grown on loosely packed bark or bark-like material, in pots that drain really well and allow air to circulate around the roots. Moth orchids (Phalaenopsis) and Dendrobiums are examples of epiphytic orchids.
As the name implies, terrestrial orchids grow in soil. Not just any soil though. They need a well draining type of soil like sphagnum moss. The roots of terrestrial orchids are tuber like. From these, the plant grows leaves and flower stems, like fingers on a hand. Cymbidiums are of terrestrial orchids, as are the well know lady slippers.
For beginners, I recommend starting with denrobium or phalaenopsis orchids. They are easy to care for and will reward you with beautiful long lasting blooms. Use the orchid care information from above to guide you.
by: Marylin Tschopper
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