subject: A Brief Introduction to Amazing Orchids Growing [print this page] Orchids are probably the most preferred house plants which have become favorite in a short period of time. Orchids are considered as the second largest flowering plant family which includes about 24,000 species all around the world. They can be found in bare nature as well as hybrids cultivated in gardens and plant houses.
As a matter of fact, they grow very easy, as long as they are provided with sufficient water, air, light and fertilizers. A lot of orchid species could live comfortably in cool conditions, but some species prefer to live in rooms or places with a temperature of 25 - 30C.
The common and the easiest growing orchids is the Phalaenopsis orchid. It adapts very well in room environments, hence it fits as a favorite flower decoration in homes and offices.
A flower of every orchid species has its own life span. Blooming of the Phalaenopsis flower will last for about 2 3 months, while a Cattleya flower might bloom for about one month only. In terms of frequencies, there are species that bloom only once in a year, while other species could bloom several times in a year. There are species that even bloom continuously during the whole year.
One factor that made orchids favored so much is their fragrance. Some orchids possess wonderful and pleasant fragrance. Their intensity and strength are available in a wide range of variety, from subtle to strong scent, from fruity to flowery. There are even orchids with unique smell like citrus, raspberry, lilac, coconut and chocolate.
The best medium for an orchid plant is in a bark instead of the classical potting soil. Another good medium to plant orchids is the New Zealand sphagnum moss. The best container to place orchids is a pot, which could provide proper water drainage. The disadvantage of using the classical potting soil is that it blocks the air and water circulation at the root part of the orchid
Watering orchids is also a critical factor in caring for orchids. Watering them once or twice in a week will be sufficient. In warmer climate like summer more frequent watering of once every 4 to 5 days is needed. There is a simple rule about watering orchids; the more heat, the more water and the less heat the less amount of water should be provided to your orchid plant. Those orchids that are placed in New Zealand sphagnum moss pots need less watering. Watering these pots once every 7 10 days will be enough.
Light is another important factor to attend to. Different species need different intensity of light, but usually most orchids prefer not too strong light. The best spot to place an orchid pot is at an east facing window where they can enjoy both the morning sunshine and the afternoon shade. As a matter of fact many species are native to tropical areas or countries, where they get used to receive both of this two type of intensity.
Never place an orchid in spots with too strong sunlight. Exposing an orchid to too strong sunlight will cause the leaves to turn yellow. To avoid this happen, you may increase the shade by the means of a sunlight barrier. Yellowing leaves is also a sign of inadequate feeding. Here comes the role of a fertilizer, where you should apply it once every two weeks. Please take note to water you pot prior to applying the diluted fertilizer in case you find a dry potting media.
