subject: There Are So Many Orchid Types I Don't Know Which One To Grow [print this page] This is a concern many beginners have, because with over 30,000 types of orchids, it's not an easy decision to make. Consider some of the factors associated with the different types, and you will find one that will appeal to your fancy as well as one that your environment is most suited for.
Although there are many different species and hybrids of orchids, they can all be grouped into four classes. Epiphytes are aerial orchids that grow on the bark of trees. Terrestrials are orchids that grow in soil or a combination of soil and bark. Lithophytes are orchids that grow in or on rocks, and Saprophytes are orchids that grow in rotten vegetation, such as felled trees and other plants that are decomposing.
Among the most popular orchids grown by orchid lovers around the world are those of the Epiphyte and Terrestrial classes.
Epiphyte orchids have a special root that is strong and surrounded by a spongy covering that can easily absorb and retain water. This group gets their nutrition from organic matter that accumulates between their roots and the bark of trees. Orchids of the Epiphyte variety have the advantage of being able to survive through wet and dry periods. The roots of Epiphyte-type orchids will store water and release it gradually to the plant tissues. It's characteristics like this that make the Epiphyte variety a favorite choice for many home orchid growers. Among the commonly grown types of orchids in this class are the Dendrobium and the Phaleanopsis.
The Dendrobium is an excellent choice for the beginner because of their adaptability to changing temperatures. Dendrobiums do favor warm temperatures, but it's less likely that cooler temperatures will damage them providing it doesn't drop below 15 degrees Celsius (60 degrees Fahrenheit). If you live in a four-season environment, it's best to leave them outdoors in the summer and bring them indoors in the winter.
Another common and popular type of Epiphyte is the Phaleanopsis orchid. These orchids are among the easiest to grow, and have long-lasting flowers. They are a favorite at weddings, gracing the bridal decor with vivid colors of pinks, purples, yellows, and even stripes.
One of the easiest and most popular orchids to grow from the Terrestrial class is the Cymbidium orchid, with over 40 species and thousands of hybrids. In addition to being easy to grow, they bloom three months of the year. Cymbidiums are very fragrant and come in a wide variety of colors. Cymbidium orchids are also considered semi-terrestrial because they can grow in either soil or in tree bark, but they prefer a moist mixture of both soil and bark.
This is just some of the information that is available for the many classes, types, and species of orchids. I would certainly suggest starting off with a very common type of orchid, and then once you gain some experience, look for a more challenging and less common variety. The advantage of choosing a common type of orchid for beginners is that not only are they hardier breeds and more forgiving if you make a mistake, they are also types that have more available information, including information regarding solving problems when they arise, as for beginners, some may well do.
