subject: Proven Guidelines to Caring for Orchids [print this page] Successfully caring for orchids is not just for the sophisticated grower or wealthy class as many people believe. Orchids can be cultivated successfully by almost anyone because of the incredible variety of species that exists.
There are over 25,000 species alone and more than 100,000 orchid hybrids which allows any person from virtually any place in the world to find an orchid type within their personal budget that will thrive despite the diverse growing conditions around the world.
In most cases, most people discover that caring for an orchid does not demand any more effort and skill than any other house plant. But just like any plant, growing orchids successfully requires some understanding of the specific species selected and its care needs.
Take a little time to understand the species you have selected. Note the types of pots and potting mediums required. Buy the right fertilizer and understand the lighting and watering needs of your particular plant.
By learning the basics, you will have all the skills needed to grow an orchid successfully and enjoy the beauty of the most fragile but gorgeous blossoms of these unique plants. This second to none beauty is what makes orchid growers so passionate and devoted.
In not time at all, you will have your first orchid with blossoms just like the local orchid store. You will feel like a pro!
If you are fortunate, you may have received an orchid as a gift or a thoughtful surprise from a dear friend. And the type of orchid most often given as a gift is known as a Phal orchid or Phaleanopsis.
The Phal orchid is known for its vivid white or purple petals and they are typically one of the easiest species to care for compared some other orchid options available.
Whether by a gift or direct purchase, you can expect most of the common orchid types to bloom for roughly 2-3 months if you have provided the proper care.
Most importantly, be sure your orchid gets enough light but not direct. Place them near a window and avoid the direct midday sunlight that can be too intense for most orchids.
Early morning sunshine is best so look for a place on the eastern side of your home, if possible. For some climates where winter sunlight is poor, you can replace natural sunlight with lighting from a fluorescent light situated about 12 to 14 inches over the orchid plant.
Temperature is also a key growing factor. Keep your orchid in places that maintain temperatures above 55 degrees Fahrenheit but not over 80 to 85 degrees. In temperatures above 90 degrees, orchids will start shedding their buds and may cease to bloom altogether.
Orchids need a potting medium that is moist but too much. A common cause of failure among new orchid growers is over watering. Sometimes it is best to wait another day even when you think the plant needs water just to be safe.
Expect to water every 7-10 days for most orchid types. A potted orchid can also be placed in a container of water to create a more humid environment but be careful to not allow the roots of the orchid to be in direct contact with the water or it will be damaged.
A common tip for keeping your orchid blooming as long as possible is to fertilize just before it blooms. Once the blooms appear, additional feeding is not usually needed.
Pruning your orchid while it is blooming is another key suggestion to prolong your blooming plant. By learning and providing the proper care for your orchid, you can enjoy the beauty of these wonderful flowers throughout their entire blooming season.
