subject: 4 Orchids to Buy [print this page] When it comes to which orchids to buy, I'd like you to concentrate on the ones that will do the best for you as a customer. I will focus on four that I believe will be the most successful for you as a new orchid grower. This is a diverse group with the ability to satisfy many different tastes. My list is in no particular order.
Cymbidium: This is an extremely popular orchid for both spring and winter blooms. This orchid is one of the simplest to grow. Where climate allows this would be an excellent patio plant. Not only will the plant look great but the blooms can last for up to three months. Water once or twice a week depending upon the ambient temperatures and keep out of direct afternoon light. These orchids like to be on the moist side so water early in the day and by night fall they should be dry. Repot orchids every two years depending upon the growth in the pot. Feed on a regular basis, every other week is good. Watch for aphids, scale and spider mites. Treat when needed.
Dendrobium: Another great choice for the new orchidologist. The range of bloom colors is extensive. Blooms will last on a healthy orchid for up to two months. Get this orchid in the east sun of early morning. If not available a southern window with shade is perfect. Outdoors when the temperature range is night 55 to 60 and daytime 70 to 90 and loves humidity of fifty percent. Use medium size bark for a potting medium. Watering is in accord with the temperature the plant is residing in. During the summer once or twice a week is good while during the winter, water less.
Vanda: These are truly a captivating plant. These are monopodial in orchid talk. The new growths come from the crown of the plant with stunning colors of blue, red, yellow and orange. Spikes or where the blooms are can have as many as eight to ten. The temperature range is from a low of 55 at night to a high of 95 during the day. The more heat, water more often, if the plant is in a basket and hanging, water more often. These orchids love humidity from 60 to 80%. If your back patio is a small rain forest that is wonderful. Misters for additional humidity will be a big benefit. Use medium potting bark in pot or baskets.
Phalaenopsis: This orchid is a popular plant in the United States. This plant will adapt to most environments. The minute the bloom opens you will enjoy an outstanding show of flowers. The blooms should last for 2-3 months. Light, watering and feeding will create an excellent healthy, happy phal orchid. An east window is best for the light or south with shade. Pass on a west window for the light may create too much heat for the orchid. Excess light will burn the leaves. Water to the standard of: if it gets hotter outside water more, if it gets cooler water less. This plant is fond of humidity. Fifty percent would be great, a bathroom or kitchen would be a good fit for the plant. After the plant flowers, cut the orchids stem just under the first bloom. This may encourage another bloom spike.
Always remember, any orchid is a good orchid. If you see one you like go for it.
