subject: Caring For Orchids [print this page] Most people who have never tried caring for orchids usually think that such an activity is either expensive or boring. On the contrary, there can never be a dull moment when you are taking care of these orchids. In fact, the simple orchid has about 25,000 species, and currently has more than 100,000 hybrid varieties. It is not that difficult to find the variety that suits your lifestyle and your budget.
When caring for orchids, you need to find out if there are certain requirements that are specific to the orchid variety you have chosen. Although most of the orchid blooms can be taken care of much like ordinary house plants, there are some varieties that require special attention.
The most common variety of the orchid that you often see is the phaleanopsis. This is a white or purple orchid that is a famous choice among new orchid hobbyists, because they are easy to care for.
Caring for orchids is quite easy once you know more about the characteristics of the orchid variety that you have chosen. Remember that most orchids normally thrive on temperatures between 55-80 degrees Fahrenheit. You can easily tell if the orchids are getting exposed to extreme sunlight if the leaves are turning yellow. It is then important to make sure that your orchids are not getting too much of the midday sun, but instead just enjoying the morning and afternoon sunlight. You can also use fluorescent lights placed about one foot above your orchid blooms, although mild sunshine is still recommended.
They have to be watered properly, keeping them moist, yet not over watered. There are some varieties that do not need to be watered frequently, perhaps only once a week. On the other hand, there are some that need to be kept in a water tray. Make sure to find the right information about the orchid variety that you have chosen when it comes to water and sunlight requirements.
Caring for orchids requires some attention to details. For instance, the best time to fertilize your orchids is before it blooms. After you see some buds opening up, do not fertilize any more. Also, you would need to occasionally inspect your orchids, and prune dead leaves or falling blooms. This way, you will make room for new buds to open up.
You can find satisfaction knowing that you had done well in caring for orchids, once you see gorgeous, fragrant orchid flowers adorning your front lawn or your terrace. When caring for orchids is done the right way, they can bloom for about three months, looking much the same way they did on the first day the buds opened up. They can enhance any part of your home and can provide beauty which can last for a long time.
