Orchids have become one of the most favorite house plants very quickly.There are many different species of orchids that can be found naturally and even more hybrids.They are not difficult to grow with the proper amount of care including water, light, fertilizer and air. Although orchids ideally thrive in cooler conditions, there are species that can live in warmer climates.
One of the easiest orchids to grow is the Phalaenopsis orchid plant.This species of orchid adapts well to the environment of a home or office.Different species of orchid’s flowers will last for different amounts of time.The bud of the Phalaenopsis rarely opens up, but when it does, it blooms for two to three months.Comparably, the flower of the Cattleyas orchid plant only blooms for a month.The bloom of orchid flowers vary from several times annually, once a year, to throughout the year.
Another aspect of orchids that makes them so popular is their fragrance.Some orchids are wonderfully fragrant.But, the scents from fragrant orchid flowers are extremely variable.Some species of orchid plants are subtle and other species are extremely strong.The scents can range from fruity to flowery.More amazing is the fact that many orchids have familiar aromas such as chocolate, raspberry, coconut, lilac or citrus.
Contrary to typical planting methods, orchids are better planted in bark rather than in soil. They can also be grown in New Zealand sphagnum moss.Orchids need to be grown in pots that will supply them with good drainage.Traditional methods of soil potting is not ideal for orchid plants because it cuts off air and blocks water drainage.Orchids need to be watered once or twice weekly to maintain its water requirement.During the summer, your orchid plant may need to be watered more frequently about every four to five days.A good rule of thumb to follow is the more heat, the more water you should give your orchid.In cooler climates, less water is needed.If your orchid is potted in New Zealand sphagnum moss, there is lesser need to water it compared to barked orchids.These plants can be watered once every seven to ten days.
Depending on the species of orchid, they prefer a lot of light that is not too strong.It is best to position your orchids on a window facing east.Since many orchid species can be found naturally in tropical conditions, they are used to receiving both shade and sun.Sun exposure that is too strong.A sign that your orchid is suffering from overexposure to sunlight is when its leaves are turning yellow.If that happens, relocate your orchid to a place with more shade.Yellow leaves may also indicate that your orchid is not receiving enough nutrients and water. Orchid plants should be fertilized on a regular basis about every other week.If your moss or bark is dry, water should also be applied prior to applying the fertilizer solution to the orchid.
Posted under Miscellaneous Content
This post was written by admin on September 7, 2010
