Caring For Orchids

Orchids are some of the most enduring and hardy plants in the world. They can thrive in virtually any environment. Understand the environments carefully and how they affect the particular orchids that grow in them is very important.

So the first rule of thumb in orchid care is to know where your plants come from. Here is the short and simple guide. Epiphytes grow and flourish on tree trunks while hardy lithophytes make their home on rock and rock surfaces. On the other hand, the myco-heterotrophs are those that lack chlorophyll and feed on nutrients from decaying plant matter. The last category and one in which a large number of today’s household orchid plants belong to are called terrestrial plants.

Most household orchids include the popular varieties such as the Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid), Dendrobium, Cymbidium and the lovely Cattleya or the Corsage Orchid. Even if these varieties are quite common, don’t think that it automatically becomes foolproof orchid care.

One should consider that successful orchid care involves being aware that varieties still follow their geographic influences with some general rules.

Question, How To Care For Orchids

Orchid Care Tip 1: Although orchids do not require extra care, you should remember that if you’re living in a temperate country, only bring them out during the summer. Regular living room temperature is suitable for orchids to grow normally.

Orchid Care Tip 2: Ask the nursery for orchids that can grow optimally in particular parts of your house; example, your porch, living room or window sill. Such special locations are suitable for certain hybrids.

Orchid Care Tip 3: Try a variety or hybrid that is easy like Phalaenopsis if you are a novice orchid grower. People like this variant because it can flower all year as compared to others who normally only blossom once a year. Cutting the stem after flowering will ensure that it will blossom again because there will be growing new stem segment.

Orchid Care Tip 4: There is no problem to fertilize your orchids. Just to make sure that you follow certain conditions such as the orchids’ flowering season. While general fertilizers are okay, try looking for special formulations specifically just for orchids.

Orchid Care Tip 5: If you are new to the orchid care, it is recommended to go online and participate in orchid related forums or websites, or join the horticultural societies. There is nothing more encouraging and fulfilling than sharing your new found passion with others who feel the same way of caring for orchids.