Orchids are growing in popularity. They are becoming one of the favored houseplant varieties. Even the traditional favorites like African violets are losing appeal. The orchids come in so many colors and sizes that everyone has a favorite among the bunch. With all the information that is available today, growing orchids is simpler than ever. They do require some very specific amounts of vital resources. Light, water, food, and air must be provided in amounts that match their natural growing environments. There are orchids that thrive in both cooler and warmer climates. Most will thrive inside the average home with a temperature of between 75 and 85 degrees. Growing orchids does take time and attention devoted to them to becoming the true beauties that they are.
The Phalaenopsis orchid is considered by experts one of the easiest orchid plants to grow. These hardy plants are adaptive and thrive in an office or home environment. The bud will open and remain that way up to twenty four weeks. Some species will have blooms that only last for up to a month. There are even a few special species that will bloom for a whole year. Some prefer to bloom several times a year. It is all dependent on what type environment these beauties are being adopted into that can dictate how often they bloom. Growing orchids needs to be done in a protected area, away from changes in temperature and light. Light sources need to be carefully controlled by the grower.
Growing orchids is best done when they are planted in bark rather than in potting soil. A grower can even grow orchids in sphagnum moss. Many times consumers will notice that when they buy a live potted orchid at local nurseries it will be planted in moss. The roots of the growing orchids need air circulation to survive. Potting soil is so heavy that it literally smothers the plant. Watering routines vary depending on the species and the time of year. Summertime usually requires the plants to be watered every week. The hotter it is the more water the orchid will need. One of the biggest obstacles is finding a spot in the home that can be to set up everything and no have it disturbed. There is something exciting about growing orchids.
Light is a very specific need for growing orchids. Without light, the orchid will not have enough stored energy to bloom. With too much light, it will burn and die. Yellowing leaves will occur with too much sunlight or too little food. Trying to the find the right mix of light, water and nutrients can present several problems. Fertilize the plants with special orchid food about once a week. While orchids appear so light and delicate for all their faults, they are hearty plants. They are resistant to loss of moisture and heat. They are, however, very sensitive to changes in light and temperature. Growing orchids may be exciting, but it is also challenging.
Growing orchids can be a lot of fun and provide the grower with beautiful flowers. The mainstay of orchid growing is patience and consistency. Without both, these plants will not flower and will be damaged. The patience of the grower is well rewarded when yet another beautiful flower pops out.