Caring For Orchids
Orchids are the most hardy and enduring plants in the word. They almost can grow steadily in any environment. If there is one fundamental law in orchid care, it is to understand carefully what those environments are and how they affect the particular orchids that grow in them.
Therefore, the first thing you need to know is identifying where your plants come from. Here’s a brief guide. hardy lithophytes make their home on rock and rock surfaces while epiphytes grow and flourish on tree trunks. On the other hand, the myco-heterotrophs are those that lack chlorophyll and feed on nutrients from decaying plant matter. The last category will be terrestrial plants and they are the largest number of today’s household orchid 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.
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. In temperate climates, regular living room temperature is generally okay should you wish to display your prized specimens there.
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. Some hybrids are bred for such specific areas.
Orchid Care Tip 3: If you are a novice orchid grower, try a variety or hybrid that is easy like Phalaenopsis. People like this variant because it can flower all year as compared to others who normally only blossom once a year. In taking care of this variety, remember to always cut the stem after flowering to ensure that it blossoms again or grows a new stem segment.
Orchid Care Tip 4: Fertilizing your orchids is not an issue. 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: As a beginner, you are encouraged to join horticultural societies or get online and participate in orchid related forums and websites. There is nothing more encouraging and fulfilling than sharing your new found passion with others who feel the same way of caring for orchids.
