Growing orchids

For many years people thought that orchids were 'greenhouse only' plants. Some varieties of orchids are difficult to grow, and therefore meant only for greenhouse culture, but there are many other varieties which if given appropriate conditions and care grow well in a home environment. Quite contrary to popular belief all orchids do not require warm temperatures; in fact many orchids do better with cool temperatures ranging from 60 to 70 degrees in the day and about 55 degrees at night. Since orchids are quite expensive as compared to most of the house plants, one should always make the choice wisely, and according to the conditions which one will be able to provide.

Basic care and requirements of orchids:

Most orchids that are suited for home culture are the ones that grow in nature perched high on the trees, clinging to branches or in the trunk apex of the trees – known as epiphytic jungle plants. They derive nutrition from the air, rain, and any decaying vegetation that the roots contact. For growing these orchids successfully you will need to duplicate the native conditions as much as possible.

1. Humidity: Orchids need a high humidity of at least 50%. Therefore it is almost necessary for the pots to be positioned above a tray filled with pebbles and water but the orchid pots themselves shouldn't set directly on the pebbles because drainage is an essential element too. Misting the orchids can be beneficial too, but this should be done only when there is sufficient light and air circulation so that the orchids can dry before night.

2. Watering: Orchids should be watered approximately once a week when the soil becomes dry, but they must never be allowed to remain wet or soggy for more than one or two days at a time. The best water to use is the one which has been allowed to sit for 24 hours so as to allow the chemicals to dissipate. One should feed orchids with water soluble 'orchid fertilizer' every two weeks during the growing season.

3. Light: The light requirements for orchids vary with the types of plants. About four hours of sunlight is required during the winter months if you want orchids to thrive and bloom. In the absence of natural sun, use of fluorescent 'grow lights' can provide necessary light.

4. Medium of potting: It is recommend using ready made orchid potting mixes which are available at most garden centers or orchid growers themselves. One should use mixes mainly because of the ease and availability. Also it is fairly inexpensive and is blended to the proper texture and acidity. If you want to make your own mix, you can do so by mixing components like osmunda fiber, ground tree fern stem, or ground bark.

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