Orchids

Orchids are often unfairly labeled as finicky, high maintenance flowering houseplants.  While some of the more exotic and rare varieties may have earned this reputation, there are many species of Orchids that don’t deserve the label. 

In fact, there are several types of Orchids that make great ‘starters’ if you’re looking for an introduction to the wonderful world of Orchids:

·         Phalaenopsis or Moth Orchid.  The Moth Orchid offers blooms in shades of pink, white, yellow and red and is the perfect choice for a houseplant for beginners.  Just give them a bright location with no direct sunlight, and they’re happy.

·         Cymbidium or Boat Orchid.  Popular in floral arrangements and corsages, the Cymbidium is one of the most popular winter and spring blooming orchids and is not hard to please.

·         Dendrobium Hybrids.  Some of the better corsage type orchid with long lasting avender or white flowers. They are prolific and certainly don’t deserve the finicky description.

The key to growing an Orchid successfully is to remember one thing.  Orchids do not grow in soil, but literally in the air. Their roots attach to trees or rocks where their spongy roots capture moisture and nutrients that wash over them.  Many varieties are native to rainforests.  It’s important to purchase Orchids from experienced growers and nurseries so you can properly identify it and care for it.

Light

Orchids prefer medium amounts of light, not direct sun.  If you place an Orchid in the window, your best bet will be an east facing one so they can bask in the morning sun.

Water

Many types of Orchids are native to rainforests, so they love a similar environment and therefore love humidity.  Since the air in the home is dry you’ll need to add humidity, and the easiest way to do this is a pebble tray.  Rather than placing your pot flat on a saucer, fill a small tray with pebbles.  The moisture runoff from watering will settle in the pebbles and evaporate to generate humidity.  It also helps keep the roots of the orchid from setting in too much moisture, which will cause root rot.

An orchid should be watered thoroughly once or twice a week, and should be watered more when it’s warmer, less when it’s cooler.

Potting

Orchids do not belong in regular potting soil since they are used to attaching to trees or rocks.  Pots of bark or moss are best for planting and growing Orchids.  There are specific potting mixes available that offer the best balance of bark and peat moss that will keep your Orchid happy and healthy.

Care and Feeding

The best rule of thumb for fertilizing Orchids is weekly/weakly.  Use a diluted fertilizer on a consistent basis to keep an Orchid healthy.  Most Orchids prefer a balanced Orchid fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20 mix – the numbers refer to the balance of Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Potassium in the fertilizer. 

While some varieties of Orchids have earned their finicky reputation, there are many types of Orchids suitable for those looking for a showy, flowering houseplant.  Starting with an easier to grow variety of Orchid and working your way up is the best course.  When you first see your Orchid bloom, it will be well worth it.