Orchids are just like any other houseplants, and they need light, water, air and fertilizers. Orchids are easy to grow, and they continue to bloom for many years. These are exquisite flowers that have amazing effect on people, and are favorites as holiday gifts. Due to modernized efficiency of the flower industry, it has become possible to enjoy the beauty of orchids all over the world and throughout the year.
In addition to horticulturists, there are many people who have passion for flowers, and like to gather information about various types of flowers and plants. As per records, there are almost 25,000 species of orchids, excluding the hybrid versions.
Orchids can be grown indoors as well as outdoors. To grow orchids at home, it is helpful to gain some knowledge regarding various species and their needs, so that few common problems can be prevented. Keeping orchids healthy is not difficult, but you need right information and this information can be easily gathered from the books, or from the Internet.
Light and water are the two top items that are required for healthy orchids. Most orchids are air plants, and they need water periodically, approximately once a week. Put the plant in the sink and let water flow from 20-30 seconds. To decide if its time to water, stick your finger approximately an inch into the soil, and it should feel spongy, and not dry. For some orchids like Epidendrum and Paphiopedilum, watering must be done twice a week. You may need a humidity tray if humidity level in your home is low. This tray is a simple plastic or metal tray filled with water and pebbles.
As a general guideline for orchid care, medium light is ideal for most in-house plants. The plant should get around four hours of sun everyday. Phals do well in the indirect bright light, whereas Cattleya can grow in direct light, and also do well in sunlit area for up to six hours. For most orchids, normal house temperature is ideal, and low night temperatures do not impede their growth. To grow Epiphytes, place it on high stand or shelf so that it can flourish near to its natural habitat as this species come from trees and they gain their nutrients from air.
Good quality soil is extremely important for orchids, but confined environments deteriorate the soil. It is hence important to maintain the quality of soil by regularly applying fertilizers.
Taking care of orchids is little difficult, but they add tremendous beauty to any environment when in full bloom. The sight of blossoming orchids will make you forget all the efforts and will give you the feeling of fulfillment.
