The Essentials to Growing Orchids
Are there carefully hidden secrets to successfully growing orchids? Not really. Orchids can be grown in most houses and require about the same time and attention as other houseplants. After selecting a variety of this plant that has been adapted to your particular area, keep in mind these few essentials and soon your family and friends will be complimenting you on your green thumb.
"Must-Haves" For Orchids Maintenance
Like any growing plant, orchids have certain needs that must be provided for them to grow properly. These basics include the right amount of light and water as well as a controlled temperature and humidity level. This isn't very complicated and once your plants are set up in your home, you will find that maintaining these essentials take up only a small percentage of your time. Let's take a closer look at all of these requirements.
The best place for your orchids to grow is on your sunniest windowsill. Make sure that the plants are kept free from drafts and that the window receives sunshine in the mornings and afternoons. A southern exposure is best. If your windows are very large, and therefore the amount of sunlight is intense, place the plants about 20 inches from the windowpane. When orchids are grown in a home, they benefit from the intensity of the sunlight, but also need a period of time in the shade. If you don't have a sunny windowsill, consider using fluorescent lighting. Keep the lights on for at least 12 hours a day to insure proper growth and flowering of the orchids. Choose fluorescent lighting that has been made for plants.
Providing the right amount of water is the most important factor in growing orchids. However, to make sure that your plants get the right amount of water, there are two points to consider. The first is to understand the water needs of your particular species. The second thing to remember is to water only when the potting soil or growing medium is dry. Orchids potted in a bark mix or clay pot need more frequent watering.
Maintaining the correct temperature and humidity level is also important in growing orchids. Placing pots of orchid plants on decorative pebbles in a water-filled tray increases the humidity level to a desirable degree. Misting the plants is a good practice, but do not soak them because bacterial or fungal diseases could develop. For the right temperature, you will need to know the requirement of your particular species. Ordinarily, most orchid species will adapt themselves well to their home environment and will grow nicely.
