Once intimidating in nature, orchids are now easy to grow. Even the novice gardener has a chance to create the delicate blossoms of orchids in a variety of colors and styles. In fact, these beautiful flowers can be purchased in a variety of stores including florist shops, garden centers, home improvement stores, and discount stores.

Since orchids are known to bloom more than once throughout the year, they are ideal for those who enjoy the delightful color of flowers throughout their home. Moreover, the delicate blossoms of orchids are capable of lasting more than two months with proper care.

Orchid Selection

When selecting your orchids, there are several facets that you should look for in order to ensure that you are getting an orchid with a hearty lifespan. The first step is to read the label to identify the particular species of orchid. Labels that clearly identify the name of the species as well as the required care for the plant are typically from reputable growers ensuring that your plant had a healthy start.

Orchids that have already begun to show the delicate color of their blossoms are wise choices since this indicates that the plant is healthy. Plus, you will be guaranteed that the coloring is to your liking.

Getting Enough Sunlight

Since orchids prefer filtered sun, it is important to place the orchid where it will be exposed to the sunlight through sheer curtains. This will prevent any accidental burning of its delicate leaves. Additionally, you should attempt to place your orchid in a location that benefits from an eastern, western, or southern exposure.

Although the orchid requires a certain level or amount of sunlight on a daily basis, direct sunlight has the potential to become a harsh visitor. Watch the coloring of your orchid’s leaves for signs of too much or too little sunlight exposure.

Light green leaves indicate a healthy exposure to sunlight while dark green leaves indicate that your orchid is not receiving sufficient exposure to the sun. Leaves that are showing signs of burning or scorching are not only receiving too much sunlight, but they are receiving too much direct sunlight.

The remedy is simple. Select a slightly new location for your orchid. If the leaves are dark green, place the orchid closer to the source of sunlight or place thinner curtains on the window. If the leaves are becoming scorched, put up thicker curtains, move the orchid further away from the source of sunlight, or find an entirely new location.

When to Water

Although an essential ingredient for your orchid’s health, the watering of orchids is a simple process. The soil should be dry to the touch before watering. When you water your plant, allow the water to flow through the entire flowerpot.
Avoid over-watering your orchid since this can lead to fungal or bacterial infections. When the soil is too wet, these types of infections can set in and kill the roots as well as the plant. If possible, occasionally hose off the leaves to reduce bug infestation.

Orchids prefer a potting mix to grow in since this promotes the proper drainage and retention of the water it receives. They do not do well in regular soil. Ideally, you should use some fir bark or sphagnum moss when potting your orchids. Moreover, repotting your orchid every year will help to maintain its good health.

Orchid Fertilizers

Fertilize your orchid approximately every two weeks or so. Be sure that you dilute the fertilizer properly before application since a strong solution can burn the roots of your orchid. Proper fertilization will help your plant to grow.

Outdoor Growing

Ideally, in the warmer months, your orchid should be treated to the benefit of some fresh air. Simply open a few windows in the area. However, as with sunlight, monitor your orchid’s exposure to the air to ensure that it is not receiving a detrimental amount. If the buds of your plant begin to fall off, the air is too cold for it.

Ideally, orchids thrive best when some type of temperature difference exists from the morning to the nighttime hours. This can occur naturally in most cases with the simple rising and setting of the sun as long as your orchid is located near a window.

Once known to be difficult, orchids have journeyed far from the days when they were temperamental to grow. Enjoy their delicate blooms and bright array of colors in your own home with little care or worry.