Caring For Orchids

There is a commonly held misconception that caring for an orchid is an incredibly difficult process, and one that oftentimes results in a complete failure to get the orchids to thrive. However, with a bit of careful research, even the most novice plant lover will be able to find the perfect orchid to suit their skill level.

Caring for orchids need not be an overly complex or confusing process; simply locate the orchid that fits into your budget and gardening abilities and you will soon have a household full of elegant and thriving orchids.

Understanding Your Orchids Unique Needs

As a general rule of (green) thumb, the majority of orchids should not require much more attention than your average houseplant. If you have a thriving African violet in your home then you are certain to have an environment that is suitable for an orchid to thrive in as these types of plants generally enjoy a similar living environment.

When you purchase your orchid you should be sure to make note of any accompanying materials that offer advice on caring for orchids like yours; while most orchids thrive in a similar environment, some do have unique needs that will require a little more care.

Basic Care Guidelines

If you are not certain of the type of orchid that you have, or if yours is one of the many commonly found orchids available from home and garden retailers, then the following basic guidelines about caring for orchids will help to set you on the right path to success with your orchids.

• Watering Your Orchids.
  One of the many misconceptions about orchids is that they do not require watering in order to survive; while you may not need to offer much water to your orchids if you live in a high humidity area, it is vital that you ensure that the roots of your orchids are never allowed to dry out.

  On the flip-side of this rule, you should also ensure that your orchids are never left sitting in excessive amounts of water. The container that your orchids are in should have adequate holes for drainage to ensure that your orchids only retain the water that they require in order to survive.

  It can be a tricky process to try and find the perfect watering balance for your orchids; but with a bit of practise and experimentation you will be able to find success.

  Consider running a cool mist humidifier near your orchids a few times a month to provide them with the extra moisture that they may require!

• Your Orchid Containers.
  With the large variety available in orchids, there are several methods of potting that work for each type of orchid. It is important to follow any methods of potting suggested for your specific orchid; however, if you are uncertain about your orchid, then there are several methods that should work for most.
  Consider an attractive orchid pot with aerating holes on the side of it and an attached saucer to catch any watering runoffs.

  There are many commercial orchid potting mixes that contain various mixtures of tree bark, coconut husks and moss; these mixes will allow for a steady level of moisture retention and aeration of your orchid’s roots.

• Let The Sun Shine.
  In caring for orchids of all types, adequate sun is a vital part of ensuring that your orchids thrive under your care. Your orchids should be placed in an area that receives several hours of sunlight; consider placing your orchids in an area that receives a solid amount of indirect sunlight so that you can avoid potentially burning the orchid leaves if they receive too much direct harsh sunlight.

With the correct care and attention, your orchids should provide you with elegant and vibrant flowers for as long as three months!