The Basics of Orchid Care, It's Easier Than You Think!

 

Caring for orchids does not have to be difficult.  Many people think that orchid care is too difficult or tricky and stray away from these unique and beautiful flowers.  The truth is with the basics of orchid care anyone can be a professional in no time. 

When you are caring for orchids the fundamental consideration should be on their location.  If you are caring for orchids that are primarily indoors than you have to contend with the dry air that results from air conditioning and heat.  Still, you can achieve blooming plants with proper orchid care.  You need to situate your orchids in an area that offers bright light but not direct sunlight.  If this is an impossibility in your home you may want to purchase a fluorescent light to use.  This will help to mimic ideal indoor conditions. 

Caring for Orchids Indoors

Taking care of orchids indoors can also mean adjusting the inside temperature of your home.  The best temperature when caring for orchids is above 60 degrees Fahrenheit at all times.  While it would be fine to take your plant outside during the warmth of the day you would need to take care of your orchid by bringing in it at night when it becomes cool.

Caring for orchids takes more than just finding a location that is bright and warm.  Proper orchid care also requires humidity and moisture.  This can be achieved easily by placing your orchid pots on bins that contain around a half inch of water and gravel.  This is a great orchid growing tip to optimize humidity around your orchids. 

Having orchids in your home does not mean you can’t turn on a fan or open a window.  In fact in many instances the air circulation will do your plant well.  Placing a small fan near your orchids is another growing tip that will help you care for your orchids. 

If you are just starting out there are certain kinds of orchids that will be easier for you to grow.  If you are caring for orchids that are in a windowsill garden, then Moth Orchids are undoubtedly ideal for you.  If your orchid care is up to snuff and you are diligently caring for your orchid this flower will gift you with beautiful blooms up to twice a year. 

Other kinds of orchids that are great to grow indoors are Lady Slippers.  Taking care of orchids indoors, especially with species like these will allow you to enjoy the blooms for up to three months at a time.  Caring for orchids is much easier when you are able to reap the rewards for this long during the course of a year.  Lady Slippers  have unique hair, strangely beautiful warts and exotic colors that will have you wanting to learn everything you can about caring for your orchids. 

Caring for Orchids in the Greenhouse

Orchids are definitely able to adapt to changing atmospheres.  One great orchid growing tip to ensure success is that orchids need to experience a 15 degree temperature change between day and night time temperatures. 

If your orchid care involves allowing them to grow in the open it is vital that you water them more than others and monitor proper air circulation.  When the weather is hot or when you notice your plant is not developing they should be watered once or twice a week.  Caring for orchids in a greenhouse is a fabulous way to breed beautiful and sturdy flowers. 

Many greenhouses have artificial light sources.  If you are caring for orchids using these lights than it is important to know exactly what kinds of orchids you are growing.  Certain kinds prefer shaded areas and other orchids need brighter lights to do well.  Orchid care can be tricky if you are not familiar with what kind of orchid you are growing.  Keep track of which orchid growing tips work best for your plants.

Caring for Orchids Outdoors

Probably the best environment for looking after orchids is outside in a damp, moist climate.  In this type of environment orchids may even attach themselves to trees and stay mature year round.  If you live in a seasonal climate caring for orchids can mean placing the potted plants outdoors when conditions are conducive to their health and bringing them inside when the climate changes.

Just because you get snow and ice during the winter doesn’t mean you can’t grow orchids.  With proper orchid care you can.  Keeping orchids in these conditions simply means bringing them in when temperatures become unsuitable and finding safe havens for them inside your home. 

Regardless of where you are caring for your orchids, it is essential to learn about proper orchid care and know what kinds of orchids are best for your situations.  Taking care of orchids is fun because it is sometimes challenging but always rewarding when the brilliant and stunning flowers bloom.