Orchids: Planting, Growing and Maintaining

Before anyone attempts to take on this task it must be noted that the orchid is not an easy plant. It demands, and deserves, time, attention and care. Orchids are delicate plants that need patience from their growers. There are also different factors involved when it comes to looking after an indoor or outdoor orchid. In nature an orchid can only grow once it has found a particular funghus that nourishes itself and the plant. Without this the seeds will not begin to grow as they will not have the nutrients that are needed to survive. To aid you in choosing an orchid click on the following link. It gives a description of temperatures that match with various plants: http://www.orchids-plus-more.com/frequently-asked-questions.html. Depending on the temperature of your home you will have to choose between various types. However, do not fear, it is not as much of a task as it seems. Generally orchids grow well in average temperatures, though they do not take well to being overheated. Orchids are not generally grown by their owners as they are difficult plants and need constant care. Most orchids are bought young or full grown as houseplants.

Indoor plants

Indoor orchids are generally sold in pots filled with materials such as bark. There are certain things you must be aware of in your home. Orchids need high levels of humidity in order to survive, some orchids need up to 70% humidity. Orchids cannot cope with direct, harsh sunlight. In colder months when there is little sunshine the plant may be placed in direct light for a short amount in time. Summer brings unwanted heat for the plants which enjoy to grow in the shade, so be wary of where you place the orchid. If you are dedicated to the survival of your orchid then certainly put the time in to look up your specific flower and the traits that come with the type. Some flowers need only be watered once a day or every two days as their roots need time to try. Make sure your orchid is always moist with water, as their aerial roots will dry out quickly and the plant will die. This does not mean you should give the plant large amounts of water often, simply make sure the roots have a near-constant supply of water. Growing orchids are in need of fertilizer once a month, without it the leaves will shrivel in size and turn the green leaves will begin to fade to yellow. Slow-growing orchids do not need fertilizer to aid them.

Outdoor plants

Placing outdoor orchids is most definitely tricky. More often than not orchids will need to be taken indoors when winter comes as the lowest most plants can cope with is 13 degrees Celsius. Make sure you have a large balance of shade and sunlight. The suggested time to plant orchids is during the beginning and middle of the month of May. Orchids that live outside need to be carefully monitored for any change in leaf colour. Plants that have become overexposed to sunlight tend to have discoloration in their leaves, if this happens you must move the plant indoors to recover. Outdoor orchids can be watered every day as long as they are not allowed to dry out. Many indoor orchids are sold with a stake in order to keep the plant upright, in outdoor planting it is essential that the orchids have a stake. Outdoor orchids need to be fertilized more often than indoor orchids, up to every two weeks.

Watering your Orchid

Always be aware of root rot. Overwatering a plant or water retention inside it's container will cause the roots to decompose and kill the plant. Never water when the soil or fibrous material in the plant is extremely damp and always make sure water is not being collected in the bottom of your chosen pot. Watering your orchid in the morning can be far better for it as throughout the day sunlight will cause water to evaporate and prevent root rot. Many people don't realize this but don't use softened water on your orchid, it tends to destroy their roots. You may simply used either distilled water or tap water that has been left to sit at room temperature. The best thing you could do is to look up your type of plant and the watering habits you should adapt. Some plants can go without being watered for more than a week during winter.

Making sure your Orchid has Light

Orchids need a lot of sunlight during the day but indirectly. With too much intense sunlight an orchid may shrivel and die and with not enough sunlight there is the same consequence. If you are a dedicated grower you could also use some kind of artificial lighting on your orchid. An artificial light will give the orchid all of the nutrients it needs from the sun, even if your house is particularly shady and dark.

Humidity and Air Circulation

Some orchid growers recommend using a fan in your home to keep air circulated and ventilated so that your orchid has a constant supply of fresh air. Another factor to consider when buying an orchid is that they often need humidity to strive. If you live in a humid area then you've already got this set up for you, otherwise you may have to take some steps to care for your orchid if you notice it wilting or losing flowers. A simple way to correct this problem is by placing your orchid over a tray of water, but not inside the water. Leaving your orchid inside of the water could cause permanent damage to your orchid, such as root rot. There are many available products online that are specially made to create humidity for plants.

Orchids are beautiful plants. Though they may often be tough to grow there is definitely  a satisfaction about growing such a beautiful and fragile flower. For any new grower, remember tot take your time learning about your specific species so that you know the correct measures that need to be taken. This doesn't neccessarily mean that growing an orchid needs to be a passion or you need to become overly involved in taking care of it. It simply means that you have to have the appreciation to look after your orchid and provide for it's needs as you would for any person or animal.