Caring for Orchids is Simple With These Quick Tips
Caring for orchids does not have to be a mystery. Consider that they grow all over the world. They live in all kinds of environments. At least 35,000 varieties populate the planet, in mountains, grasslands, rainforests, and bogs. The goal to maximize the health of your orchid to try as best you can to replicate the environment that your orchid naturally prefers. Each variety should be individually considered for a perfect fit in the home or garden. In caring for orchids, you should consider lighting and temperature first. Many orchids like cooler or shady areas, with filtered light. These types may get withered and burnt by too much direct sunlight. Some varieties love the sun, and blossom less if placed in cooler areas.
In caring for orchids, it will be beneficial for you to research the individual orchid you have. Differences in water, light, and frequency of fertilizer are important. Your orchid may need a nutrient not commonly found in the potting materials. Generally, potting material for all orchids consists of shredded bark and moss. There are certain types favored over others, depending on the orchid owner. Outdoor orchids attract pollinators by scent, mimicry, and stealth. Some have petal pattern similar to butterflies, or bees. When caring for orchids, you should regularly check your indoor or outdoor plant for lesions, blight, or pests. Sprays to get rid of fungus or pests are available at your garden center.
Caring for Orchids by Type
The Cattleya orchid comes in a wide range of colors, sizes, and forms. It is called the ‘Queen of Orchids’. They are frequently used in floral corsages. They do best with 75-85 degree temperatures in the daytime and 60-65 at night. These plants are Epiphytes by nature, and normally grow on top of trees, so they are used to drying out between rains. Let its soil dry out between waterings. In the morning, allow your Cattleya to have full light, then from 11 am to 3 pm, shade. Late afternoon sun is ok. If the leaves are light green, that is good. Dark green leaves mean the plant has too much sun. In caring for orchids, the Cattleya will not need repotted unless it has outgrown the pot, which is every 2 to 3 years. However, if the soil has deteriorated, or you see snow mold or green mold, you should repot. For Cattleyas, a coarse potting medium grade of fir bark works best.
The Miltonia orchid has familiar shape and markings. They are called ‘pansy orchids’. They contain rich colors and blossom profusely in the spring and fall. They prefer daytime temperatures of 75-80, and nighttime temperatures of 60-65. They like light only about two hours out of the day. A little sun is ok, but never direct. Bright diffused light is necessary to help the plant to bloom. These plants like even, constant moisture, but let them dry out by nighttime with morning watering. These plants are Epiphytes, which means they like a general bark or orchid mix. Repot every two years, or when the mixture shows signs of decaying. In caring for orchids, the Miltonia likes high nitrogen feeding year round. Mix one teaspoon per gallon of water for the mixture.
Again, proper caring for orchids requires replicating the orchids natural home as best you can. The different types do prefer some differences in water and temperature, but even the tag that comes with the orchid can tell you the basics for that orchid type. A little tweaking of light and water and you will easily be growing orchids that make you feel proud.
