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Education:
Easy Orchids for Home Cultivation |
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 Orchids
have a reputation for being difficult to grow, but this is not always
the case. Many orchids will thrive in a home greenhouse or on a
windowsill. Cultural requirements vary from orchid to orchid. As
a result, it is important to research your particular variety so
that you can meet the needs. Some general guidelines to follow:
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| Root Media: |
The root media must allow for air and water
to pass through. Do not use soil for orchids. Try: Peat Moss,
Sphagnum Moss, Perlite, or Fir Bark Chips. |
| Humidity: |
Not all orchids require high humidity though most orchids
benefit from a more humid environment than a dry one. Check
the variety to determine the optimal environment for it. Try
placing orchid pots in a tray filled with gravel and water.
The water will evaporate around the plants and create a more
humid environment. Caution: do not group plants too closely
together. Proper air circulation is a must. |
| Temperature: |
Optimal temperature varies tremendously between different
orchids. Generally, there are three categories: cool, intermediate,
and warm.
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Day Temp |
Night Temp |
| Cool: |
60-70ºF |
50-55ºF |
| Intermediate: |
65-75ºF |
55-65ºF |
| Warm: |
75-80ºF |
65-70ºF |
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| Light: |
Here too, there are three categories: high, medium, or low
light orchids. The majority fall into the medium light range.
This can be achieved inside, outside, or with natural or artificial
light. |
| Water: |
Always use water that's at room temperature (or slightly
above) when watering your orchids. Never let the plants sit
in a puddle of water for any length of time. Water evenly
when the media is dry to the touch or the pot is light when
picked up. Use fertilizer that is specifically formulated
for orchids; make sure that it is applied in low concentrations
or else it may burn the roots or leaves. |
| Pests & Diseases: |
Every disease or pest problem should be treated with materials
specific to that condition. The most common pests are those
that affect other houseplants including: aphids, mites, scale,
and mealy bugs.
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It is possible to have orchids blooming year round
in your home. The following is a list of orchid genera that are
labeled as "easy to grow." Keep in mind, however, that
not every species within a genera may fall into that category.
Make sure to research your variety carefully so that you can achieve
maximum success.
Cattleya
Paphiopedilum
Laelia
Phalaenopsis
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