Facts and Pictures Of Orchids I

Generally, to grow orchids successfully, you have to try to reproduce the conditions in which the plant is used to in nature, hybrids are more adaptable than their parents, and will tolorate conditions which are to some degree either side of those best suited to their parents.



Most orchids need shade from direct sunlight, and good air movement. Shading of at least 60% will be needed during the Spring and Summer, possibly even into Autumn if the weather is clear and warm and of course all year round in the tropics. Too much light results in sunburned leaves or at least yellow (or dark red) and skinny foliage, not enough light and the result is dark green foliage and no flowers.


When watering, try always to use rainwater or that produced by a reverse osmosis system unless you are very sure about the quality of your towns water supply, having remembered to use the potting mix which suits your availability as well as the need of the plant, you should water when the plant has almost dried out, and the mix is just slightly damp, this means inside the pot, not on the surface, so if in doubt use a wooden stick to test for moisture, stick it into the mix, and if there is water present, and the stick has darkened considerably, then perhaps the time to water has not arrived.


Orchids are notoriously week feeders, and a solution of one quarter to half strength fertiliser is all most plants will need, a balanced 30/20/20 is best for plants potted in a bark mix, as the bark will neutralise the nitrogen, and a well balanced 20/20/20 mix for most others.


A good tip for cultivation in the home, stand the pot on an upturned saucer, which either rests on a gravel filled tray, or on another larger saucer, and maintain a little water in the latter, this will make the air around the plant more bouyant and help with culture.


History of Orchids

More information about Orchids