6 Tips for Caring for Orchids in Your Home

July 19, 2010 by admin
Filed under Flower Gardening, Gardening Tips

Like any plant, orchids require care and attention to become a strong and healthy plant. Growth and good flowering make these beautiful plants vibrant, where ever you decide to place them. The success with these plants depends on the love and affection you give them.

Caring For Orchids

There are a few things to keep in mind when caring for your orchids:

1. Always water your orchids in the morning:

When watering your orchids, you should ideally be watering them in the morning. If you water in the evening or at night, there is a strong possibility that fungi or bacteria may form. You should water orchids every 5-12 days. Many people make the mistake of watering several times a week, because the orchid is a tropical plant native to rainforests. Doing so WILL kill the roots of your orchids. Observe your plants; check the soil to see how dry it is. Orchids maintain moisture very well, therefore if the soil is still relatively damp; you leave it another day or so before watering.

2. Make sure your orchids are getting the lighting they need:

All plants require light, this is how they feed. Depending on the species you have, depends on the amount of light they will require. If you do not know, you could use Google to find out. Too much light will most likely turn your orchids yellow, or you may see them burn. Not enough light will turn them a dark green. Getting the right balance is essential if you want to see your orchid bloom.

3. Check Your Orchids periodically to detect pests & diseases problems:

Checking your orchids on a regular basis is very important. Try to review the leaves, flowers and stems of your orchids at least once or twice a week. With this simple practice, you could potentially stop any insects that may want to damage your orchids. However, diseases may be a lot harder to identify. There are many types of diseases, which affect your orchid in many ways.

4. Give Your Orchids food. Fertilizer.

In their natural habitat, orchids get their nutrients from whatever happens around them, such as minerals born in rainwater, decomposing leaves and bird or animal droppings. However this will most likely not be the case with your orchid. Your fertilizer should have an NPK rating of 20-20-20. Although nitrogen is the greatest need for orchids, the 20-20-20 should be an all-around good one.

5. Transplant every 12 months.

Transplanting should be done once year, usually in the spring. However, if you see new growth, then transplant accordingly. Some orchids require transplanting every 6-9 months.

6. Give them a small breeze.

Although some orchids hate strong winds around them, they all enjoy a small steady breeze. A breeze that is too strong may potentially damage your orchids and cause them to wither and die. A small fan or ceiling fan should be sufficient.

All in all, orchids are relatively easy to grow given the proper attention. If you’ve grown other houseplants, then you can grow orchids. There are many species and hybrids of orchid, and growing them can be challenging. However, no matter how challenging it may be, it can be very fun and enjoyable.