Orchid Care

Caring for orchids requires some degree of patience and special attention to the needs of this delicate plant. You will likely hear many different things when you announce that you are planning to grow orchids. Don’t let some of the things you hear scare you and make you think twice about orchids, and don’t give up before you even get started.

Caring for orchids does not have to be difficult. It doesn’t have to mean headaches and failure. It doesn’t have to be hard at all if you just start out prepared and armed with some great orchid care advice.

The following are 10 tips that you can use to help with caring for orchids and assist you to grow the most beautiful orchids that will thrive and grow. No-one will know that you are not a professional orchid grower!

1. Learn As Much As Possible

Learn as much as possible. One of the biggest keys to success when caring for orchids is getting to know about them. You should learn about the different varieties and find out as much as possible about the specific variety you will be growing. This will help you to figure out any special needs or care that your orchid will need.

2. Don’t Mist The Petals

Don’t mist the petals. Many people claim misting the petals is something you should do when caring for orchids, but in reality it will shorten the life of the bloom, so don’t do it.

3. Changing Soil

When caring for orchids, get the best growth from changing soil when needed. No matter what type of soil or planting medium you choose, make sure that you change it at the very least every two years or when the roots are showing in the top of the soil. This will encourage growth and plant health.

4. Different Coloured Bottles

Try using different coloured bottles for different sprays you use. By using different coloured bottle, you are less likely to accidentally spray the plant with insecticide instead of water.

5. Watering

Caring for orchids means watering in the morning. Watering in the morning allows heat and air to use the water all day and helps to discourage mould.

6. Bamboo Skewers

Keep tabs on water levels with bamboo skewers. The bamboo will soak up water and allow you to easily know how much moisture is in your plant. Just stick the skewer in the plant and pull it out to check the dampness.

7. Room Temperature

Use room temperature water. Using water that is too cold or hot can shock your plant. In cold weather, leave water sitting out for a while before you water the plants.

8. Pruning

Prune correctly. Make sure to cut at the bottom of leaves instead of at the elbows. This encourages larger blooms.

9. Humidity

Remember humidity. Orchids need high humidity. When caring for orchids you need to keep it at 40 to 70% humidity.

10. Air Flow

Allow the air to flow. You cannot crowd orchids. They need air movement. When you keep them in an area that is too stuffy, you will see unhealthy side effects.

Caring for orchids may not be as simple as caring for other types of plants, but it is well worth it. Those beautiful stunning blooms are the reward for all you tender loving care.