Orchid Care

While orchids are typically perceived as fragile and delicate plants whose care leads to gardening drama for most hobbyists, the reputation honed by these beautiful blossoms is partly untrue. While orchids do have specific care and maintenance requirements, the plants are surprisingly hardy and easily survive a newcomer’s initial errors.

Maintaining blooming, vibrant orchids is the primary challenge for new orchid growers. With a little practice and the right environment, however, the skills necessary to maintain an orchid’s health are simple to learn, from plant nature and requirements to tips for overcoming common mistakes in growing orchids.

Basic Orchid Care

Wild counterparts to the domestic orchid are seen growing among craggy rock openings and mossy tangles. Much like their ancestors, most orchids are not planted in soil; instead, they grow in porous surfaces like fir bark, or clay granules. Coarse mixtures are used for thick-rooted varieties, fine mixtures for more delicate roots.

Watering orchids is a sparse and spare experience, with a once-a-week watering or whenever the “light” feel of the pot indicates that the previous water has drained away (orchids prefer pots with plenty of side drainage and a largely dry root bed except for hot seasons). Orchids with visible pseudobulbs (or natural water tanks), indicate thirsty status with vertical creases.

Misting orchids with a light, daily water spritz helps encourage their native tropical humidity (fifty to sixty percent); make sure the orchid receives plenty of light, since most orchids prefer either moderate to strong exposure. Heat is an issue for many orchids, so growers are encouraged to screen windows which offer direct sunlight heat that could damage plants.

Troubleshooting Tips for Orchid Care

While hardy orchids may survive a new grower’s touch, thriving is an altogether different matter. For inexperienced growers who are concerned that their plant has grown droopy, overcrowded, or remains bloomless despite attention and care, there are steps that will help correct these issues.

For bloomless orchids, a nutrient-based feed is essential for restoring the plant’s flowering capabilities. A regular dose of water-soluble fertilizer for orchids will help, usually a bark-based nitrogen mixture; use it monthly in the fall and winter or bi-monthly during the spring and summer. Keeping the orchid free from heat and cold exposure is also important for blooms.

Trailing roots and sprawling plants are a sign that the orchid has outgrown its pot. Growers should transfer it to a new, larger container with room for roots to hang down; blackened, spongy, or damaged roots should be cut away when the orchid is removed. Surround the upright plant with new potting soil until an inch from the top, tamped gently down around the plant.

Choosing Orchid Varieties

Cattleya orchids, typically used for corsages, are one of the most popular choices for orchid growers. Available in purple, pink, or white, these large-blossoming orchids prefer bright light for up to six hours a day, minimal shade, and bi-monthly feedings with nitrogin-rich fertilizer deluded by half.

A more sensitive variety sporting delicate, pansy-shaped blossoms, Phalaenopsis or moth orchids are a beautiful choice. Shield from direct sunlight and western exposures (artificial light is best for young plants) and from direct exposure to cold temperatures and drafts. Avoid watering near the stem; emphasize fertilizer use during the spring, summer, and fall blooming period.

A truly outlandish choice for growers is Paphiopedilum or Lady Slipper orchids in vibrant colors, preferring semi-shade, warm temperatures, weekly feedings, and twice monthly fertilizer year-round. Whatever the final orchid choice for new growers, however, the result will be a richly rewarding hobby as their orchid thrives and becomes the first step in a potential collection or lifelong hobby.

Resources:

Van Hazinga, Cynthia. “Orchids Anyone Can Grow”. Family Circle, November 20, 2001.