Orchid Information, key things you should know about orchids!

Orchid Information

Orchids have quickly become one of the most popular flowering house plants. This article will explain some of the types of orchid information you should know. There is a wide variety of orchids found in their native habitats and an even greater number of hybrid plants. Orchids can be simple to grow if you begin with the right orchid information.

The requirements for a happy orchid plant are few, the proper amount of water, light, fertilizer and air circulation. Some orchids can thrive in cooler climates while most are at home in temperatures between 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.

The Phalaenopsis orchid is one of the easiest to grow and is one of the most common. It is a species that can easily thrive in the home or office environment. An orchids bloom can last for differing lengths of time depending on the species.

The Phalaenopsis orchid will remain in bloom for two to three months while the Cattleyas orchid bloom may only last up to a month. There are also species that will bloom only once a year, some that bloom several times a year and some that will bloom continuously. The varieties are truly astounding.

Orchids are also popular because of their fragrance, which can be as varied as the species and can be wonderfully fragrant or subtle and soft. The scents have been said to carry such fragrances as chocolate, coconut, citrus, lilac and raspberry to name a few and They range from fruity to flowery. No other flowering plant can provide the range of delight available in orchids.

Orchids are not planted in typical potting soil. Standard potting soil does not provide the air circulation and water drainage that orchids require. There are two types of potting soil appropriate for orchids. Orchids grow best in bark but can also be grown in New Zealand sphagnum moss. Orchids are usually grown in pots that provide good drainage.

Most orchids should be watered once or twice a week except during the summer months. Your indoor conditions, may require your plant to be watered every four or five days. A rough rule of thumb you can follow is more heat equals more water, less heat equals less water. If New Zealand sphagnum moss is used for soil generally less water is required, usually these orchids can be watered only every seven to ten days.

In their natural habitat orchids generally receive a lot of light, however that light tends to not be very strong or direct and is more diffuse in nature, but orchids are used to receiving both sun and shade. Orchids tend to grow well in front of a easterly facing windows.

If orchids receive too much light or sunlight that is too strong they may develop yellowing leaves. Increasing shade on the plant may correct this problem. This could also be a symptom of inadequate nutrition. You should follow a regular schedule of fertilizing your orchids about every other week. Check to see if the potting soil is dry before adding the diluted fertilizer solution and be sure to properly water the plant beforehand.

Armed with the right Orchid Information there is no reason anyone can’t grow amazing Orchids.