Orchids are some of the most beautiful flowers in the world. They are sometimes considered exotic and difficult to grow, but with a little knowledge they can actually be easy to care for. With these tips, you can ensure that your orchids will look great and rebloom yearly.
Image courtesy of Costa Farms
The first step in growing orchids successfully is to start with a strong, healthy plant. The key is to make sure that the leaves are firm and green, the blossoms are not damaged, and there are a few unopened buds. When you get your plant home, there are four (4) important factors that will keep your orchid blooming for a long time. They are:
Direct sunlight is not an orchid?s best friend. It can cause sunburn and ugly black splotches on the leaves. A good rule of thumb for orchids is that the larger the leaf, the less light it needs. Place your orchid in an east- or shaded west-facing window, keeping it about three feet from the glass.
Orchids are tropical plants that need to have a warm environment to thrive. To provide an ideal environment for your orchid, place it in a room where the temperature stays between 65° and 80°F. If you keep your orchid in a warm spot, you may need to water it more often. Never place an orchid near a heat or air-conditioning vent, as it will dry out too quickly.
It?s important to water your orchid regularly, but without overwatering. The best way is to remove your orchid from the pot, place it in the sink, and run the faucet gently over the roots for about two minutes. If your tap water contains chemicals such as chlorine, use filtered or purified water. Water your orchid early in the day to allow time for it to dry properly.
Orchids flower best and are at their healthiest when fed on a regular basis with a plant food such as Miracle-Gro Water Soluble Orchid Food. Follow the mixing and feeding directions on the product label, applying the plant food mixture only to the soil and roots - not the foliage.
