Tips To Optimum Orchid Gardening

Orchids are quickly becoming one of the main house plants. Orchids are not hard to grow when done with the right conditions. All you basically need is the right light, some fertilizer and the proper amount of water. Orchids come in many different types including hybrids and varying conditions, some cooler and some humid with temperatures between 75-85 F.

Phalaenopsis orchids will do very well in an office or home setting and are very easy to grow. Depending on the type of orchid you are growing, their blooms very with the amount of time they will last. Blooms of the phalaenopsis orchids will last 2 to 3 months where blooms of the Cattleyas orchids will only last a month. There are other types that will bloom continuously and there are some that only bloom once a year.

Fragrance is another reason for popularity. There are some types that have a strong fragrance and there are some that are very mild or subtle. The fragrance can range from familiar like citrus or flowery to tasty like chocolate or coconut.

Using pots that provide good drainage, you can also use bark or New Zealand sphagnum moss. Avoid potting soil altogether because it will stop the air from getting to the roots stops the drainage of water. If you are using bark, plan on watering about once every 7-10 days. If you are using moss, plan on watering less often. A typical rule to follow is if it is hot like summer weather, water more often and if it is cooler, water less.

Place your orchids in or near an east window. Orchids like lots of light but not strong. Many orchids grow in a tropical habitat with a mixture of sun and shade. Fertilize to a routine of about every second week. Be sure to water your orchids before applying fertilizer. Doing this will assure the absorbsion of nutrients.