Caring For Orchids

Caring for orchids provides you with a unique decoration that beautifies your home. You may purchase an orchid for yourself or someone might give you one as a gift. Orchids have become popular presents because they add a personalized touch to their environment. And since they are relatively low maintenance plants, the giver is not guilted by putting extra work on the gift’s recipient. You can also take a new shoot off of someone’s existing orchid and repot it for yourself. The three most important needs for an orchid are water, light and fertilizer. Each type of orchid has different preferences on these three levels. You’ll want to know which type of orchid you have to ensure that you are caring for it correctly.

Another factor to be mindful of as a new orchid owner is pests. There are several types of pests that often plague orchids. Some, such as snails and slugs, hide in the potting media and only come out at night. You will see signs of their nightly party when your orchid has holes in the leaves and the stems have been chewed. Other pests will focus their energy on chewing up the blooms and flowers of your orchid. Brown or black spots are also a signal that your orchid has been the victim of a pest. If you notice a white foamy substance on the leaves and stems, it’s time to shop for pesticides. Most of these pests can be eliminated with pesticides. Be sure that you get a formula specifically for whichever pest problem you have. If the infestation is too large, consider repotting the orchid to rid the plant of pests.

Water your orchid according to the schedule designed for its species. Orchids usually need water every five to twelve days, so they don’t require frequent attention. If your orchid is not looking good, it may be because you have not been watering it properly. Do a little research to find care instructions for your orchid. This is even more important with fertilizer. Using too much can kill your orchid. Not enough fertilizer is also bad, but it can be corrected. If it isn’t, your orchid will fail to grow or produce many blooms. Aim for a fertilizer containing potassium, nitrogen and phosphorous that is designed for orchids. Avoid using a general fertilizer as it will not meet your orchid’s needs. Lastly, place your orchid in a window where it will receive the right amount of sunlight. If it isn’t getting enough, transfer it to a brighter window. If the light is too intense, consider putting up a sheer curtain to filter. Or relocate the plant further from the window. The correct instructions will allow you to be caring for orchids for years to come.

By: Alan Stables

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Alan Stables is a keen gardener, and one of his specialities is caring for orchids. Given optimum environment conditions depending on the various orchid types , the correct orchid food and the correct amount of sunlight and water, you too will be able to grow beautiful orchids in no time.