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The Most Common Types Of Orchids To Buy
Although there are an estimated 25,000 different species of orchids and more than 100,000 hybridised varieties, there are really only 3 distinct types of orchids; These being, Terrestrials, Epiphytes and Lithophytes. The terminology used depicts the type of root system; Terrestrial orchids possess an underground root system, the same as any other type of common plant. The Epiphytic orchids possess an aerial root system which they use to attach themselves to trees or poles. The Epiphyte is not parasitic however, in that it does not nourish itself from the host but rather, gains nourishment from the decomposing organic matter that collects on the branches and trunk of the tree. The Lithophytes are generally recognised as a type of Epiphyte; the only difference is that they use their powerful root system to anchor themselves to stones and rocks. Lithophytes are highly specialised plants and difficult to cultivate and certainly not for the novice; so for the sake of simplicity, in this article we shall concentrate on the other two types of orchid. Epiphyte orchids are the most commonly grown houseplants and two of the most popular are the Cymbidium and the Dendrobium. Their popularity is due to the fact that they are fairly hardy plants easy to grow and produce the most beautiful colourful blooms; but always bear in mind that these types of plants originate from tropical rainforests and need to be grown in a hot, brightly lit, humid environment. This is not a major obstacle, as it is fairly easy to create an artificial high humidity environment around your plant, within your own home. These plants prefer bright light, but never place them directly in the sun or their leaves will burn. They can be grown in pots or baskets, preferably shallow ones, using a free-draining compost of bark fibre and charcoal. Terrestrial orchids will grow quite successfully both within your home and in your garden within a shaded area, there are many species of Terrestrials and they are naturally found everywhere from the tropics to more temperate climates, so it is very easy to find a species or hybrid that is most suitable for growing in your local environment; but you always need to be wary of pests such as, slugs and snails. Many species of Terrestrials are difficult to acquire and therefore, are not as common as their Epiphytic cousins. A very popular Terrestrial species that are very easy to cultivate are the: Thelymitra crinite, more commonly known as the Blue Lady or Lily Orchid. This is a very beautiful orchid cultivated in many different climates and regions; it can grow up to 70cm high and produce more than a dozen brilliant blue flowers on each stem. Another easy to grow plant that is very hardy and can survive extremes of temperature is the Bletilla formosana more commonly known as the Taiwan Ground Orchid; it originates from Taiwan, China and Japan and grows naturally in areas up to 9500 feet above sea level. The flower spikes grow up to 24 inches tall and each produces between 1-6 pale pink flowers. Orchids have a reputation for being temperamental and difficult to grow. When cultivating orchids it is necessary to fully understand the type of orchids to buy and the environmental conditions that are most suitable. If you take these factors into account you will most certainly have no problems with your plants and will continually produce healthy, thriving orchids with the most prolific and beautiful blooms season after season. Article Directory: http://www.articledashboard.com Hi, my name is Steve, if you would like to learn more about the types of orchids to buy. Visit my website at www.orchidgrowth.com for helpful tips and information on buying, propagating, cultivating and caring for healthy thriving orchids. |
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