More on Orchids
Today orchids have found a place to accentuate every occasion. Different species of orchids exist with few being hybrids and others natural. With proper care and adequate amount of water, light, fertilizer and air, one can cultivate orchids. While some varieties of orchids thrive in cooler temperatures, others grow healthy even in temperatures that rise to around 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Of all the varieties, the easiest types to cultivate are the Phalaenopsis orchid plant. One can grow the Phalaenopsis species of orchids at home or office. Each species of these flowers have varying lifespan, with some lasting for a longer time frame than the others. The Phalaenopsis, for example, is noted to last to two to three months from the time the bud opens to the last spray of the bloom. On the other hand, a Cattleyas orchid plant lasts up to a month from the time the bud opens. Again, the orchids differ in the number of times they bloom. Some orchids flower on a regular basis while the others flower only once a year.
Orchids also vary in their fragrance. Some species of orchids have a pleasant fragrance that lures one to it. The fragrance imparted can vary from being subtle to extremely strong. The scent that radiates from these exotic flowers also differs between the species. The orchids are found to have the beautiful fragrances of chocolate, raspberry, and coconut, lilac and citrus.
Orchids are grown in conditions that are different from the normal plants. They are cultivated on the bark rather than potting soil. This is on account of the fact that soils cut off the air circulation to the roots and can block the drainage of water, leading to its death. Some orchids grow well when planted on the New Zealand sphagnum moss. One has to be careful while growing these plants in pots as it has to enjoy the presence of a good drainage. The owner has to take measures to ensure that the orchids get watered only once or twice a week, except in summers when they may have to be watered every four to five days. If the temperature soars beyond the normal limit, one has to water the orchids more frequently. At the same time, the orchids potted in the New Zealand sphagnum moss need to be watered at longer intervals ranging from seven to ten days than those planted on the bark as it can retain water.
Orchids do not require a lot of light under usual circumstances. Too much of the sun can turn the leaves to yellow. In tropical weather, orchids are used to both the shade and the sun. Growing them in an east facing window can be ideal. When the plants are exposed to more sun, the leaves typically turn yellow, informing you about the need to increase the shade to make it healthier. Yellowing of orchid leaves can also symbolize insufficient feeding. So take pains to fertilize them on a regular basis about every other week. Water the plant before applying the diluted solution for healthier and blooming orchids.
