Orchid care - information about growing and caring for this flower

Orchids, some of the most delicate flowers, differ from others in that most of them are epiphytes, that is, plants that obtain their food independently, using other plants - usually trees - as a support for their growth. Growing and caring for orchids is therefore different from other flowers. But it's worth all the effort: orchids are among the most spectacular plants, almost indispensable in flower arrangements and in the homes of plant lovers.

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1. Secrets of orchid care in pots

1.1. Caring for epiphytic orchids

1.2. Caring for terrestrial and semi-terrestrial orchids

1. Orchid care in summer
2. Orchid care in winter

1. Secrets of orchid care in pots

If in the jungle orchids grow on tree trunks and branches, in the apartment they can grow very well in pots, but on a substrate consisting of peat, tree bark, coconut fibers, concentrated humus and nutrients. There are more than 30,000 species of this plant of tropical origin and many more hybrid species. But various types of orchids grow all over the globe in nature, even in areas with other types of climate.

And in Romania, several species from this family grow in the wild. The most common are Lady's Slipper, Violet Limodora (Gârbița), Blood of Voinicului (Musucel), Coriophora (Ploșnițoasa), Poroinicul, etc.

Unlike those that grow in their natural environment, the roots of orchids grown in pots must grow in air - otherwise they can rot. Therefore, ordinary soil is not recommended for them. However, it is good to know that there are certain differences between orchid varieties: they can be epiphytic (grow only on tree trunks or branches), terrestrial or semi-terrestrial. Depending on these characteristics, their care may also differ.

1.1. Caring for epiphytic orchids

For example, Phalaenopsis, one of the most common varieties of orchids, is an epiphytic plant that needs a well-drained environment. The roots of this plant develop to support it, but they also contribute to photosynthesis. At the same time, they also absorb water and nutrients from the substrate. It should contain pine bark and it is recommended that the pot be transparent so that the light reaches the roots, which should not be completely covered. The substrate must be loose and not retain too much water.
1.2. Caring for terrestrial and semi-terrestrial orchids

Terrestrial orchids (including Calanthe, Cymbidium and Bletilla) require a denser substrate that, in addition to tree bark, also contains coconut fiber. The proportion of pine bark and coir should be equal. Their roots must be completely covered, in an opaque pot, and the substrate must be moist all the time, but not oversaturated.

For semi-terrestrial orchids, including Paphiopedilum, Selenipedium and Vanda, the same substrate as for terrestrial ones, which is always moist, is just as suitable.

2. Orchid care in summer

In summer, orchids can suffer from so-called "heat stress". Hot temperatures are not good for them, and the maximum heat most of them can tolerate is 34 degrees Celsius. Water the plants 2-3 times a week, preferably in the morning. If they are overwatered, the roots can rot quickly. If you are not sure how much water to put, you can use the indirect watering method: on the saucer on which the pot is located (necessarily with holes in the lower part) put a few pebbles, then about 1-2 cm of water. After the water has been absorbed, it waits another two days before adding it again. The plant will draw as much water as it needs from there. It is recommended to fertilize once every two weeks. The plant must have light, but it is not good to be exposed directly to the sun's rays, which can burn it. The humidity in the air should be between 55 and 75%.

3. Orchid care in winter

In winter, orchids are fertilized less often: only once a month. Light and watering conditions are the same as in summer. Conversely, a temperature below 16 degrees Celsius can kill the plant. Temperatures lower than 20 degrees can prevent the emergence of saplings or destroy the existing ones. With good care, you will always have fresh flowers in your home, which you can even give to your loved ones on special occasions , so that you can show them how much you value them.

So, if you take into account all these tips, nothing prevents you from growing in your own home not just one, but several orchids, even of several types. It is important to know their type and the specific needs of each species.

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