Cattleya Orchid Problems

Cattleya orchids suffer from some of the same problems as phalaenopsis orchids but the symptoms are usually a little different. Cattleyas also have some problems that don't bother phalaenopsis so much.

Cattleya's do get bacterial leaf rot. However, it will look like a soft black spot which will spread very fast. You have to be fast to stop it in Cattleyas. You will need to remove all of the diseased leaves or parts of leaves quickly to halt the progress of the disease.

First you need to cut back the diseased area until only healthy green leaf is left. You will need to remove all of the diseased leaves or parts of leaves quickly to halt the progress of the disease. Sprinkle the edge of the leaves where they're cut with some cinnamon which is a natural bacteriacide.

Cattleya's also get bacterial root rot. Like the phalaenopsis, you need to unpot the plant and check the roots. Cut away all the dark, mushy roots and sprinkle some cinnamon on the cuts. Make sure you get everything that looks unhealthy. Then repot the orchid and hope for the best.

A problem that seems more common in Cattleyas is called Bud Blast (in sheath). This seems to happen when you move a plant from one growing area to another and there's a sudden change in light or temperature. Water condenses inside the flower sheath which causes the buds to rot in the sheath before they ever emerge.

Sometimes Bud Blast occurs in buds that have already emerged from the flower sheath. This usually occurs when the plant has been allowed to dry out too much or something happens that causes the development of the buds to be disrupted. Eventually they just fall off.

While we're on sheaths there's a condition in Cattleyas called "blind sheath." That's when a sheath appears but there are no buds in it. Maybe there wasn't enough light for the buds to develop or maybe the plant just isn't ready to bloom yet. It probably will eventually.

There are, of course, all the problems associated with over or under-watering, too much or too little fertilizer, not enough air circulation, too big or too small a pot, etc. Following the general rules of growing most orchids will prevent many of the problems before they ever become problems. Just remember to know your cattleya by doing some reading and research.

David E. Carlson is a longtime gardening & orchid enthusiast. For more information about solving orchid problems visit Orchid-Flower-Care.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4492479

6 Ways To Fix Common Orchid Problems

Generally orchids, that are grown indoors, are not affected by most of the plant related pests and diseases. However, there are various conditions which may impact on the health of the home-grown orchid and which are identifiable from noticeable changes to the appearance of the orchid plant.

The following 6 common orchid problems are both easy to identify and equally easy to deal with and rectify.

Lack of New Growth

The orchid will only show signs of new growth during its growing season, it is normal for an orchid to have a dormant period after its season of growth. Any attempts to 'kick start' growth by additional applications of watering and fertiliser should be resisted as this may be detrimental to the plant's health.

Priority should be given to providing the correct temperatures and lighting conditions which will promote growth in a healthy orchid.

Orchid Does Not Flower

First check that the plant is receiving sufficient light which is critical to the orchid's flower growth.

Alternatively, a newly purchased orchid may not bloom during the following year's flowering season. Once the plant matures it will then produce flowers each year.

Leaves Have Turned Dark or Blue-Green

This condition is a sure sign that the orchid is receiving insufficient light. This is best corrected by gradually moving the plant to brighter daylight conditions over several days to avoid the sudden shock from higher illumination levels.

Alternatively, supplement the natural day light with fluorescent lights placed at a height of 30cm (12 inches) above the orchid.

Leaves Have Become Yellow

Conversely to the last problem, yellow leaves can be a result of the orchid getting excessive lighting levels. In which case increase the amount of shade for the orchid.

Alternatively, the yellowing of leaves can often be caused by a lack of nutrients resulting from insufficient fertiliser. For most indoor orchids apply a soluble orchid fertiliser at two weekly intervals during its growing season.

Finally, it may be the yellowing of old leaves which are being replaced by new leaf growth, in which case there is nothing to be concerned about.

Areas of Black on Leaves

A common cause of black areas on orchid leaves is intense direct sunlight causing sunburn, which can be rectified by providing shaded or filtered sunlight.

An alternative cause which can result in more extensive blackening of the leaf is fungal disease.

The cure for this is to cut away the infected area with a sharp blade, and apply an appropriate fungicide treatment.

Flowers Showing Signs of Wilting

When orchid flowers begin to show signs of wilting, which also may be accompanied by buds dropping off, it could be due to a shock caused by a sudden change in temperature.

It is vital to provide an environment for your orchid in which there is a regular daily temperature range between night-time and day-time without sudden extreme temperature changes.

Black Spots on Flowers

The most frequent cause of black spots on flowers is a specific fungus, known as Botrytris which occurs in conditions of excessive moisture and insufficient air circulation.

To reduce the moisture on the plant, increase the air circulation through the use of an electric fan, along with limiting the amount of watering and misting.

Multiple Orchid Roots Growing Outside the Pot

This phenomenon is usually due to the potting medium decomposing and the orchid needing to be re-potted.

It is recommended that the new potting medium is based on a medium cut bark mix which should reduce the re-potting frequency to two years.

Bacterial and Fungal Diseases

As previously mentioned, the best way to avoid these diseases is give your orchid continual air circulation although this air should be at room temperature.

In addition, any watering or misting of the orchid should be carried out during the morning which will enable any excess moisture to evaporate during the warmth of the day.

Again, these diseases should be appropriately treated. Your local garden centre or orchid supplier will be able to recommend suitable products.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5002551

Demystifying Black Orchids

Black orchids gained the reputation of mysterious flowers. They are mistakenly perceived to possess magical powers as they are often portrayed in witchcraft rituals, especially in movies, books or legends. They are flowers imbued with power, authority and class. Orchid flowers are symbols of absolute authority and great power. Though they are friendly flowers, the unhampered destruction of their natural habitat put them at constant threat of extinction.

As flowers belonging to the Orchidaceae family, the black ones share the origin with other orchids that derived their name 'orchid' from the Greek word "orchis" which means testicle. Thus they are seen as symbols of virility. Though black orchid flowers can be achieved by having white orchids dyed black, as alternative way, the natural ones can be obtained similarly to the other flowers belonging to this species. They can be propagated through areal cuttings, division, keiki, meristem, tissue culture and seeds.

Black colored orchids come in two types, they are the terrestrial ones that grow mostly on the ground, and the epiphytes, those that grow on trees. Some of the most common black orchid flowers are the so-called Black Pam, Dendrobium fuliginosa, Coelogyne pandurata, Dracula roezlii, Oncidium henckenii and the hybridized ones like the Candor Blackheart, Candor Neat and Florafest's Queen. However, the Liparis nervosa is, undisputedly, THE black orchid flower due to its pure deep black hue.

Though used quite often, black orchids never lose their elegance and class. They have a distinguished beauty to show, for anyone to appreciate and be proud of. Consider some of the combinations listed below:

A wedding bouquet with contrasting shades

Whilst many may shy away from the use of black orchids, you should try combining them with other flowers, like white lilies, wrapped with silk ribbons, the assortment makes a beautiful bouquet for a wedding. Such a wedding bouquet can be set up in a round or in a cascading manner. The contrast between black and white is surely attracting the attention of the people around.

Creating extraordinary bouquets out of ordinary materials

As human resourcefulness is an important ingredient to discovery, a hand tied bouquet of black orchids with white feathers or white calla lilies tied up with bows made of silk is a welcoming display. One can easily create extraordinary bouquet using natural black flowers or even black dyed ones.

Eye catching and impressive centerpieces

Centerpieces can be so enticing and alluring when black orchid flowers are blended in with white colored flowers such as white lilies, orchids or roses and even with lavender or pale shades of purple. The result of this combination of different flowers with contrasting colors is really eye-catching and impressive as it is not the usual floral arrangement anyone is encountering.

As sympathy flower to the bereaved kin

Keeping in mind the common association of black orchids to death, a floral arrangement set up in a wreath is effective to convey sympathy to the bereaved family when someone dear has passed away. A bouquet in a cascading manner is also wonderful as black means submission, in full authority and power, to the unseen forces.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/7596805

Orchid Fertilizer - How to Select the Best Orchid Fertilizer

If you're like most orchid lovers, you have good intentions in using orchid fertilizer on your plants. And you surely want the plants to have all the nutrients necessary. Unfortunately many people think using fertilizers are like feeding a child, where if you give them all the nutrients they need, they'll flourish.

With orchids, this is not the case.

Most orchid varieties are happy in a basic medium that is not overdone with nutrients. Unlike other plants, orchids need much less fertilizer and giving them too much is more harmful than not giving them enough.

On the other side, if you give orchids the right amount of fertilizer, at the right time, you will see impressive growth and health plants. The trick is to give your plants nutrients in a weak form.

If the orchid fertilizing product you are using says to apply it once a week, water the substance down by 50 percent. Also, about one time per month, water the orchids without any orchid fertilizer. Skipping this week will help to clean out any built up minerals in the soil and on the root bulb, which can cause damage if left there.

But is this enough?

Most people don't realize one of the best ways to understand orchids is to look at them in their natural environment. In that environment, orchids are continuously searching for nutrients and when they do come, they are in small quantities.

Within the orchid's natural environment, nutrients come in the form of droppings from animals and decomposing natural materials, like leaves. They are available only in small amounts and often it is in running water or moist ground.

Giving your orchids fertilizers in heavy doses is much like giving someone medication at too high of a dose. It does them little good.

So what should you focus on with your orchid fertilizer?

The following is a list of the nutrients orchids need you to supply them:

-- Hydrogen
-- Carbon
-- Calcium
-- Phosphorus
-- Potassium
-- Magnesium
-- Sulfur
-- Oxygen
-- Nitrogen

In addition, micronutrients needed include iron, chlorine, boron, manganese, zinc and copper.

Remember that hydrogen, carbon and oxygen come from the natural surroundings (water and air) and therefore do not need to be in the fertilizer you use.

You also do not have to be concerned with orchid fertilizers having micronutrients, since these are in most natural potting soils (especially when you choose organic versions) and in the water.

As a general common sense rule when buying any type of orchid fertilizer, simply read the label.

What exactly should you buy?

Orchid fertilizers do not need to be specific orchid fertilizing products. The label does not need to read "orchid safe."

Rather, there is little difference between using a standard plant fertilizer and an orchid-based product. Look at the packaging to ensure you have a 20-10-10 mixture, or if you are using other than bark or tree fern, look for a 20-20-20 mixture.

By providing this mixture to your orchids, they will do well on a regular basis. Remember, orchid fertilizer is not something to overfeed...or overthink!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5041281

Orchid Care Instructions - Watering Is An Art When Growing Cymbidium Orchids

With the advances in technology and lighting today, it's much easier to grow cymbidium orchids than it used to be. This is because cymbidium orchids need a good amount of sunlight and the proper temperature. They can receive a good amount of lighting (more so than other types of orchids) and love high humidity levels (like most orchids do).

However, one of the trickiest challenges for cymbidium orchid growers is knowing how much water to give to their cymbidium orchids and when to give it to them.

Here's some great information about cymbidium orchid care, but I want to point out a few things. Most people are determined to give water to their cymbidium orchids in good quantities, and certainly cymbidium orchids need water in order to survive (like virtually all living things). But many people overdo it.

The trick is that you need to keep the medium section of the cymbidium orchids MOIST, but NOT SOGGY. If you water the medium of the plants too much, you could cause your orchids to die.

To figure out if you are giving too much water, not enough water, or just the right amount of water, take your finger and place it about an inch or so into the soil medium. This will help you determine whether the medium is moist or not.

If you think it is, you don't have to give it any more water; however, if you think that it needs more water, then by all means, give it some more to make it moist.

Another mistake that many cymbidium orchid growers make is that they think that should fertilize their orchids while they are blooming. Fertilizers can discourage your orchid's ability to flower correctly if you are not extremely careful.

In fact, the author suggests that you only use a 20-20-20 mixture of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, and only when your plant calls for it. That is definitely good advice, as any other type of fertilizer combination could severely damage or even kill your plant.

Additionally, the author gives good advice when it is mentioned that you should wait another year before giving out more fertilizer - orchids do not need much fertilizer; watering them properly on a regular basis is more vital to their surviving and thriving than fertilizing them regularly.

Remember there is no one orchid care system that would fit all the orchid types. Be extra attentive and take time to learn first about your chosen orchid to achieve success in growing them.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/6705896

Orchid Care Instructions

Successfully caring for orchids is not more challenging than taking care of houseplants, it is just completely different. Orchid plants are actually presented with not a good reputation. The truth is that orchid care is not that challenging at all. It is a fact that despite all their fragile plus exotic presentation, many orchids happen to be tough, robust flowers with a strong ability to survive. What this means is that pretty unskilled growers can keep them alive and also do well in orchids growing.

In order to get orchid plants prosper and bloom, you need to adhere to a couple of guidelines as well as use your own personal commonsense. The most important aspect in orchid care is undoubtedly complete attention to your plants, their appearance and their behavior will indicate if they are thriving. Before buying orchid plants, you might want to think about some species, which do well in the growing environment you can provide. You will be getting much better results by selecting species that are simple to grow for the newbie. You can find some species that is considered easy in orchid care. Some basic caring for orchids rules related to temperature, humidity, light, air flow, and also water apply to all of them.

1. Humidity: You will need a high humidity that is at least 50%. Therefore, it is necessary for the containers to be placed above some tray full of small stones and water, but the pots themselves should never be placed straight inside the water because of the dampness, which is a crucial element in caring for orchids. Misting your orchid plants can be useful too, but do this just there are plenty of light and also air circulations, so they can dry out before nighttime.

2. Water: They need to be watered about once in seven days, if the potting mix becomes dried out. The most beneficial water is definitely the one which has been allowed to sit all day and night, allowing the chemicals to dissipate. A Vitally important factor in caring for orchids is to feed them by using water soluble fertilizer every fourteen days during the thriving months.

3. Light: The particular demand varies with orchid species. Some general caring for orchids light requirements are about nearly four hours of light during the winter time. In the absence of natural sun, using fluorescent lights can assist with needed light.

4. Potting mix: In orchid care is actually advised to use prepared potting mix which you can find at most gardening stores. It is combined to the good consistency and also level of acidity. If you want to make your own mix, you can do that by mixing up elements like sphagnum moss, coconut pieces, coconut fibers, ground tree fern or ground bark.

Sheron is an orchid enthusiast and self proclaimed orchid lover. Check out her website for tips caring for orchids [http://www.orchidplantscare.com/caring-for-orchids/] and advices on orchid potting mix [http://www.orchidplantscare.com/orchid-potting-mix/]. Make sure grab a Free copy of orchids care mini course.

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Caring for Orchids - Guide to Make Perfect Orchid Bloom

Caring for orchids is not a complicated process, despite the firmly held belief that orchids are difficult and complex plant to keep alive in your home.

By taking some time to do a research about the unique needs of your specific orchid; you will realize that you are on your way to having a thriving, happy, and healthy plant. Some of the most basic tips in caring for an orchid to help you achieve a beautiful orchid bloom are listed below.

Keep Watering Your Plant a Balancing Act 
The crucial part of caring for orchids you own is to know exactly the fine balancing act that is needed to make certain that their optimal health and well being is achieved. Water serves as the orchid food. Although a high humidity level is required for the orchid to thrive properly, giving your plant too much water can result to fungal and viral infections as well. Orchids also hate excess water on their leaves. It is true that in their natural habitat, orchids have highly humid environments, and they are also frequently exposed to frequent rain showers; but remember orchids are also exposed to high heat and free flowing steady breeze, which results to high evaporation that keeps excess levels of water to a minimum.

On the other hand, it is also highly possible to underwater your orchids. One rule of the thumb to follow is that between watering, you should never allow the roots of your orchids, and the potting media, to totally dry out. This can be initially difficult and may take a bit of trial and error for you to be able to perfectly master the right timing of watering your orchids.

Temperature Balance - Is it Too Hot or Too Cold? 
Orchids grows best in temperatures that remains above 65 degrees Fahrenheit; if at any instance that the temperature will drop below to 65 degrees Fahrenheit, more often than not, your orchids will drop off its flowers. Or in worst cases where temperatures may drop to much below than 65 degrees Fahrenheit you are at the high risk of losing your orchids. Therefore, a well balanced temperature is very important to keep your orchid thriving. You should know the specific temperature requirements of your specific orchid; To be sure of the exact temperatures your orchid requires, you should talk to an orchid expert and verify your doubts.

Having the Appropriate Containers 
When it comes to successfully caring for an orchid, the type of container form where your plant is potted also plays a very important role in the success of your quest to successfully grow an orchid. Using a pot that is specifically designed for orchid use can be the best choice. These pots must have holes on the sides and underneath to effectively drain excessive water and allow the free flow of air.

Potting Media 
Using a potting soil as a media for your orchid is highly discouraged. Potting soil will more likely hold excess water around the roots of the plant. It can also prevent the roots of your orchids from getting sufficient air to circulate. This can result to a rotten root.

Lighting needs 
Your orchids should receive sufficient amount of sunlight throughout the day. To achieve the lighting requirements, you must put your plant in a window that provides access to sunlight. However you should not place your plant in an area that receives full sunlight because this can burn the leaves of your plant.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4989792

Choosing the Best Orchid Pots

Growing orchids is a delight for most people. They offer incredible beauty but bring a temperament that must be managed to enjoy successful cultivation in a home environment.

There is a diverse range of orchid species to choose from and your choice of pots can be a make or break factor in the lifespan of your orchid. The pot you choose, coupled with the right compost, lighting, temperature, fertilizer and water all combine to deliver some of the most beautiful flowers in the world.

In this article we examine the best containers for growing vibrant orchids in the home. While the choices may appear confusing at first, the two most common containers for orchids are either a plastic or terracotta clay pot.

Let's look at the features and considerations of each type:

Terracotta Pots 

• Typically heavier and harder to move once the plant is established but provides a more stable environment;
• Expect only one primary drainage hole in most clay pots but there are newer clay pots with drainage on the side of the pot as well;
• Orchids that are tolerant of dry conditions and retain water well do very well in clay pots;

Plastic Pots 

• Lightweight plastic pots are great for indoor use;
• Be sure the pot has multiple drainage holes;
• Be aware the potting medium dries out slower than clay pots;
• Most suitable plastic pots have thick walls, are typically a light color and do not retain too much heat in direct sunshine;
• Clear pots are in vogue now because they allow light to reach the orchids roots directly;

As you consider your potting choices, keep in mind the growing characteristics of the orchid you wish to grow. For example large planters or pots are necessary for the large spreading Cymbidia orchids while the Chinese Cymbidium requires a tall pot to handles the very long root system that be up to a meter in length.

When the pot offers root growth that is unrestricted, the orchid can readily hold the needed nutrients and water to develop the type of beautiful flowers orchids are known for.

If you choose to grow Jewel orchids such as Ludisia and Anoectochilus look for pots that are wide and shallow because these orchid types spread out over the surface of the pots. Some people have successfully used glass terrariums for this type of orchid.

Finally, many people may choose hanging baskets for some orchid types so they can be hung and displayed at eye level.

Why baskets? 

• Baskets work very well for orchids that are heavy rooted, have pendant type flowers and have a spreading nature.
• Basket containers can be constructed of wire, plastic, wood or pottery or other mediums that allow good circulation around the roots and plant medium.
• If you select a Draculas orchid, you will need a strong mesh type orchid pot because parts of the plant will grow out all sides of the container.
• Orchids with beautiful pendant flowers such as the Stanhopea, Gongora, and Acineta should be established in open pots or baskets.
• Be aware that orchids tend to dry out faster in baskets.

If you are beginner orchid enthusiast you may notice that your orchid appears to be pot bound and think you need to make a change. Many orchids actually thrive when they are pot-bound. The roots are not really being smothered. In reality, it is this dense root system that creates incredible blooms.

So don't make a move too soon.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/4996615

Orchid Information - Top Five Tips on Growing Healthy Orchids

The key to growing a healthy orchid is in understanding its origins.

Orchids can be found in a wide range of countries and climates ranging from coastal areas to tropical regions but the majority of these conditions have several key factors in common. They often have a warm climate with a small annual temperature variation, high humidity and regular rainfall followed by brief periods of drought. These are all requirements that are relatively easy to recreate in the home or greenhouse.

Coupled with the fact that orchids are extremely beautiful plants has caused their popularity as house plants to rise a lot in recent times.

This can be seen by the literally thousands of hybrid species available, cultivating orchids has become big business in some countries.

Temperature Range

If you're lucky enough to live in a warmer climate (which unfortunately I am not) then you may find that you can grow your orchids outdoors during summer, maybe even the whole year round!

However, for those of us living in more moderate climates it's a good bet you'll have to grow them indoors, either in your house or a greenhouse. There are orchids that will thrive in cooler temperatures but most will prefer a daytime temperature of around 80 degrees Fahrenheit or 27 degrees Celsius.

Remember to allow a drop in night time temperature of around ten degrees as this is what your orchid will expect.

Lighting Needs

Orchids enjoy long periods of sunlight and you can simulate this best in summer by placing yours near an eastern facing window.

Be sure not to allow too much direct sunlight to reach the plant though as even a little can cause harm to your plants by burning the leaves. Tropical orchids would normally be provided shade by the tree canopy or other natural conditions but you can use frosted glass or even a netted curtain to achieve this.

Alternatively, you can invest in specialist lighting for your orchids giving them just the right spectrum of light for them to thrive whilst avoiding the harmful ones in the red end of the spectrum. This will also give you a lot more control over the length of daylight your orchid gets.

Humidity

Tropical regions and coastal regions are obviously fairly high in humidity which is fairly easy to recreate in a greenhouse but is also achievable indoors too. You can buy or make artificial humidity trays for this. Any type of wide based tray will do to start with.

Place some kind of grating inside or fill it with stones to give your orchids something to stand on. It's important that their roots stay clear of the water as this will damage them. Simply keep the tray filled almost to the top with warmish water and as the water evaporates it will increase the humidity in the air around your orchids.

Potting Your Orchids

If you choose to grow your orchid in a pot you should pot it tightly in a potting media that isn't soil or compost. These mediums retain too much moisture for your orchid to handle well, remember how I said they like periods of rainfall followed by very dry periods. Their roots are specially designed to absorb water quickly and then release it to the plant slowly during dry periods. So instead using a potting media like bark or coconut husk, this will allow very good drainage while retaining a tiny amount of moisture.

A good pot will hold the potting media while allowing water to drain quickly and letting air circulate around your orchids roots. Your orchids roots are often a good indicator of how well your orchid is doing and can let you know in advance if there's a problem. Clear plastic containers can give you a good view of the roots while still keeping the potting media tightly compacted.

Feeding Your Orchids - Fertilizer

Just like most ordinary plants your orchids will need feeding every so often, look for specialized orchid fertilizer rather than ordinary plant food. Standard plant fertilizers usually don't contain the correct level of nutrients and trace minerals that your orchid will need to thrive.

With a little time and care you'll be able to get the maximum amount of enjoyment from your orchid with the minimum amount of fuss.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5026369

Orchid Propagation - Top 2 Easy Techniques For Safe Orchid Propagation

Orchids propagation is very important for your orchids since you are growing them as house plants. Your primary concern with orchids grown in pots is that you must be able to propagate new growths safely so that you do not harm the parent plant and the chances of the new plant surviving is high.

There many ways and techniques for orchids propagation but since you are a beginner, let us focus on the two simplest techniques. In time as you become expert in growing orchids, you will have the chance to learn about the other orchid propagation ways.

1. Orchid Propagation By Division Technique

The division technique is the easiest and common way to produce more plant of the same kind. Most orchid growers, novice and experts alike use this technique to reproduce the orchids they already own. The division often encourages the orchids to produce new shoots of better quality and vigor.

To propagate your orchids using the division technique, cut in between the pseudobulbs through the rhizome. Make sure that each part you divide has at least three healthy pseudobulbs and one that is dormant. This dormant pseudobulbs will be responsible for producing the new growths.

Orchids propagation by way of division technique is best done during the early spring when new growths start to appear. You will be happy to see that after one season, your new plants have established themselves ready to give you gorgeous and colorful flowers.

2. Orchid Propagation By Back Bulb Technique

The back bulb technique is yet another very simple propagation method. This technique however may take up to three years for the plant to mature to its flowering size. Back bulbs are the pseudobulbs that previously flowered or the ones that have never flowered before. Remove the back bulbs that have roots and place it in the side of a pot (nearest to the edge of the pot should be the cut surface of the bulb) Fill it with orchid potting mix and set aside. Keep it moist in a shady place for two to three months. When a shoot has appeared from the back bulb, repot the plant.

For more valuable orchids information, please visit Orchid Growing Secrets [http://orchidgrowingsecrets.org//] where you will find great insights and many tips on orchid growing. Be sure to sign up for our Free Orchid Growing Mini-Course at [http://orchidgrowingsecrets.org//].

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/5057149

Top 3 Orchid Care Instructions For Newbies

"Orchids are too delicate, so it must be difficult to grow" - Does it sound familiar? Have you heard that before? Or maybe you are thinking of that right now?

What if I say that growing orchids is not as difficult as you may believe. Orchids are species of plant that can be found on every continent, except in Antarctica. It is true that most of them grow remarkably well in tropical rainforests. This is therefore, the main secret of growing orchids successfully.

My research shows me that many people grow orchids successfully in their backyards in various medium, pots, indoors and outdoors; almost everywhere in the world. Growing delicate orchids is no harder than growing any other household plants; but only if you know how.

And I will tell you how in a minute. For now I will reason with you why I think caring for orchids is just as easy. As I said earlier majority of orchid species are found in tropical rainforest environments, with predictable elements that make them thrive beautifully. Without too much guessing, we could break down the essential substances that make up rainforest environments. For example, the soil is normally made up of dirt, decomposed leaves, branches, and other plant products mixed with rich minerals from rainwater and also animal droppings. Also, the air is normally humid and moist.

This is the secret, and if we could imitate it then we could achieve our goal.

Okay to the top 3 orchid care instructions:

1. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION

What does it mean? No, I didn't mean the best location for you to look at the flower. There is only one reason for this instruction, ie. lighting.

Just a quick lesson on biology, the reason for plants needing enough light is because they are able to produce their own carbohydrate from substances they absorb. In order to do this, plants need light. This process is called photosynthesis. The best light is the sunlight, however, you can substitute it with fluorescent lighting if you grow your orchids indoor.

Whilst all plants require enough amount of light, too much of one thing is bad for them. Too much sunlight, particularly in the summer months, can burn the plant. In the natural habitat, orchids grow in shadier areas. So, watch signs of burning of the leaves, such as reddenning on the edges, as you may want to move it away from the sun. Make it a point not to expose the orchid to direct sunlight.

2. SOIL AIN'T SOIL

Not all types of soil are the same for all plants. Orchids do need specific type of soil to get maximum growth. In their original habitat in rainforests of Southeast Asia, orchid plants extract their food from decomposing organic materials, such as other leaves, petals and barks, droppings from birds, and minerals contained in rainwater. Science has proved that orchids really the following ingredients Potassium, Nitrogen, and Phosphorus.

There are commercially prepared potting mixtures that are specific for orchids with the right substances and degree of acidity. However, you can create your own blend you wish. Coconut fibres are a good base to use, combine it with tree barks, fern leaves, and sphagnum moss. Or my favorite is usually to mix the commercially accessible and my very own potting mixes.

Every now and then, feeding your orchid plant with a bit of orchid fertilizer every time you water is a good idea.

3. MOISTURE, HUMIDITY, AND WATER

Water is so crucial. Never let your orchids dry. However, it is as important not to drown your plant in water. They don't just absorb liquid from their roots, but also from the moisture in the air. Many people think that they can just water it more frequently to compensate for a dryer air.

Again in their natural habitat, orchids live in tropical rainforests with high level of humidity, e.g. greater than 50%. It would be wonderful if you can imitate this environment.

In dryer months, it pays to keep it moist. I often use a home-made trick of keeping them moist by using hand sprayer and mist my orchid vegetation. This enables me to put additional droplets of water on the plant in dryer weather.

When caring for orchids, you ought to also know when's the correct time to water them as well as how frequent the watering ought to be. During wintery months, orchids should be watered only once per week. But in summer months, you only need to water orchids twice every week.

Caring for orchids is not as difficult as some people may believe. For as long as you learn and follow orchid care instructions properly, you can never go wrong. Good luck with your orchidilic endeavor!

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