An Overview on Caring For Orchids

Orchids are among the most highly prized of ornamental plants for their elegance and exceptional beauty. Many of us have notions that caring for orchids is laborious, hard to manage and really only for the elite few who have the right know-how. However, with thousands of species that have been successfully hybridized and variegated, you can now discover the joy of growing orchids as there are some that will suit your ability and way of living.

Caring for orchids for the majority of the species is just the same like caring for any other house or garden plant. But there are a orchids that require specific treatment. This is why it is very important that you identify the specific needs of your orchid to enable it to bring forth marvelous flowers and to keep it healthy. Of the species that will do quite well in a home environment the most appealing to many is the Phaleanopsis. It is a white or purple orchid, also known as Moth orchid. It requires less effort to maintain and is definitely excellent for indoor use compared to other orchid plants.

Orchids, given the appropriate conditions and care will reach a prime flowering stage that can and very often will last for at least three months. It is best to put the orchid on the eastern side of your home near the window where it can catch soft sunlight the entire day. But be extra careful to keep it away from direct strong sun as it can ruin the plants and shrivel the flowers. During winter, you can use a fluorescent light as temporary surrogate daylight.

Orchids do well in temperatures between 55º to 80º F (+/- 13º C - 27º C). Sudden extreme temperature changes or temperatures that go over 90 degrees (32C) can damage their delicate buds and prevent them from flourishing to any extent. It is a prerequisite to preserve the moisture of the plants by providing them with adequate water. However, be watchful not to soak or over-water the roots because if that happens it will definitely spoil the flower and it can cause rot to set in.

A piece of advice for maintaining the vitality of orchid plants is to use fertilizers once a month before orchids bloom. Be careful of two things; First, do it only once a month more will be harmful to the plants and Second, use orchid soluble fertilizer with less nitrogen because too much nitrogen will augment leaf growth to the expense of flowers. Furthermore, don't forget to prune the orchids while they are blooming thus increasing flowering span.

With the right amount of care and attention, these outstanding orchid plants will exhibit full and rich blooms throughout the blooming season for your pleasure and enjoyment.

Grace is an expert on caring for orchids. Visit her at www.groworchidsguide.com to learn more interesting facts about orchids and how to care for them in your own home.