Herb Gardening

Orchid care can be frustrating to even the most experienced grower of orchids so imagine what it is like for a beginner. It is common for someone to receive an orchid as a gift and this is how their passion begins. With that love however comes a responsibility of orchid care. Information about caring for orchids can be overloading but here are some basics that you need to consider.

Watering – A common mistake is watering too much. You need to ensure that you wait until your orchids are sufficiently dry (but not completely dry) before you water thoroughly. Have a look below the surface of your growing medium to see how dry it is. There is no hard and fast rule of when to water but try to do it no more than weekly unless you are sure it is dry.

Temperature – Most orchids originate from tropical regions so like temperatures in the 60s, 70s and 80s. Whilst there are orchids that can grow in the cold, cold temperatures usually damage the plant and you will see a yellowing of the leaves and they will fall off.

Feeding Orchids – A common question in the orchid care is how to feed orchids. It is easy to find fertilizers in shops but you can also make follow recipies at home. The best time to use orchid feed is in spring. You should not feed your orchid in the months of winter.

Re-potting Orchids – You will need to report when your orchid grows out of the pot and when you need to change the growing medium. Your orchid will encounter new growth but re-pot before this occurs.

Orchid Light Requirements – You need to get enough light to your orchids but the orchid shouldn’t be left in direct sunlight all day. Getting the light right is arguably the most important factor in orchid care. If they don’t get enough then they won’t bloom properly. Think about where you place you orchid in relation to the light, south facing windows generally get more light.

Orchid Humidity Levels – Most people don’t even consider these but they are easier to control than most people think. Use a spray bottle to mist to ensure there is enough moisture in the air.

Orchid Care Problems – The are many types of other problems you may encounter when caring for orchids such as disease and insects. For your orchid to be healthy you must make sure that you clean it on a regular basis.

Caring for orchids is a hugely rewarding experience. Once you start with your first orchid it is likely you will catch the orchid bug! You should be put off, your knowledge of orchid care will grow the more experience you get and it will all become easier for you.