How To Grow Orchids

While you may already have a certain flower that attracts you, orchids offer a variety that appeals to anyone. For more than one hundred years since it’s introduction to Victorian society, orchids have become one of the most exquisite choices in flowers available.

The orchid flower comes in four main varieties or groups. The first is the epiphyte. This variety clings to trees in a vine form as it grows. The lithophytes are popular for growing on or rocks or in rock gardens. The saprophytes grow best in “leaf litter” – decomposing leaves. Terrestrials grow most commonly in sand, but there are other varieties of this plant available. These four groups offer a wide variety on the amount of distinct plants.

There are over 20,000 known native orchid species, which means there are probably many more not yet discovered. But that’s nothing compared to the over 100,000 hybrids that have been artificially created by clever cultivators. The past 100 years has been very busy for some.

Orchids often have the reputation for being difficult to grow, but this can be misleading. Some orchids do indeed require tender loving care. But many are very hardy. Some orchids prefer the high heat and humidity traditionally associated with this family of plants. But others will do just fine in cooler, dryer conditions. The range of light, temperature and growing conditions is another reflection of the variety of natural conditions in which they’re found.

The orchid flower has roots in all the continents (except Antarctica), from Africa to South America. Many varieties of the orchard flower actually grow as indigenous wildflowers. The large number of orchids found in Hawaii has earned it the nickname “Orchid Island”.

They do require some care, of course. Like any living thing, they are subject to a number of pests and diseases. Spider mites, aphids and snails are common problems. Fungi and bacteria, along with several viruses, are known to attack orchids. But prevention and cure is not too difficult.

Techniques range from simple brushing or washing off the flowers and leaves to mild anti-bacterial compounds. Fungi can be treated by drying, anti-fungicides and other methods. Sometimes simple isolation is enough to prevent spreading and the plant will cure itself with a little pruning and proper watering and potting.

Caring for your orchid may be the easy part -sometimes the hardest part of orchard flower ownership is picking the perfect flower. The tremendous amount of choices in colors and shapes, and browsing through the orchid catalogs can overwhelm the senses. Don’t give up on finding the perfect flower for your garden.

No matter your taste, decorating desires or level of gardening expertise, there is an orchid just right for you. But one thing is very simple, indeed. Getting one that looks gorgeous in your home or greenhouse is the easiest thing in the world.

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