Orchids come from the family of monocots which are characterized by simple leaves and parallel veins. Currently, there are more than 30,000 known species of orchids all over the world from 880 genera but only a handful can be recognized.
Most orchids are difficult to grow mainly because of prevailing weather conditions. They are endemic to the tropical regions of Asia, South America and Africa. This means they require lots and lots of sunlight in order to be at their best when in full bloom.
Their ability to adapt to different environmental conditions, however, makes the orchid one of the most successful flowering plant in terms of propagation. Today, thousands of hybrids have made their way to many home gardens thanks to modern breeding methods.
One needs to learn a few things about orchids if these are to be part of the general garden landscape. But the most important aspect of this flower’s nature deals with its natural habitat.
This helps any would-be orchid grower recreate an environment conducive for this flower to grow and bloom. There has to be a right amount of sunlight and moisture in the area where the orchid is to be planted in order to take benefit from its natural aesthetics and wonder.
Orchids that come from tropical places are accustomed to a very humid atmosphere. These require less exposure to sunlight or a garden location where the light is not too intense. There are warm-climate orchids that need steady source of
In order to successfully breed orchids at home, it is best to understand their growth habits and the nature of their native habitats. Growth habits or patterns take into account how the stems and leaves are arranged when the orchids grow.
Orchids are placed under two distinct categories of growth habits: monopodial and sympodial. The stem of a monopodial orchid are vertically with leaves that are arranged opposite one another along it. Popular varieties under this category are the phalaenopsis and vandas. These orchids have stems that can grow several meters in length.
On the other hand, sympodial orchids grow horizontally and much shorter than monopodials. Their rhizomes continue to sprout new buds after reaching a certain growth length. They have bulb-like shoots that store water which is vital to the plants survival during prolonged dry spells. Good examples of sympodials are cattleya and dendrobium.
It is nearly impossible to breed all the orchid species even in their natural habitat let alone a home garden. But never fear because there are a few that survive general home conditions and even bloom when placed indoors.
Just always remember the orchid variety and what it basically needs in order to produce those beautiful flowers. This will minimize any frustration over the inability of the plant to grow flowers despite exercising the proper care.
The Cattleya is probably the most popular and easier orchid flower to grow. It can survive droughts because of its bulb-like feature and can adapt to weather changes. Alternating wet and dry seasons will not affect this variety’s ability to flower especially in an atmosphere with average humidity of 40 to 80 degrees.
Just place it on a coarse fir bark and it will grow with minimum attention. It can be placed in an area that receives a good amount of sunlight.
Phalaenopsis is another variety that beginners can try their hands on. Unlike the Cattleya, this one cannot tolerate dry spells. It should grow under a condition where it gets ample moisture and bright lights. A medium fir bark is just the right base for this orchid.
The Paphiopedilum variety should be planted on a mixture of bark or fluffy moss. This condition will enable it to retain a lot of moisture which it needs to grow. It can not tolerate humid temperatures of more than 60 degrees but requires exposure to bright light.
While orchids generally enjoy basking under the golden sun, these can also be grown indoors where they can add a more natural feel to the whole interior. But the basic elements still have to be there. These include a mist base and a good size tray or pot.
Place the orchids near a windowsill where they can get direct sunlight. Windows located on the south and west sides of the house are better for a growing a wide variety of orchids. Keep a spray bottle near the orchids for the moisture supply.
Many people are not sure how to grow orchids, and they believe that orchids are both expensive and difficult to
cultivate. While it's true that this is the case with some varieties,
there are many others that are well within the average budget and no
more difficult than any other flowering plant to cultivate.
Orchids are an extremely popular flower. With up to 35,000 species
available, they actually comprise the largest family of flowering
plants on earth. One seventh of all plants are orchids.
The range within the orchid family is quite staggering.
Never seeing the light of day, 2wo varieties of orchid actually flower
completely underground. Some are purely aquatic. Some varieties can be
found in the Arctic. Most live in the tropics. There is also a wide
variance in the size of the different species. The flower of the
smallest variety is just 2 millimeters ( .08 inches) while the giant
orchid has a flower that can measure up to 38 centimeters ( 15 inches).
The popularity of the orchid is no doubt partly due to the wide variety
available. Take the colors available for example. According to your
preference you can get your orchids in red, orange, yellow, green,
purple, brown and even a rare type of blue. Orchids are also wonderful
mimics. Species resemble various objects that we are familiar with,
including a lady's slipper, butterflies, kites and even birds in
flight. So, how about beautifying your own environment with a display
of orchids?
Stats on How to Grow Orchids