|
||
What is the best orchid for the home?The simple answer: Phalaenopsis. Many homes have insufficient light levels for the reflowering of most orchids. However, there are a few orchids that prefer lower light and will reflower under home light conditions. Home light means light provided by a slightly shaded south window, or an east or west window. One of the most widely available orchids of the mass market types...
Do they need to be fed while they are in flower? What should I be feeding my orchids?The simple answer: Yes, if anything, flowering plants need extra feed. Your plants will need to be fertilized with a product appropriate to the media in which they are grown. In general, plants in a bark-based mix will need a fertilizer high in nitrogen (usually in a 3-1-1 ratio), while a balanced food will do for all others (usually a 1-1-1 ratio). If in doubt, feed with ...
Where do I cut the flower spike when it is finished?The simple answer: In most cases, cut at the base of the spike with a sharp, clean tool. Of all of the more commonly available orchids, only phalaenopsis -- the moth orchid -- will rebloom from its old spike. When most orchids have finished blooming, the spike should be cut off with a sharp and clean blade as close to the base of the spike as is practical. Phalaenopsis wil...
What is the best potting material?The simple answer: Whatever your vendor or source recommends and stocks is best. Orchids, in general, will grow satisfactorily in many different potting mixes if watering and fertilizing are adjusted appropriately. That is, if the basic requirements for moisture, root aeration and support are accommodated, the most readily available media in your particular area is probabl...
Where can I get a wider variety of plants?The simple answer: At an orchid nursery. Orchids are available today in many garden centers and home supply centers that, even as recently as five years ago, would never have stocked such "exotic" items. However, they will not have the wide range of types available from the traditional orchid nurseries. When you are ready to have a broader range of types, you will want to ...
My orchid's leaves are wrinkled and leathery ... Why?The simple answer: Lack of water or dehydration. The next step is to determine why the plant is not getting sufficient water. First, look to the roots. If the roots appear healthy, white or green and plump, and medium is in good shape, suspect underwatering, especially if the roots are white and the pot is very light. If, on the other hand, the roots are in poor condition,...
Can I grow orchids out-of-doors?The simple answer: Yes, in some areas ... Especially if you live in a frost-free or nearly frost-free area, there are a wide variety of orchids that will grow very happily with light shade out-of-doors year round. Where winters are cold, orchids can be grown on the patio or under trees in the warmer months when frost does not threaten. This if often a wonderful solution fo...
|
|
a guide for FAQ from the american orchid society - Orchid Fo...