Fear Less OrchidsBy Judy Alleruzzo, Al's Perennial & Houseplant Buyer
We see you looking at them. Glancing across the houseplant atrium at their elegant and graceful beauty. In the world of tropical blooms there is nothing that matches the Orchid. Yet, it is because of their beauty many people remain distant admirers of orchids; too intimidated to take one home. Surprisingly, orchids can be very easy to grow. In the right setup at home they can actually be extremely low maintenance. No muss, no fuss.
Phalaenopsis [A.K.A. Phals or Moth Orchids] If you have never grown an orchid, the Phalaenopsis is the orchid for you. Phalaenopsis orchids are by far the easiest orchids to grow and their blooms are long lasting, some lasting up to two months. These beautiful orchids have moth shaped flowers that are seen in an array of flower colors and flower sizes. Flowers are pure white, lemon yellow to deep pink and can be 4 inches across. Miniature flowers are a mere two inches across in shades of pink, yellow and purple and also with dots arranged across the face. To keep your Phalaneonpsis looking great, place it in an area with bright light like a southern or eastern facing window. The roots are usually in a bark mixture, and can be watered surprisingly enough, with ice cubes. Studies have shown that by slowly watering an orchid in a six inch pot with three melting ice cubes, you are helping the plant to cool in temperature. This drop in temperature stimulates the Phaleanopsis to initiate flower spikes. Watering with ice cubes works especially well in a home that has a very constant temperature by providing the orchid with the temperature variation it needs to produce flowers. Watering with ice cubes also helps prevent the most common mistake with orchids, overwatering. In nature, orchids are watered frequently in the tropical forests, but dry out between waterings as their roots are usually attached to bark on trees, and are not in soil.
Masdevallia
Cymbidiums [A.K.A. Cymbids]
These orchids are only a few of the many orchids now available in the marketplace. The lure of growing exotic flowers indoors has led to many more orchids being grown in the U.S. and abroad. Al’s is excited to have many orchid varieties available throughout the year in our houseplant department. We also have many helpful Purple People on staff who can answer your orchid questions. The next time you see a beautiful orchid think about how easy it could be to care for. By following a few simple steps orchids can add elegance and style to your home |
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If
you love to water your plants, the Masdevallia is the orchid of your
dreams. These orchids are found in the upper reaches of South American
rain forests where they are kept moist by the fog and the mist. These
unique orchid flowers are found in shades of red, yellow, pink and even
stripes. Masdevallias love moisture and need it to bloom. An easy way to
provide humidity for these beautiful orchids in our dry homes is to use a
water filled pebble tray. By placing Masdevallias on a pebble tray, the
plant is receiving water vapor as it evaporates from the tray. Just be
careful that the bottom of the pot is not sitting in the water, the orchid
needs to be just above the water surface. Masdevallias will want lots of
bright, indirect light. 
This orchid is an old favorite, it’s
large, dramatic blooms are often used in corsages. Many Grandmothers in
the 1960’s to the 90’s received a Cymbidium Orchid corsage for
Mother’s Day. They were not widely grown and therefore a very special
flower for a special day. This orchid thrives from neglect. In the summer,
this orchid will love an opportunity to go outside. You will want to place
this orchid in a location where it will get morning sun and afternoon
shade. The hot afternoon sun can be too strong and can burn the orchid.
Remember that when your orchid is outdoors, it will use up more water so
keep an eye on it. The cooler nighttime temperatures of the early fall
will help the orchid to set flower spikes. By Halloween, start to
acclimate the Cymbidium back indoors. Before you bring your orchid back
into your home, wash off the leaves with the garden hose and spray with a
very dilute solution of dish washing liquid. This gets rid of potential
insects that might come inside, too.