If you are thinking about choosing a gift for Mother’s Day, consider orchids. Their delicate, colorful flowers can charm anyone, and there are many varieties of plants to choose from.
In nature, orchids occur in tropical forests and such conditions must be provided for them. They belong to epiphytes, i.e. plants that grow on trees. They obtain water from the air using their external roots. Hence the unique requirements of orchids:
- Suitable light: Orchids grow best in bright, diffused light. However, they should not be exposed to direct sunlight, which may cause burns to the leaves. An eastern or western windowsill will be the perfect place.
- Temperature: The optimal temperature for orchids is 18-24°C during the day and 15-18°C at night. The temperature difference between day and night can promote flowering.
- Humidity: Orchids prefer air humidity of 50-70%. In dry rooms, it is worth using air humidifiers or placing pots on a stand with water and pebbles (the pot should not touch the water).
- Subsoil: Orchids require a special substrate consisting of bark, peat and sometimes the addition of charcoal. Ordinary garden soil is unsuitable for them.
- Pot: an orchid pot should be oblong and transparent, because the roots of the flowers should have access to light. It should have drainage holes and be adapted to the size of the root ball. Orchids do not like too large pots.
To properly care for orchids, first of all, they must be provided with appropriate conditions. But that’s not all, orchids are worth devoting more time to.
It is best to water orchids once a week by immersing the pot in a bowl of water for 10-15 minutes.. After this time, excess water should be thoroughly drained. It is important to avoid too much water as it can cause the roots to rot. In nature, the roots of these plants never stand in water, they get it from the very humid tropical air. Orchids prefer soft water, e.g. boiled or rainwater, because tap water may contain too many minerals that are harmful to the plant.
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Orchids do not tolerate excess waterso it is important to ensure adequate water drainage from the pot to avoid root rot. Drafts and sudden changes in temperature are also not good for them. Orchid leaves should be regularly cleaned of dust with a damp cloth, as dirt may hinder photosynthesis. This process provides the plants with energy and should not be disturbed in any way.
Orchids have always fascinated breeders who are constantly working on new crosses of them. There are as many as 30,000 varieties of orchids found in nature. Many of them work perfectly as potted plants, decorating interiors with their exotic appearance. Here are some popular orchid species and their characteristics:
- Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid)
The most common species of orchid found in homes. It is easy to care for and blooms for a long time, usually twice a year. Its flowers resemble butterflies in shape and are available in many colors, from white to purple.
It is an orchid with slender stems and delicate flowers. It requires more light than Phalaenopsis, but with proper care it blooms profusely. There are many varieties of Dendrobium, differing in appearance and needs.
Known as the “queen of orchids” because of its large, fragrant flowers. Cattleya prefers more light and slightly higher temperatures, but rewards with beautiful, colorful flowers.
- Oncidium (Dancing Lady Orchid)
It is characterized by tiny flowers that resemble dancing figures. Oncidium grows well in bright places and is relatively easy to grow.
- Miltonia (Violet orchid)
Miltonia flowers resemble pansies and often have a delicate scent. This species likes cooler temperatures and moderate humidity.
Each of these varieties has its own unique characteristics and requirements, but with a little care each can become a beautiful home decoration.
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During the growth and flowering period in spring and summerorchids should be fertilized every two weeks. It is best to use special fertilizers intended for this plant species. You can give them as a gift on Grandma’s Day with a flower. In autumn and winter, fertilization can be limited to once a month or stop it altogether.
After flowering, it is best to cut the flower shoots above the third node. This stimulates the plant to grow new shoots. Orchids also need a rest period to bloom again. Providing a temperature difference between day and night can significantly speed up this process.
