Orchids
Nature's Jewels
You Can Grow Orchids
by Lisa King
If you can grow houseplants, you can grow orchids. Even if you don't grow houseplants, you can still grow orchids. Due to the fragile appearance of this winter flowering plant, many people fear orchids and think they are difficult to grow indoors. Do not be afraid any longer. There are many varieties of orchids that are well suited for the growing conditions your windosill will provide.
Orchids orchids belong to a large plant family offering all different shapes, forms, colors, and growth habits. Some orchids produce blossoms as small as mosquitoes while others have flowers as big as dinner plants. Like any other houseplant, an orchid needs water, fertilizer, light, humidity, and good air circulation. The basic growing reqirements will vary depending on the varieity of orchid you select. Just like most indoor houseplants, orchids do not like to be kept too wet. Do not allow them to stand in water for any length of time. Depending on their root system, some varieties like to dry out in between waterings. Orchids require several hours of sun (or flourescent lights) and prefer some humidity. Excellent results can be obtained at windows with varieties of Cattleya (corsage orchids), Phaphiopedilum (ladyslipper), Oncidium (butterfly), and Phalaenopsis (moth orchids) as well as many others. These orchids are easy to maintain while they are in bud and bloom. They flower from early winter to late spring and blooms can remain on the plants for weeks at a time.
Allow orchid plants to live outdoors in partial shade during the summer months. Don't forget to keep them watered while they are vacationing outside. Toward the end of summer, move them into a sunnier spot and water less often. The cool autumn nights will force flower spike initiation for many varieties. Bring plants indoors when nighttime temps dip into the 50's. Provide humidity indoors by placing potted orchids on pebbles in water-filled trays in an east, south, or west window.
