How to Grow Orchids at Home

Orchids are stunning plants with vibrant, multicoloured blossoms. It is estimated that there are more than 1,300 species of orchids found in India, primarily in Northeast Assam, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, and South India. Orchids are not like traditional potted plants. They are epiphytes, which means that they grow by hanging on to the bark of trees.

Challenges of Planting and Caring for Orchids

Planting and caring for orchids can be difficult since they are so different from most other houseplants. But sometimes, just when you’re about to give up, they amaze you by displaying their true beauty—in various shapes, sizes, colours, and fragrances. Yes, with a little knowledge and some patience, you will be able to see the blossoms bloom. Growing orchids can become addictive. However, knowing the genus of your orchid will help you to properly care for it.

Common Orchid Varieties and Their Care

Hybrid Orchids

Most orchids sold in nurseries are hybrids designed primarily for flowering. They are simple to care for at home and work well for beginners.

Steps to Plant Your Orchid

Choose the Right Pot Size

Choose a pot with proper size. A “snug” fit is ideal; the container should only comfortably hold the roots. Don’t put your plant in a large pot so it may grow; it will “sulk” and deprive you of flowers.

Select the Right Orchid Mix

Orchids thrive in a high-quality orchid mix composed of coir fibre and perlite. The mixture must hold the roots securely and contain enough water to keep them wet while allowing excess to drain freely.

Proper Bulb Placement

Make sure the bulb is sitting on top of the mix, with only the roots covered; otherwise, it will rot.

Pot with Adequate Drainage

Choose an orchid pot with many small drainage holes in the bottom. It may appear that the water is leaving the container at a faster rate than the roots can absorb.

Proper Light and Humidity

To keep the orchid happy, provide it with plenty of sunlight, high humidity, and water once a week.

Best Environment for Growing Orchids

Cool Climate Orchids

A cool climate orchid thrives outside in the shade of a spreading tree or in a shade house, where it is protected from the hot sun during the summer. Pots can be moved to a more sunny location throughout the winter, but they must be protected from chilly winds. Your orchid requires good ambient light all year; it will not flower if kept in deep shade.

Repotting Orchids

When to Repot

Orchids benefit from repotting every 1-3 years. The potting mix will degrade with time, preventing it from physically supporting the plant and supplying nutrients. Furthermore, healthy, vigorously growing orchids will develop meaty new roots and outgrow their containers.

Choosing the Best Orchid Mix

Ideal Orchid Mix

The best orchid mixes include specific media that encourage efficient drainage and airflow. It is vital to know that orchids do not thrive in dirt; it smothers their roots and kills the plant. Orchids require specialized media to grow. The ideal media for an orchid is one that is appropriate for the orchid’s type and growing conditions.

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