Orchid plant care advice

If you ever want to send flowers that will wow the socks of any lucky recipient, then orchids are the way to go. They may look like extremely delicate flowers, but of all the different types of fresh cut flowers, orchids may last longer than any other flower. Ultimately, it’s the sheer beauty and hardy nature of these flowers that justifies the higher price a florist might charge. In addition to their appeal as cut flowers, an orchid plant can make an amazing gift and will obviously last even longer than any cut flower. These plants also typically fetch a very fair price compared to other floral arrangements.

Different types

When choosing to buy any potted plant, knowing and understanding the needs of that particular plant is essential. Each orchid plant has its own set of preferences in terms of care and the type of conditions it will thrive in. Orchids are certainly no exception, and if you’re gifting them, you should also include a few care tips to help the recipient keep the plant happy. It’s also important to remember that there are different types of orchids and they require slightly different care from each other. Not all orchids can be treated exactly the same. Ask your florist, nurseryman, or do your research online for more precise care instructions.

Water needs

As you may already know, orchids are considered tropical plants. Many people assume that tropical plants require a lot of water when, in reality, they only need to be watered every 5-12 days. The amount of water needed also depends on the weather conditions and the internal temperature. Obviously, warmer conditions will require more frequent watering, while cooler conditions mean you can water your orchid plant less frequently.

Humidity

You may also know that the tropical regions where orchids tend to flourish are quite humid. To recreate this kind of humid environment in your home, you can place your orchid in a moist tray. You also need to make sure there is enough air movement in the room. If humidity levels are high but the air isn’t moving, the orchid plant may start to rot.

Nutritional boost

As for fertilizers, you should only use special formulas for orchids. Each package of fertilizer should include clear, easy-to-follow instructions. You should always follow these instructions to the letter and you can fertilize once a month. Adding fertilizer will help your orchid plant grow and produce impressive flowers. However, if you fertilize too often, it can cause root burns, so be careful.

Careful of pests

Orchids are vulnerable to a number of pests, including slugs, slugs, aphids and mealybugs. It’s always a good idea to consult a professional about the best types of pest repellents to use.

With most plants, you can judge their health by looking at their leaves. With orchids, roots are a better indicator. Experts suggest planting your orchid in a small pot large enough to accommodate the root system. Clear pots are ideal for monitoring root growth and health. You should also wait until absolutely necessary before transplanting your orchid into a slightly larger pot.