Why are orchids so special?
What is special about the flowers? They are mirror symmetrical. Perhaps it is precisely this perfection that makes these plants so appealing. Because orchids are very popular with plant experts in particular and bring a touch of simple elegance to every living room. Orchids symbolize a variety of meanings across different cultures, including elegance, refinement, love, romance, strength, endurance, and luxury. Each color of orchid can also convey specific emotions or messages.One of the rarest colors of orchids is blue. Blue orchids are very popular with collectors and enthusiasts, but they are actually quite rare in nature. In fact, there are no well -known types of orchids that produce real blue flowers.Yes, orchids are considered romantic flowers. They have long been associated with love and romance, dating back to ancient Greece and China. Today, they continue to express love and affection, making them a popular choice for romantic occasions.
What is the lifespan of an orchid?
The lifespan of an orchid will depend on many factors, including the type of orchid, their environment, the proper care provided and watering. If properly cared for, they can bloom twice a year for 15-20 years, and in the case of phalaenopsis orchids, their blooms typically last from two to three months. Place the Orchid in the Pot Gently ease the air roots into their natural growing position. This may include easing some roots through additional holes (as in an orchid pot). Avoid bending or compressing the roots as much as possible. Roots growing up or out should not be forced down into the pot.It takes on average 2 to 3 months from new growth appearing to a fully developed flower spike, ready to bloom. Once a flower spike has started growing, it’s best not to rotate your orchid, as the spike will want to grow towards the light. If shifted, the spike will try to twist back towards the light.Orchids should be repotted when new; every year or two; or when crowded roots push up and out of the pot. Spring: time for a close-up. Other than watering and occasionally fertilizing them, you probably don’t look closely at your orchids all that often when they’re not in bloom.If you notice that your orchid’s roots look overcrowded in its current pot, it’s time to repot your orchid. If you start to see roots growing up and out of the side of the pot or up the stem, this is a sure sign that your orchid has outgrown its current pot.As a general rule, once a week is often good enough, but if the humidity is low where the orchid is located, more frequent watering may be needed. Pick up the pot. If it feels light, it is time to water it.
How do I keep my potted orchid alive?
In general, you should water your orchid once a week or every other week, depending on the humidity where you live. Check the potting medium with your finger. If it is still damp, it is not time to water your orchid. Wait until the medium is dry before providing a little water. You should assess your orchid’s surroundings and check its roots to further gauge the issue. An orchid with root rot will have slimy brown/mushy roots while healthy roots will be plump and green. Very dark green leaves: Your orchid is probably not getting enough light.Avoid overwatering which leads to the demise of many more orchids than underwatering. Constant wetness will cause the roots to rot, which leaves the plant without a means.Your orchid communicates its watering needs through its leaves and roots. Overwatered orchid leaves often turn yellow and may look limp, which is a sign that your plant is stressed. Healthy roots should be firm and green, so if you notice overwatered orchid roots that are mushy or black, root rot may be setting in.Here’s why rice water is so great for your orchid: Promotes Root Health: Rice water is rich in starch and helps promote strong root growth, which is essential for healthy orchids.
Where is the best place to put an orchid?
Most orchids need bright but indirect light, as too much sunlight can scorch the leaves. Keep them on an east- or west-facing windowsill from spring to autumn, but move your orchid to a south-facing windowsill for the winter months, when light levels are lower. Keep your orchid several feet back into rooms with south and west facing windows. This prevents your plant from being hit by direct sunlight but still allows plenty of diffused light to reach your plant.For many orchids, you don’t have to have the ideal quality of light, as long as the quantity of light is strong. However, for optimal results in blooming, you should strive for a spectrum that mimics sunlight’s color.Most orchids do not need direct sunlight although some with high light needs may tolerate direct morning sunlight. Amounts of bright, indirect light are better for most varieties.Natural sunlight is a source of energy for all plants, including orchids; it’s vital for their growth, blooming, and overall health. However, too much or too little sunlight can harm these gorgeous flowering plants.
How often should I water my orchids?
Orchids such as cattleyas and oncidiums, which have pseudobulbs, should be allowed to just dry completely between waterings. Orchids such as phalaenopsis and vandas, which have no water storage organs, should be watered just before dryness occurs. For vandas, this may mean daily watering during the warm summer months. There are two ways to water orchids: submersion and watering from the top. Submersion involves placing the bottom quarter of the plant’s pot in lukewarm water for around an hour. You can add orchid fertiliser to the water, too, which the roots will absorb.Orchid dehydration can manifest in more subtle ways, too — from small leaves to small bloom stems with just a few flowers, or no bloom stems at all! Careful and consistent watering, plus light fertilizer may be enough to revive your plant.While orchids prefer a humid climate, they do not need to be watered frequently. In fact, overwatering can cause your orchid to rot. In general, you should water your orchid once a week or every other week, depending on the humidity where you live. Check the potting medium with your finger.Never let the plant sit in water. Tepid water is preferred, and it is best to water early in the day so the foliage dries by nightfall. Keep in mind that far more orchids are killed from over-watering than being too dry.