My mother recently cared for orchids and, as a curious person, I was curious about what made them ‘special’. What makes them a plant other than the common houseplants grown at home and why do they seem so challenging to the green fingers?
My mother has always been able to take care of the plants, indoors and out, so it came as no surprise when, after being given her first orchid gift as gift, she was ‘involved’ in the process of caring for herself. ‘I have brown fingers’ not green, so I am full of praise from anyone who can keep houseplants alive for more than one season.
After talking to my mom and my little research here are some tips for caring for an orchid:
Orchids Method 1: Consider its natural features
When buying an orchid, be sure to re-create the conditions that the plant needs in its natural environment. There are all sorts of varieties, some stronger than others so check the label to check.
Orchids How 2: Careful Irrigation
Watering them almost every 4 - 7 days seems sufficient, but it depends on the time of year. To check that the plant needs water, press a wooden stick or pencil in the middle, if it comes out dark, there is enough. Orchids may need different amounts of water at different times of the year, so keep an eye out!
Orchids Method 3: Feeding
Many orchids benefit from a special orchid fertilizer that is fed as a weak remedy and used once a week. To do this, use only a portion of the stated amount in the pocket. The type of fertilizer will depend on where your orchid grows, so it is wise to check that first.
Orchids Method 4: Regeneration.
Sooner or later, unfortunately, the orchid will need to be replanted. Remove the old mixture from the pot, being careful not to damage the roots. Clean the roots and cut out any empty or mushy ones, as they are considered dead. Put the plant in a new pot, orchids like to be tied to the roots, so there should be about 1 ″ between the roots and the edge of the pot. Add the new mixer/medium to the pot, tap the sides to make sure it stays in place. Press gently to loosen the plant but do not use too much force or the roots may break. Use a stick to support the plant in the pot for protection. If your plant grows on sphagnum moss, make sure it is moist before wrapping it in the roots and replanting it, so you do not have to worry about air pockets. After restoring the plant, it should not be watered for 3 - 5 days to allow for stability.
Orchids Method 5: Then the flowers.
Check that your orchid blooms only once from the flower spike or will bloom repeatedly from the same spike. Once the plant has finished flowering the spike needs to be removed from the ground with a sharp tool to minimize damage to the plant itself. If you are unsure, do not cut it!
How Orchids 6: Caring for Them.
An important part of orchid care is the variety of fungi or insects. Separate any problematic plant, diagnose it, find a remedy and begin treatment as soon as possible.
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