Orchids are amazing plants that many people have only dreamed of buying recently. Now these flowers have become more affordable, but when buying them, you need to remember that each of the orchid species should have its own approach.
Phalaenopsis – capable of re-blooming
Phalaenopsis is considered the most unpretentious of all orchids grown in indoor floriculture.
Advantages. This genus of orchids is one of the most numerous among those that are actively grown at home. There are over 70 natural Phalaenopsis species and many hybrids. All of them are so different that sometimes it is not even believed that some varieties are “relatives” among themselves. But such a large choice allows you to choose exactly the flower that will fit harmoniously into the interior and will delight the eye with unusual blooms.
Phalaenopsis can bloom for 2-3 months, as the plant forms new flowers on old flower stalks. In addition, the orchid produces flower arrows throughout the year. Phalaenopsis bribes by the fact that it suits the temperature at home. The plant feels great at 64,4-78,8°F (with a decrease in temperature by 41°F at night).
Disadvantages. Most problems with Phalaenopsis come down to one reason: lack of sunlight, which this exotic flower needs all year round. In the orchid’s native land, the light intensity does not change with the changing seasons. Therefore, when growing Phalaenopsis at home, you should try to create similar conditions. As a rule, the flower requires a 12-hour day of light.
Dendrobium – does not need stimulation of flowering
Advantages. Dendrobium blooms very beautifully, if properly cared for at home, producing many flower stalks studded with flowers. The orchid blooms in late spring and early summer, sometimes in winter. Flowers of the plant are small, on average reaching 4-7 cm in diameter. The hybrid species are best suited for beginners – they are less in need of any measures to stimulate flowering.
Disadvantages. This orchid likes high air humidity – not less than 60%. Therefore, the Dendrobium needs to be watered and sprayed often, especially during shoot growth and flowering. The orchid should be sprayed every day, making sure that no water droplets are trapped in the leaf axils (where the flower buds develop). In winter, instead of spraying, the Dendrobium can be placed on wet gravel.
Oncidium – forgive lack of watering
Advantages. Oncidium species that have the largest pseudobulbs can do without water for a long time. However, this feature should not be abused. The rule of watering the Oncidium is very simple: if you want blooms – water in time.
Disadvantages. Compared to many other orchids, the Oncidium does not boast such a wide variety of colors. As a rule, the flowers of the orchid are yellow with brown or red spots. Another drawback is that the Oncidium does not always bloom regularly at home.
Among the most common problems are its susceptibility to gray rot, as well as frequent attacks by aphids.
Cattleya – subtle fragrance, unique flower shape
Advantages. The ornamentality of bright large flowers and a subtle fragrance is enjoyed by lovers of exotic plants. A big plus is the variety of new hybrid varieties, among which you can find both small bushes for home and large orchids for offices and greenhouses. Flowers stand for a long time in a cut.
Disadvantages. Among the disadvantages are the difficulty of keeping natural species of Cattleya. Hybrids are more unpretentious, but are prone to rotting diseases if not watered properly. In order for the Cattleya to bloom, certain conditions must be met:
- a Cattleya needs direct sun to bloom. Without direct sun, you can unsuccessfully wait years for the Cattleya to bloom.
- proper watering and fertilization of the Cattleya. In summer, it is necessary to water the Cattleya often (as the substrate dries) and abundantly – it is better to immerse the pot in warm (about 73,4°F) water for about 5-10 minutes.
- the daily temperature variation of keeping a Cattleya (at least 44,6°F during the growth period (i.e., summer).
- correct maintenance of the cattleya during the dormancy period. The most important task is elementarily to prevent the orchids from starting a new growth, because in the absence of sunlight in winter such growth is undesirable.
In our orchid shop Viva Orchids in Boca Raton you can buy orchids for every taste. They can decorate and transform your interior. You can also purchase this plant as a gift. When buying, we will tell you in detail about the care of the orchid arrangement that you have chosen so that this unique plant will delight you with its beauty for a very long time.