
Growing Orchids IndoorsThe orchids have always fascinated people since early times. Orchids have been the symbol of love, luxury, and beauty for centuries. The Greeks looked at the orchids as a symbol of virility. Even the Chinese, as long ago as the time of Confucius, called orchids as "The plant of the King's Fragrance. It is often said that when an orchids appear in a dream, they supposedly represent a deep inner need and desire to keep gentleness, delicacy, and romance in ones relationship.There are many orchids that you may be able to grow in and around your home. One of the easiest and most popular orchids to grow indoors are the Phalaenopsis or commonly known as the "Moth Orchid" hybrids as they require average house temperature and moderate light much like the African Violet. The various other commonly grown orchids are the Paphiopedilum (Lady Slipper) which is another low light grower. Even the Cattleya (Catt.) alliance is a very rewarding group and is often used in corsages. The other varieties such as Oncidiums (dancing dolls), Vandas and Dendrobiums, all need bright light to flower. But if you have a cool area always try growing the beautiful "Pansies" the Miltoniopsis hybrids. For the people who live in mild climates, growing Cymbidiums in your gardens is a lot of fun. Various other orchids can be grown in your home if you give them what they actually need. Water While watering always remember not to over water as it kills more orchids than anything else Light Always remember that too much of light will kill your orchid so as too little light. Temperature Orchids are just like people who like to have a comfortable temperature so always maintain a comfortable temperature. Fertilizer In order to fertilize always remember the old saying, "weakly, weekly" when fertilizing orchids. Humidity The perfect humidity for orchids are 40%-70% humidity. Air movement Orchids don't like stagnant air at all but then neither do you. You always grow orchids much like you do any blooming house plant. Always remember that most orchids are epiphytes and are planted in orchid bark, lava rock, or mounted on pieces of bark. Never plant them in soil unless they are the terrestrials. |