Care of Orchids

  Orchids are very unique and misunderstood plants. Many gardeners try their hands at growing Orchids at some time but many fail. Orchids can be grown if some a few primary requirements are met. Orchid species have different growing needs Dependant on there origin.
Some Orchids originate in more tropical areas than others and their needs can be different.
With a little patience, research and the proper choice of variety most can succeed

Early in the Orchids past they were rare and only found abundantly in their natural living habitats. In modern times people have collected and grown the Orchid and established it as a very admiredspecies. Buyers can pay hundreds of dollars on new or improved hybrids. Orchids are now one of the most popular cut-flowers on the market. Orchid hybridization has been around for many years, but only recently have the new technologies made the production of hybrids more economical. By combining different traits from various species a stronger, healthier and more beautiful plant will develop

 There are several varieties of Orchids available to the gardener; among those are the Cymbidium, Cattleya, Denrobiums, Phalaenopsis and Vanda. These Orchid varieties originate in many locations and have various growing needs and some can be more of a challenge than the others. Cymbidium orchids are one of the oldest cultivated varieties having 40 species and thousands of hybrids. Originally from Asia Cymbidium are one of the easiest orchids to grow and will flower yearly if cared for properly. The Vanda orchid is another Orchid that is rather easy to grow. These plants produce flowers in glowing colors such as blue, red, yellow and orange. Flower spikes can have as much as 10 blooms that last for quite a few weeks.
 
 Orchids are not as difficult to grow as many gardeners believe if they are supplied with the essentials that plants need to thrive. The most important is light, as with any plant Orchids require the proper amount of light to grow and set blooms. Water and humidity is also very critical for Orchids and must be provided consistently too prevent drying especially if a soil less mix is used, Temperature is very important as many Orchids will thrive at room temperature but need cooler nights to  set blooms.

 
Light, water, and fertilizer must be made available for your orchids to thrive and prosper throughout the bloom. Watering is one of the leading mistakes people make when trying to grow Orchids. Providing regular light watering will be sufficient for most orchids, do not over water or let water puddle in the pot to prevent rot and fungal disease. The addition of water soluble fertilizer formulated specially for orchids can be used during the growing season. Provide a ready mixed orchid potting mix and repot every two to three year