5 most common mistakes people make when growing orchid plants
Most people can not grow orchids right and eventually kill them without knowing why. There are five reasons why it happens.
1. Streaming too much water
This is the number one killer of household orchids. If an orchid plant to “soften” too much water, roots begin to rot quickly. Orchids should be planted in a way that water can circulate freely outside the root. They should never be left sitting in water. It will hurt your orchid less if you do not water it enough than if you have too much water. In general, an orchid will not need watering more than twice a week.
2. Planting them in a pot
Orchids grow on trees (for this they are called epiphytes). They do not grow in the ground (with limited exceptions). Therefore, an orchid will appreciate being planted in soil. Orchids grow best when placed in the moss or bark or other substance which simulates the experience of growing as a tree. You can even simply mount an orchid on a piece of wood, and it will flourish! This is because orchids do not absorb nutrients from the tree or medium term, they grow in the air around them. The sole purpose of growing medium (bark or foam) is to help the plant be stable and not fall.
3. Insufficient Light
It is difficult to find the right location for your orchid inside the house. The best type of light for an orchid to grow is in indirect sunlight. This means that the sunlight should be filtered through a window or a curtain (or leaves, as in their natural habitat). Too much direct light “burn” the foliage. But a few rays of sunshine should be in daily contact with the orchid: it must be placed in a bright light but not in too hot home environment area.
4. Don’t forget orchids need wind
Orchids grow on the very top of the trees, in nature. This means they are accustomed to be exposed to a lot of air circulation. Air circulation helps the orchid to remain free of disease, pests and rot. Keep your orchid plant near a window or near a small fan and it is more likely to stay happy and healthy.
5. Beware of dry environment
Orchids absorb much moisture they need from air. This means they must be in very wet conditions to thrive. In nature, orchids usually grow in tropical forests. Humidity between 60% and 90%. Humidity inside a house is usually between 5% and 30%. The use of air conditioners, heaters reduces the moisture in our homes and it is difficult to get to the orchid adequate moisture. You can remedy this by placing the orchid in a bathroom or trays filled with water nearby. As the water evaporates, it provides moisture to the orchids.
Growing orchids can be difficult but very rewarding. Learn more about the conditions and materials needed and you have happy growing!
About the Author
Learn how to take care of orchids and your other house plants and make them thrive at LivingHousePlants.com.
Orchid Selection
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