AboutOrchids

One of the best questions to ask before buying an orchid is “what kind should I buy?”  Many people buy an orchid because they like the flowers, without regard for its care needs. However, different orchids can require different temperature ranges, light levels, and watering schedules. If it’s not the right orchid for the available conditions, the plant suffers. I’ve succumbed to floral temptation even when I know better, so I can’t point fingers, but I can suggest that you plan ahead. If you want to keep your orchid long-term, first figure out what conditions you can provide, and then select a suitable variety. The orchid family is large and diverse, and you can find one for almost any environment.

• For warm temps, try Phals, Paphs, Cattleyas, Dendrobiums, or Oncidiums.
• For cooler temps, look at Cymbidiums, Masdevallias, Miltonias, or Odontoglossums.
• In low light conditions, use Phals, Paphs, or Masdevallias.
• In high light (direct sun for part of the day,) Cattleyas, Cymbidiums, Dendrobiums, Epidendrums, Oncidiums, and Vandas can thrive.
• Cymbidiums, Masdevallias, Miltonias, Paphs, Phals, and Vandas need water frequently.
• Cattleyas, Dendrobiums, Epidendrums, and Oncidiums like to dry out, so they don’t need water as often.
• All orchids need good humidity and air movement.
• If you’re buying an orchid for Mother’s Day, mom will probably want to keep it blooming as long as possible, and maybe even try to make it re-bloom. Think about what growing conditions she can provide in her home or office. If your mom is online, you can send her to AboutOrchids to learn the basics. And it wouldn’t hurt to buy her a nice orchid book that she can enjoy, no matter how the plant fares.
• Check out my previous posts with orchid buying tips.

Explore posts in the same categories: Buying Tips

This entry was posted on Wednesday, April 28th, 2010 at 8:52 pm and is filed under Buying Tips.

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