Mother’s Day Orchids

Cymbidium hybridMoth Orchid hybridMasdevallia species

If you’re admiring a beautiful orchid gift, and you’re worried about killing it, take a deep breath and relax. Common orchid varieties don’t deserve their finicky reputations, and don’t require a green thumb. With a few care basics, they can keep their exotic tropical flowers for weeks or months. Most orchids sold today are sturdy hybrids, and you can care for them with a few tips:

  • When you water, water thoroughly, and then let the water drain completely from the pot. Never allow the pot to sit in water for an extended time, or the roots will rot.
  • You’ll eventually have to remove ribbons, wrapping paper, or decorative containers if they block the holes in the bottom of the flower pot. Orchids need good air flow and water drainage around their roots.
  • All orchids need high humidity. Dry air can lead to wilting flowers, drying leaves, and pests.
  • It will help to identify your orchid so you can learn its specific light, temperature, and water needs. You don’t need to figure out its exact name, only the family of orchids where it belongs.
  • Phals, or Moth Orchids, are the most common varieties sold. Other common types include Cattleyas, Epidendrums, Oncidiums, and Paphs.
  • If you can’t identify your orchid, use these basic care tips.
  • Check AboutOrchids for more helpful info, growing tips, FAQ, and great photos.

Dendrobium hybridPaph hybridMiltonia flower

Explore posts in the same categories: Growing, Photos, Watering

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4 Comments on “Mother’s Day Orchids”

  1. Paul Bennett Says:

    Great flowers! I love these photos. Thanks for ur blog post.

  2. nancy Says:

    nice color scheme! Thanks for your photos. They’re always wonderful.

  3. Mara Dempsey Says:

    Beautful photographs! I love them all, but that moth orchid is my favorite. Thanks for the post.

  4. jerremy z Says:

    thanks for providing valuable info about the topic. I am a fan to your website. Keep up the nice job.