From Chinese and Japanese manuscripts we learn that they were growing Orchids, ie, Dendrobiums, Cymbidiums and other native species approximately 3,000 years ago. They cultivated them for their scent rather than their beauty. They loved their strong perfume and long-lasting flowers.
With the Europeans exploring the New World, the native flora and fauna became known to the Western world. The British particularly spent time and money developing greenhouses to house the new plants including Orchids.
Orchids are one of the largest groups of flowering plants, and roughly 25,000-30,000 species have been identified. Over the years they have become popular house plants, especially Phalaenopis Orchids, whose flowers can last up to 10-12 weeks.
Basic Orchid care
For the best results you will need to build a shade house, and after that you will require the right type of potting materials ‒ charcoal, rocks, bark or orchid mix ‒ as well as plant food such as Miracle Gro All Purpose, Bloom Booster and/or Osmocote Slow Release Fertilizer.
Orchids like humidity but their shade house should have good ventilation. As is implied by what has been said so far, they need good light, but not direct sunlight. They will not bloom all the time; they will have a resting period.
It is important that you check for pests or fungus regularly.
Once you follow the rules of basic care your Orchids should grow healthy and produce many blooms regularly.
Until next week, happy gardening.
