The Basics of Growing Orchids

Selection

• Determine the natural environment for the orchid species you want to raise. When growing them outside, choose a type indigenous to the area. If you're trying to raise an arctic orchid in south Florida, move it indoors. Light is the single most important factor determining whether yours will bloom. Look at the leaves. They should be a light-green color. A yellowish tinge means its getting too much light. Dark green indicates not enough light.

Environment

• Healthy orchids need water, humidity and a breeze. Those last two factors can make it tough to get an orchid to thrive indoors. OrchidMania claims the average home registers 30-to-40 percent humidity. Orchids do best in the 60-to-80 percent range. Orchids need air movement. A small fan mounted in the growing area can make all the difference.

Potting

• Orchids don't grow in regular potting soil. These plants take in nutrients through what are called "epiphytes" on their leaves; the only real purpose for using a medium in the growing pot is to hold the orchid upright. Fir bark chips, coconut fiber, sifted perlite, rockwool, clay pellets, cork, or charcoal should all work well, as long as it allows for good air circulation among the roots.

Fertilizer

• Since orchids can live a century or more, fertilizing on a schedule isn't critical. Most orchids do quite well with a high-nitrogen or other type of balanced plant food served every few weeks. Flush the pot with water frequently, as salt buildup anywhere on the plant will quickly kill it.