Friday, December 19, 2008

Wouldnt You Like To Know The Basics of Splendid Orchid Care Part1

Let us say you indeed are earnest about growing splendid, magnificent orchids that are destined to enchant your entire family – and make friends go green with envy – then there are only four domains that require your full attention: temperature, humidity, water and light.

That is it.

Of course, depending on your orchid species, it will require different mix of the four. First, you need to know what types of orchids you’re caring for and then you need to know the quantity of each of these that your particular kind craves.

Let there be light

Let’s look at the last factor listed. Light makes all the difference, not only in the health of your flower, but in its size and shape as well.

No idea how much light your orchid likes?

Here are some fast hints. Initially look at the size and shape of your orchid. If your orchid has long and thin leaves then it is likely to require a lot of sunlight. In fact, it needs to be exposed to a strong light for the majority of the day.

Conversely, orchids with soft and wide leaves needs less sunlight. These wonderful plants flourish in a shaded area.

And, Then there is customization and this requires your vigilant eye. When your orchid looks a bit 'tired' it's indicating to you that it needs some more light.

Water, the element that guarantees survival of the orchid.

Water, the most critical requirement in orchid care. It is vital to understand that your orchid needs water only when the soil turns dry. The nurturing of orchids is a ongoing balance between air and water. For example, if the roots of these flowers don’t have enough air, then watering them will only case the growing medium to rot. This in turn, leads to fungus and the slow destruction of your orchid plant through infections and diseases.

Different orchid plants require differing amounts of moisture. Here are 3 simple tests that tell you if you need to water your prized flower. Water your orchid more if it’s

• exposed to humidity levels less than 40 percent
• having a lot of air movement which in turn leads to extra evaporation
• mounted on or in a basket

Join us for the next installment where we talk about the next to elements, temperature and humidity.
Neville Greenwood is a orchid growing enthusiast, through a free minicourse he will show you how to create your own amazing orchids step by step. Click to get your course noworchid concessions

Find out the elation of growing orchids

I would like to personally praise you for having discovered them.

You’ve finally discovered them, haven't you?

Orchids, that is! They possess basically good looking flowers. . . they have a delicate, enjoyable odor . . . and there is such a joy in being able to view them in the morning from your window while you sip your Nth cup of coffee.

Now, you’re considering growing them yourself. That is a good choice. One of the very first discoveries you’ll make is how uncomplicated they are to cultivate, once you study a little about these extraordinarily distinctive gifts from Mother Nature.

And that’s what we’re here for!

Look around. You’ll find everything you need to know about growing orchids. And if you have any questions that we haven’t answered, then please by all means ask us. We’ll be happy to answer them for you.

You’ll be in good company. Since practically the dawn of time, mankind has been rapt with this flower – with the many unique species and the amazing assortment of colors and styles of blooms. These flowers beautifully embellish decorate any garden!

Orchids are the original “survivors.” They grow in some of the most startling places. Apart from the rainforest, they also bloom in the cold permafrost landscape of the tundra, and even underground. No wonder we’ve been spellbound with them for so long.

But that’s not the only fascinating piece of the orchid. Seeds of the orchid actually explode from the orchid and then fly away as the wind blows. But, before that the plant establishes what’s known as a mutually beneficial relationship with a special fungus. The fungus then garners water and minerals for not only itself, but for the seedlings of the orchids as well.

In return the seedlings portion out the sugars created through the process of photosynthesis with the fungus.

If you’re just beginning your love affair with the orchid, you’ll be over joyed to know you can enjoy these timeless beauties indoors on your windowsill, outside in your backyard and in the protective covering of your glasshouse.

Why choose? Grow them in all three places!

Some of these astounding plants have noticeable pleated leaves with flowers that are wax-like and long lasting, such as the Lycaste. This orchid is named after the Greek nymph of the same name – it is said that Lycaste was dedicated to the daughter of the last king of Troy, Priam.

Following our legendary theme, Masdevallia is a name you should know – no doubt you’ve seen these. Named after a doctor in the court of Charles II of Spain, Jose Masdeval, this specific orchid has been adorning gardens for centuries. The dainty-looking flowers have commonplace tails; the petals are fine with sepals, the outermost portion of the orchid.

I’m still emotional when I acquire these three different types of orchids – and personally find that each plant holds a entirely lucid, individual, and immensely different type of bloom on each one. Not only in colouring, but in shape, in size, and even fragrance (I grow one called Oncidium Sharry Baby that smells like chocolate. Really! And get this - it’s easy to grow in the house as a potted plant.)

What are you waiting for? Go forth and get your own orchid! Now you know where to come for all of your orchid needs. Check out our comprehensive Orchid Care Secrets Minicourse which will give you even more in depth information about caring for your orchid..
Neville Greenwood is a orchid growing enthusiast, he has helped many people grow successful orchid plants that are absolutely gorgeous. For a free minicourse on how to grow your own orchids head over to Orchid Care