Sep 2

Sep 2 The Truth About Orchids

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The Truth About Orchids

Orchids can be the heartbreakers of house plants- exotic beauties that often die too young, leaving you dejected and confused. How many times have you cast away your orchids because you thought their time was up? The truth is you may be giving up on them way too soon.

When their petals drop and dry up they may be taking their final bow, but the rest of the plant is very much alive. If you’re patient, you’ll see fisted buds swelling on the stems in a few months. Soon the buds will reveal the same magnificent flowers you brought home. Imagine that spectacular birth repeating throughout the year. The real truth about orchids is that there are so many truths because there are so many types. Let's start with the “easiest” type, the phalaenopsis.

Phalaenopsis orchids are epiphytes, they naturally grow in trees. They hang onto a tree with their roots and receive filtered light through the leaves. Phals enjoy the same temperatures we do, just as we like to wear a swimsuit during the day and a long sleeve shirt at night. Fluctuating temperatures can cause buds to “blast” or drop on plants with buds ready to open. This often happens when plants are transported from indoors to a car in winter or summer.

Water about 1/4 cup every 10-14 days for plants potted in sphagnum moss or a mixture. Plants potted in a bark potting medium may require watering more often. Place the plant in the sink and let the water run through. After the plant rests for a minute, repeat to allow all the water to drain. Do not get water into the crown (where the leaves join in the center). Use a paper towel to blot the water to avoid crown rot. Too much water causes the roots to rot which kills the plant. Exposure to smoke, cigarettes, paint fumes, fruit (which emits ethylene gas) and drafts from air vents can also cause bud drop. NO ICE CUBES!

Subjecting orchids to ice cubes does not remotely emulate their healthy environment. After all, Phalaenopsis orchids are from Southeast Asia – an area that has probably not seen ice since an Ice Age.

When the blooms are finished, simply cut off the stem leaving 2 nodes (brown lines on the stem). Continue watering and fertilizing the plant and it will most likely bloom again in 3-12 months. Re-pot your phalaenopsis plant every 1-3 years.

Use a balanced fertilizer (20-20-20 / 10-10-10) feeding 1/2 strength every other time you water. Use clear water once a month to push out salts from the potting mix. Be sure not to over fertilize, this can be more detrimental to the plant than no fertilizer at all. Over fertilizing will burn the leaves and cause them to fall off.

To learn more about our beautiful friends, stop by Flowers of Giverny at Corso Atlanta

3200 Howell Mill Rd NW, Atlanta, GA 30327

470-747-0394