CULTURE INFORMATION
Orchids are tropical plants and do need humidity. There are many places in which orchids can be displayed indoors such as window sills, table tops, wall mounted, etc.Misting on the leaves with a spray bottle works great, or place them on a gravel tray filled with water so the plants do not sit in water. If you have shallow ornamental dish, about two inches above the rim, add a one inch layer of gravel, clay granules or pebbles. Keep it constantly moist but should not be waterlogged.
Water once a week with lukewarm water or room-temperature, water should be provided until it runs freely from the drainage holes(potted orchids), this helps to flush away the salts that naturally accumulate in the potting medium from salts in the water and the fertilizers Mounted orchids will require more watering, other words, few minutes later water them again. In winter when the temperature is cold it will take longer to dry between watering.
Watering is best done by taking the plants into a kitchen or bathroom and watering over the rim on potted orchids, mounted orchids should water the roots only. Remember that although the surface of potted orchids may appear dry, the base could be moist.
Fertilize twice a month during active growth, use a balanced fertilizer, always make sure you follow the instructions by using the proper amount, because more does not mean better.
Temperature for most of the orchids is between 50 and 95F you can grow most of them with this temperature. In winter chances are that you have electric or gas heat and fireplaces in your home.
This type of heat is very dry as we all know from the changes in our own skin.
Good ventilation is also essential to grow orchids avoiding bacterial disease. High temperatures and a stuffy atmosphere will also affect your orchids but keep them away from cold drafts or hot fires.
Orchids must be exposed to indirect sunlight and therefore net drapes should be use for diffusing strong light.
If you use a nice distinctive pot for your orchids, choose a pot that will complement in color the orchid flowers; cover the top of the compost/medium with pebbles if you wish. Make sure the plant is clean and free of pest.
For more information about your orchids, please do not hesitate to call us at:
860-982-9428, 860-828-1865 or
If you would like to learn more about orchids, please join us at our meetings the first Friday of every month at 6:00 p.m. 67 Hudson St. Berlin, Ct 06037. Refreshments will be available and raffles, call for reservations. Bring a friend! Admission is free!
Se habla espa`nol, si desea aprender o necesita ayuda con sus orquideas!
BALLADO ORCHIDS
