Orchid Species Selection Tips
There are a number of factors that should go into choosing which orchid species to grow. Personal preference, as well as the type of care required for each type should be taken into consideration. Your climate and conditions should also be factored into your decision.
Since orchids are found naturally on every continent except Alaska, they are capable of surviving in a number of different conditions. There are over 20,000 natural species of orchids. Some are found in hot and humid climates, and others prefer conditions that are cool and dry.
Likewise, there are species of orchids that will do well in many different lighting conditions. Some varieties will do better in shady areas, while some are better suited for much heat and sunlight. Within each of these there are still numerous choices.
Examples of orchids that prefer shady areas would be the Paphiopedilum (Ladyslipper orchid) and the Phalaenopsis (Moth orchid). On the other hand, Cattleya and Vanda are better choices for areas that receive much sunlight. Miltonias are usually good for areas with medium light.
You should also consider one of two growing temperature ranges. The cooler end is from 60F-75F (16C-24C), whereas the warmer range is from 70F-85F (21C-29C). For obvious reasons, these ranges do overlap a bit. These are only general ranges, as plants will sometimes do well in a number of different conditions.
Obviously, when choosing a species, you want to consider your interest and level of expertise. Some plants may require more care than you have time for. Some plants need re-potted more often than others as well. Orchids typically need re-potted anywhere from one to three years. Depending on how many plants you're talking about, that could be a lot of work.
Epiphytes, for example, can be found clinging to trees in nature. This environment is simulated by wiring an orchid to a tree to resemble it's natural habitat. This procedure takes a great deal of patience and time to perfect.
There are varieties of orchids that should prove to be less challenging for beginners. An orchid that is usually considered very easy to grow is the Phalaenopsis. Beginners will also find success with Dendrobiums.
These plants will both be in bloom for about three months at a time and possibly twice a year. One of the biggest reasons that people get into flower gardening is because of how visually pleasing they are. All of the time and effort that goes into planting and maintaining these gardens is well worth it when the flowers are in bloom.
The decision you make, as far as which orchid to grow, should be made with consideration to the time and conditions you will be able to give it . Depending on which type it is, it could be a lot of work or not much at all. If you plan to have a greenhouse, for example, maintaining the 50% or more humidity that the plants will need may be easy.
The time and work that you put in to growing your orchids will be greatly rewarded when it blooms.
Introduction to Orchid Gardening
|
