Orchids are plants that grow naturally in tropical and subtropical areas. Some species, however, are also born in Europe and in Italian territory.

Their bright and varied colors make them popular and appreciated in homes and gardens. Very often, however, they are left to die, because it is not known how to treat them. In this article we will try to help you understand how to care for orchids , taking into account all their characteristics and needs.

Orchid characteristics

Orchid plants are particularly varied: in fact, more than 20,000 species exist in nature, grouped into almost 700 genera. They grow in very warm, humid areas and grow near tree trunks and rocks.

A separate case are terrestrial orchids, which grow in more temperate areas, such as Europe, and are different from others because they have their roots in the earth.

In general, all orchids have a typical and recognizable shape; Its color, however, can vary. There are three species that are more easily found on the market: phalaenopsis, dendrobium and cymbidium.

How to grow orchids indoors

In addition to being beautiful, orchids are delicate plants that need to be treated with care. Below you will find everything you need to worry about to prevent your plant from drying out, getting sick, or worse yet, dying. You have to worry about the light and water it receives, but also treat the soil well and control the temperature to which it is exposed both day and night.

The light

Place the orchid plants in the direction of the window or balcony, but avoid direct exposure and contact with the heat source.

Therefore, do not place the plant on the balcony or in the center of the garden, but place it behind an awning or under a canopy, so that it can have shelter. In particular, direct contact should be avoided during the plant’s rest period.

water and irrigation

The orchid needs to live in a humid environment, but that does not mean it needs to be filled with water every day. Water it every 5-7 days. However, more often, the leaves must be treated: steam them often, using demineralized water.

For the summer months, when excess heat risks drying out the environment, get a humidifier, so that the plant always grows in an ideal and favorable environment.

The earth

Also pay attention to the potting soil. Create mixed soil by combining charcoal, shells and pieces of bark. The important thing is to create a porous environment in which humidity is neither too much nor too little. Among the most recommended are fine-grained soil and medium mix. In particular, the former makes the transplant easier and safer.

Ideal temperature and climate

The ideal temperature to grow orchids healthily and ensure that they last over time is 22°-23°, which is typical for an apartment.

They could survive even in contact with higher temperatures, as long as the environment they are in is ventilated and not completely exposed to light.

Spread

Generally, seed propagation can be done indoors. Create a sterile and particularly clean environment. Place two seeds below the surface of the pot at a time and make sure the soil is quality.

Orchids germinate slowly, but you can stimulate them with fertilizer. The most recommended are homemade fertilizers , made with natural ingredients.

Transplant

When transplanting a plant, be careful not to damage the roots, its most delicate part. Remove dead and rotten roots with the help of scissors.

The amount of soil should not be excessive, the roots should be lightly covered, so that they can adhere to the walls of the pot more easily.

the right vase

To know which is the right pot, you must take into account the type of orchid you have purchased.

In general, it is better to opt for a perforated pot, so that drainage is facilitated and humidity does not stagnate. To keep the temperature and heat at the right level, add a clay saucer.

Bloom

How to make orchid plant bloom again? The solution is in the change in temperature. In nature, in fact, orchids bloom again after a period of rest, which coincides with winter, when temperatures are lower. Exposing your plant to lower temperatures than usual will therefore ensure that, once exposed to its ideal temperature again, it can flower again.

The flowering time depends and is different from one species to another.