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

Their vivid and varied colors make them appreciated and widespread in homes and gardens. Very often, however, they are left to die, because no one knows 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.

Characteristics of the orchid

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

A special case is terrestrial orchids, which grow in more temperate areas, such as Europe, and differ from the others because they sink their roots into the soil.

In general, all orchids have a typical, recognizable shape; Its color, on the other hand, can be variegated. There are three species that are most easily found on the market: phalaenopsis, dendrobium, and cymbidium.

How to Grow Orchids at Home

In addition to being beautiful, orchids are delicate plants that need to be treated with care. Below, you’ll find all the aspects that need to be taken care of to prevent the plant from drying out, getting sick, or worse, dying. You have to take care of 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 orchid plants toward the window or balcony, but avoid direct exposure and contact with the heat source.

So, don’t place the plant on the balcony or in the center of the garden, but place it behind a tent or under a canopy, so that you can have shelter. In particular, direct contact during the plant’s resting period should be avoided.

Water & Irrigation

The orchid needs to live in a humid environment, but that doesn’t mean it needs to be watered every day. Water it every 5-7 days. More often, however, the leaves need to be treated: steam them often, using demineralized water.

For the summer periods, when too much heat runs the risk of making the environment particularly dry, get a humidifier, so that the plant always grows in an ideal and favorable environment.

The loam

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

Ideal temperature and climate

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

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

Propagation

In general, seed propagation can be done indoors. Recreate a sterile and particularly clean environment. Place two seeds at a time under the surface of the pot and make sure the soil is of good quality.

Orchids germinate slowly, but you can stimulate them with fertilizer. The most recommended are homemade fertilizers, made from 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 not be covered so that they adhere more easily to the walls of the pot.

The Right Pot

To find the right pot, you need to consider the type of orchid you’ve bought.

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

Flowering

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

Flowering times depend on are different from species to species.