Orchids have long been a symbol of love. They generally have no scent, but their colour and beauty make them a much prized specimen plant. They are relatively easy to care for if you follow a few simple rules. Here is a guide on how to care for your orchid.
Orchids you can buy in garden centres generally fall into two categories - orchid cymbidium and phalaenopsis. Cymbidiums have huge waxy flowers and strap shaped leaves. They are mostly winter and spring flowering although there are some varieties that flower in summer and autumn. These orchids are best grown in a cool conservatory and placed out of doors in the summer. This type of environment will help to encourage re-flowering. When the plant has finished flowering, make sure you cut the stems back right down to the root.
Phalaenopsis are also know as Moth Orchids and are perhaps the most popular orchid to be bought as a house plant. Its large rounded flower gives it its name and they come in a wide range of colours and patterns. It will flower all year and re-flower on the same stem several times. Once this orchid has finished flowering, don't cut down to the base, but cut immediately above a node which will then form another flower.
When you buy an orchid from a garden centre it will usually be packaged in a cellophane wrapper. It is best to keep the orchid in this wrapper until it reaches its destination as orchids are very susceptible to temperature changes. A key difference between the two types of orchid to be noted is that cymbidiums usual come in an opaque pot, while phalaenopsis come in a clear pot. The clear pot is because the roots of phalaenopsis orchids have fungi on them which help to feed the plant. The fungi need light in order to survive and therefore a clear pot is always used to house the plant. Both plants like humid conditions and should be watered carefully. Remove the plant from any cover pot and water from the top, allowing the water to run through. Then let it drain before placing it back in a decorative planter. Both types of orchid prefer plenty of light but keep out of direct sunlight.
Orchids make a stunning display in their own right, but can also be shown off to their best advantage in a range of beautiful garden planters. Whichever planter you choose never re pot your plant directly into it, but keep it in its original pot placed inside the cover pot.
Jo Poultney is one of two people behind Garden Planters. I have an RHS general certificate in horticulture. Garden Planters source unusual outdoor and indoor planters, and other garden related gifts - whatever your taste, be it traditional, modern or just a bit quirky, we will have something for you. I believe garden planters are an integral part of any garden - they enhance the overall design and say a little something about the person to whom the garden belongs. If you would like to know more about Garden Planters, visit our website at http://www.gardenplantersshop.co.uk
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