University of Vermont Extension
Department of Plant and Soil Science
Anytime News
Article
GROWING
ORCHIDS 201
Dr. Leonard Perry, Extension Professor
University of Vermont
The orchid family is one of the largest and most
varied in the plant kingdom. Some root in the soil, while others are
“epiphytes” clinging non-parasitically to the trunks of trees or
rock cliffs.
Some orchids require moderate shade and others thrive in full
sunlight.
Additionally, some can withstand long periods of drought, while
others require
constant moisture. The key to successfully growing orchids is the
proper choice
of species and an understanding of the environment in which they
grow
naturally. There are several orchids that make good choices for a
beginning
grower.
Lady's Slippers (Paphiopedilum,
said as paf-fee-o-PED-eh-lum) species and hybrids require relatively
low
light levels. Some need cool (45 to 55 degrees F) growing conditions
while
others do well at intermediate temperatures (55 to 65 degrees F).
They are
terrestrial and should be potted in a finer textured potting mix
than
epiphytes. Coarse sand and peat make a good potting medium. Lady
Slippers will
not tolerate drying but should not be kept in a soggy condition.
These species
are good candidates for growing under fluorescent lights.
Boat or corsage orchid (Cymbidium, said as sym-BID-ee-um)
species and hybrids require high
light intensity and cool temperatures. These terrestrial orchids
will not
flower without low night temperatures (33 to 40 degrees F). The
miniature
species and hybrids are somewhat less demanding with regard to
temperature and are the best
candidates for indoor culture. A well-drained potting mixture is
required for best
results.
The corsage orchid (Cattleya, said as CAT-lee-ah) species and
hybrids are the most
common cut-flower commercial orchids. These orchids are epiphytic
and require
intermediate temperatures and high light intensity. They should be
potted in a
coarse, well-drained potting mix without much water-holding
capacity. The
species often have a stringent rest requirement between flowering
cycles. Many
hybrids are much less demanding and make good indoor plants.
The Spray orchid (Dendrobium,
said as den-DRO-bee-um) species, especially one most commonly found
(phalaenopsis, said as fail-a-NOP-sis),
are good candidates for indoor culture if large size is not a
problem. This
species is an epiphyte requiring intermediate temperature and
relatively high
light intensity. Most of the varieties will grow and flower well if
given a
four-week rest period as new growth matures. Watering should be
reduced during
this period but not stopped. Some varieties may flower without a
rest period.
Moth orchid (Phalaenopsis)
species and hybrids are epiphytes requiring warm temperatures. They
grow well
under relatively low light intensities and are good plants to grow
under
fluorescent lights. These plants must have a very coarse potting
medium that
drains rapidly. They do not tolerate drying and must be watered
frequently.
Visit the American Orchid Society website (www.aos.org)
if you want to learn more, find local societies, discover resources,
or to
pursue growing orchids as a hobby. Even
if you just buy an orchid in bloom to enjoy now, it is not uncommon
for
individual flowers to remain in good bloom for two to three months
if given the
right care and conditions.
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