Most orchids growing in the wild, grow in the rain forests, but where in the rain forest? They grow up in the canopy, the tops of the trees. Thats right! Most of them are air plants, and grow on the branches, and attach their roots to the bark. They are very happy where it's breezy warm, sunny, and humid. There are, however, some varieties that grow in the mountains, on rocks, in a cooler climate. Your supplier will be able to tell you about any special needs of the cooler growing orchids. Most of the common varieties are tropical.

First of all, LIGHT is the most important factor for successful blooming. BRIGHT BRIGHT light. South, South East, or South West exposure. A North exposure never has enough light to offer, and your orchid will never bloom and probably die. When the plant is in a southern exposure, be sure not to burn the plant. Feel the leaves, if they feel hot, they are getting sun burn (just like we do). This can be controlled by hanging a sheer curtain, or moving the plant back away from the window a few feet. Also when we speak about light, we need to also think about DURATION. For successful blooming most orchids need 12 to 14 hours of light per day. They also need the dark of night so they can "sleep" too. This enables them to follow their circadian rhythm. Light can be supplemented. There is a wide selection of types of plant lighting and timer set ups available at most garden centers. Please note that during the summer months the sun is high over head and does not shine directly into the windows. Some varieties of orchids will thrive better outside as long as it is warm enough.

Lets talk about WATERING. Most orchids need to be watered 1-2 times per week. There are many variables that determine how often you will need to water, such as temp and humidity. To help determine if it needs water, stick your finger into the potting media, if its dry, it needs water. Note be careful not to over water your orchids, this will cause root rot and plant death. Mist the leaves and exposed roots of your orchid every morning. Always use warm water, for watering and misting. Cold water will shock the plant. When you water, the excess should drain rapidly, do not leave it sitting in a pool of water. The potting media is very porous to allow for sufficient drainage. Remember the roots need air too. Water in the a.m. to allow the plant to dry before night fall. This brings us to HUMIDITY. Most growers will tell you that 50 % humidity is suggested. A humidifier can be placed near your orchids. Also you can place your plants on a humidity tray. This is the simplest way. Place the plants on a dish or tray filled with new, clean pebbles and water. Do not allow the water level to touch the bottom of the plant pot. You can drain off excess water with a turkey baster. Wash the tray and stones every few months to control bacteria and mold growth.

AIR CIRCULATION is another important factor. This can be achieved by using a small fan to duplicate a warm summer breeze like in the top of the rain forest canopy. This also will help prevent the growth of bacteria and plant viruses.

FEEDING. Only use ORCHID FOOD. There are many good brands available at your local garden center. Read the directions, then cut the amount to be used in HALF. Too much food will cause salts to build up which can cause black burns on the leaf tips and possibly plant death. Note many types of orchids absorb nutrients, through their roots, from the atmosphere. And speaking of atmosphere, Fresh, pure air is the best air. Household chemicals, ozone, and air pollution will also harm your orchids.

The last topic we will talk about in this section is TEMPERATURE. Most orchids will thrive with day time temp. betweene 70 and 90 degrees, and night time temps. from 60 to 75 degrees. There are many types of horticultural thermometers and humidity sensors available. A cheap thermometer near your orchids will also do the trick. Remember if you are comfortable, then your orchid is probably comfortable too.

IN CLOSING I need to tell you that the info. I have provided here is quite general and is what works for me and my orchids in THE DOMESTIC GODDESS ORCHID GALLERY. There is much more high tech info. available on the links I have provided, and thousands of publications available in book stores, garden centers, and libraries. Once you get your orchid's environment down to a science, orchid growing is easy, fun, relaxing and of course ADDICTING !. May all your orchids bloom and smile for you.

Questions, Comments, and Suggestions are welcome. You may e mail us at info@dgorchids.com

Domestic Goddess Orchids (860) -872- 6300

ORCHID GROWING TIPS IN A NUT SHELL