How to grow orchids at home
Main content introduction: Tips and small experiences on how to grow and care for orchids at home, next [] the editor will introduce.
Master the "6 elements" of indoor orchid cultivation, even the most difficult orchids will not rot, and grow well with annual flowering
Orchids are considered an elegant plant in the orchid world. They are not only admired for their leaves when not flowering, but also for their flowers when in bloom, with different levels of beauty. Many people want to grow orchids, but often fail to do so, actually because they have not mastered the basic care methods.
1. Pot selection
If we want to grow orchids well, pot selection is crucial. We know that orchid roots are thick and fleshy, growing vertically downwards, so we should choose a pot with good breathability and water permeability, specifically designed for orchids with side holes and large bottom holes to ensure the roots grow well without getting stuffy or rotting.
2. Soil preparation
Many people have different methods for preparing soil for orchids, but we need to understand the characteristics of orchid roots. Since orchid roots are thick and lack fine roots, we cannot use garden soil, which easily becomes compacted, preventing roots from penetrating and causing problems. Watering can easily cause accumulation, leading to root rot. Therefore, we should use breathable granular soil for planting orchids, with large gaps allowing thick roots to grow and move freely without causing accumulation. So, we should choose a combination of hard and soft granules for soil preparation, such as bark, small smooth stones, wheat husks, small ceramic particles, and red brick fragments. Well-fermented bark and peanut shells are nutritious and can be added more to ensure nutrients in the potting soil.
3. Lighting
Proper lighting is essential for growing orchids well. We know that orchids thrive under trees, where the light is diffused, creating a semi-shaded environment. So, we should also create such conditions, either by placing them under a tree or by shading with a sun-blocking net at 50%-70%. It's best to avoid direct sunlight at noon to ensure sufficient light and good growth for normal flowering.
How to grow orchids at home
4. Watering
Under the premise of well-ventilated and water-permeable soil, watering orchids is relatively simple. They prefer moisture and fear dryness. Lack of water can cause root drying. So, if our soil has more granules, we can water it when the surface is dry to the touch, and if there is no moisture one finger deep, we can water it thoroughly. When watering, be sure not to use water that is too hot or too cold, and try to keep it close to the air temperature. Good ventilation during watering will prevent problems.
5. Fertilizing
The key to fertilizing orchids is the choice of fertilizer. We know that orchids bloom, so we need to understand the period of flower bud differentiation, which for most orchid varieties is completed in summer. By autumn, the flower buds will gradually emerge from the soil. Therefore, we should supplement phosphorus and potassium fertilizers in summer, such as monopotassium phosphate or Flower多多2, once or twice a month, but not too concentrated. Spring and autumn are both growing seasons, so it's best to use multi-element fertilizers to ensure sufficient nutrients. Remember to apply thin fertilizers frequently and avoid using concentrated fertilizers.
6. Ventilation and humidity
Problems with growing orchids at home are often caused by poor indoor ventilation. Orchids prefer humidity, and poor ventilation can easily cause leaf and root rot. Therefore, we should ensure good ventilation as much as possible, such as keeping them on a balcony and using fans or exhaust fans to help. Watering for one or two hours and frequently opening windows can prevent root and leaf rot.
To grow orchids well, you need to know these six points and adjust your care methods accordingly to ensure good growth without root or leaf rot, making you a pro.
The above is a detailed introduction to how to grow orchids at home and the tips for caring for them. Have you understood?