Can Orchids Be Planted Next to Each Other?

Site Selection

• Terrestrial orchids are finicky garden plants that won't grow just anywhere. Before planting, it's important to study your garden or home landscape to determine which site best meets the cultivation requirements of hardy ground orchids. For best results, look for a partially shaded location that offers well-draining soil with lots of nutrient-rich, organic matter. The site you choose should receive at least four hours of bright sunlight per day to encourage healthy blossom production.

Site Preparation

• Cultivation of terrestrial orchids is more successful in areas that have well-worked soil. That's why it's always a good idea to till the soil at the selected site before planting your orchids. To improve the soil's nutrition and drainage, work in several inches of organic materials: 3 inches of peat moss, 3 inches of well-rotted compost, 1 inch of perlite and 1 inch of ground redwood bark is usually sufficient to amend most garden soils. Till the organic materials into the soil to a depth of 8 inches.

Spacing and Planting

• Most types of terrestrial orchids should be planted under 2 inches of soil and 9 to 12 inches apart to promote healthy development. Keep in mind that the recommended spacing may vary a bit between terrestrial orchid species; consult the nursery information tag that came with your rhizomes to determine the ideal spacing for your hardy orchids. Place one rhizome in each of the planting holes; backfill the holes with the displaced, amended soil and lightly pack the surface.

Outdoor Orchid Care

• Terrestrial orchids will thrive with very little special care when planted in carefully prepared locations. Irrigate your orchids at least once weekly, spring through summer, to maintain lightly moistened soil. Provide up to 1 inch of supplemental irrigation each time you water; never provide so much water that the soil becomes soggy or flooded. Terrestrial orchids aren't heavy feeders, but they still enjoy occasional light fertilization. Fertilize the orchids with 1/4-strength solution of a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer once a month, while the plant are actively growing.