How to Grow Bamboo Orchids

The bamboo orchid (Arundina graminifolia) is a flowering plant native to the Pacific Islands. It also grows wild in tropical areas such as Hawaii and Puerto Rico. It is so-named because it grows on a small stand similar to bamboo. The bamboo orchid has white flowers with lavender throats that bloom for four to five weeks in temperate climates. The bamboo orchid requires a soil medium, unlike many other orchids that grow in air.

Large planting pot
Broken brick
Compost
Potting soil
18-inch gardening stake
Twine

Instructions

- 1
  Grow bamboo orchids in warm climates. This plant thrives only in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 11 and 12, meaning that it does not tolerate temperatures of less than 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Most gardeners in the U.S. grow bamboo orchids in pots so they can bring them indoors during cool weather.
- 2
  Place a layer of broken brick in the bottom of a large planting pot to provide good drainage. Mix 3 parts rich potting soil with 1 part compost and fill the pot with the soil mixture.
- 3
  Remove the bamboo orchid from its temporary container. Plant it in the planting pot, ensuring that the bamboo orchid is at the same level as it was in the temporary container.
- 4
  Place an 18-inch gardening stake in the pot and tie the stalk of the bamboo orchid loosely to the stake with twine. This will provide support for the growing plant.
- 5
  Place the bamboo orchid outside in full sun when the temperature remains above 40 degrees Fahrenheit. Indoors, place the plant in front of a sunny window, usually an unobstructed south-facing window.
- 6
  Water the bamboo orchid every three days to ensure the soil remains moist. Apply organic fertilizer, according to the manufacturer's instructions.
- 7
  Transplant the offshoots from the main stalk when they produce a firm swelling at the the base.

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