Guide to Growing & Caring for Orchids

Planting

• Orchids grow best in a special medium that limits the amount of water held around the root system. An orchid medium may consist of bark, sphagnum moss, charcoal and peat moss. A pre-mixed growing medium may be purchased at garden supply stores. If you are repotting or planting a new specimen, the container should be 1 to 2 inches wider than the orchid's root ball.

Location

• Orchids grow best when placed in an area that receives bright sunlight and air circulation. An orchid with yellowing leaves may be receiving too much or too direct sunlight. Orchids prefer a humid environment and benefit from a humidifier in the room. Setting the container on top of rocks in a tray filled with water also provides humidity.

Care

• Orchids prefer a dryer growing environment, instead of being soggy. It is best to provide moisture by pouring a salt-free water into the container so it runs out the bottom. This also helps flush excess salt from the medium. Give the plants a 30-10-10 orchid fertilizer once a month at the time of watering. Orchids require repotting with new medium every two to three years. Increase the container size if the roots are tight.