Orchid Plant Guide

How To Cultivate Vivacious And Superior Tropical Orchids


The degree of difficulty in cultivating tropical orchids is no different from other orchids except that most of them are epiphytes (tree dwelling plants). In the early 1800's, British cultivators failed miserably when they attempted to cultivate tropical orchids under dark, hot, and steamy conditions. Success eluded the British until they realized that most tropical orchids grow at higher, cooler elevations and in the upper branches of trees where they receive copious amounts of light and optimal drainage systems.

Light Requirements:

To prevent overheating, shade is a necessity for tropical orchids. When indoors, the orchids demand maximum exposure to light. A good idea to fulfill light requirements is to place the tropical orchid under a tall tree on a sunny day. Full exposure to direct sunlight will burn the leaves. Do not place the orchid on the ground because pests such as insects and slugs can enter the pots and damage the plants. If desired, these tropical orchids can be suspended from tree branches, chains, strong trees, or other structures using pot hangers.

Temperature Requirements:

A cool room with a moderate temperature will prevent dehydration. Most orchids thrive under temperatures below the comfort level of humans, especially during the evening. A temperature of 55-65° is ideal for tropical orchids at night in greenhouses.

Soil requirements:

Tropical orchids require loose mixtures of organic material such as fir bark, tree fern, or osumda fiber with small amounts of peat, perlite, cork or charcoal added. The goal is to have a mixture that drains well, but has the ability to maintain a bit of moisture. Most commercial orchid growers supply ready-to-use orchid mixes in small quantities.

Watering Requirements:

When watering tropical orchids, it's best to soak the potting mix thoroughly and wait until the surface is relatively dry before watering again. Most orchids in fir bark based mixes will need watering about once every 5 to 7 days.

Fertilizer Requirements:

Water-soluble urea free fertilizers are safe for tropical orchids. Watering should always be done before fertilizing. Fertilizing follows the same rule as watering as it is best to under fertilize than to over fertilize. Household conditions of lower light and drier air hinder the orchid's ability to use as much fertilizer as they could use in a greenhouse.

Following these simple instructions will lead to successful cultivation of vivacious and superior tropical orchids.

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