Friday, January 9, 2009

Orchids, Easy As 1, 2, 3...


I am a fan of Orchids and once you figure out how SIMPLE they are
to grow, you will be too. There are a long list of Orchids that are
not only easy to care for but easily purchased. You can walk into almost any Grocery Store and find them sitting in the flower department waiting for you to take them home. I also find my Orchids at Big Box Superstores and the occasional Nursery. Orchids are mass produced and relatively inexpensive. Typically I will pay 15-20 dollars for an Orchid. I expect them to bloom for several months, they never disappoint me.
Here is the deal, they love morning sunshine or a bright, bright light filled room. In nature they grow in steamy jungles attached to sides of trees, catching streams of sunshine and rain filtered through the canopy of leaves from above. The best part is this, at home the only required effort is to put them in the sink every few weeks, soak them with warm water and gently water the leaves. The rest of the time they hang out just enjoying the day and look lovely. I have never had bug problems or mysterious die backs. I believe it is because I do not "over love" them, I give them their space and pay attention to them only a few times a month. They are the perfect choice if you travel and like to come home to flowering beauties.
My favorites are Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchids), Cymbidiums and Oncidiums. All are hardy, inexpensive and beautiful.
My Orchids bring me joy every day.
When they are not blooming I put them together in long cachepots so they can rest and recharge. The best part of resting is 6 months later when they burst back into bloom. Oh happy day!
Give Orchids a try you will be happy you did.
To learn more, click here.