Here are some basic rules for growing Orchids -- Welcome to Orchids, etc.

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Date Posted: 08:37:47 10/14/00 Sat
Author: Anonymous
Subject: Here are some basic rules for growing Orchids

It really isn't hard to grow orchids, just remember, DO NOT over water, let them completely dry out between waterings, watch for fungus and mold as well. When transplanting or breaking down bigs orchids, always use a new clean straight edge razor blade. Orchids are very susceptible to diseases and molds! Have fun it is a great hobby and self rewarding as well.

General Orchid Care Tips

Humidity - Because most orchids grow in climates with moist air,
they do prefer humidity levels between 50% and 80%.
Considering the average house has about 10% humidity, some
adjustments will have to be made. Humidity can be raised by
misting leaves every morning, by running a small humidifier, or, perhaps the
easiest method, by setting them on pebble trays. A pebble tray is a
container with 2" or higher sides, larger than the pot, containing 1 1/2" or
more of gravel and containing 1/4" to 1" of water. The bottom of the pot
rest on the rocks, but never comes in contact with the water. Along with
humidity goes good air circulation. High humidity coupled with stagnant air
provides a breeding ground for fungal problems. Lacking a nice, airy room,
a small fan or slightly opened window will help.

Temperature - Extreme cold is not tolerated, but fall nights to 55�F
will encourage flowering. Day temperatures of 75�F to 85�F are optional.
Increase water, air movement, and humidity when temperature exceeds
85�F. Seedlings like temperatures 5�F to 10�F higher. Greatly fluctuating
temperatures can cause buds to drop.

Fertilizing - In the wild, orchids are fertilized only by minute particles
of organic debris that wash over their roots, so orchids are not heavy
feeders. The best advise for most orchids is to fertilize half the
recommended strength fertilizer, twice monthly or 1/4 of the
recommended strength weekly. The formulation of plant food you use will
depend both on the type of orchid and the type of growing medium it is
potted in. Most orchid enthusiasts and growers prefer a formula that
contains no urea as a source of Nitrogen. Examine the back label for this
information. In a bark-based potting medium, use a 30-10-10 formulation
or Follett's Orchid Best 10-4-4 (urea free). As the bark ages and
decomposes, it absorbs quite a bit of nitrogen, so a higher nitrogen ratio is
needed to makes sure the plant receives enough nutrients. Fertilize weekly
during the summer or when plants are blooming. In cooler weather,
fertilize only once or twice per month. In non-organic potting media, a
balanced 8-8-8 fertilizer, such as Follett's Watch Us Grow, is preferred.
In a pro-mix type potting media, the media absorbs and concentrates the
fertilizer, so reduce the strength to 1/8 the recommended strength of any
dry mix. We have found that Follett's Orchid Best provides excellent
results, i.e. multiple spikes and vibrant blooms, in all types of potting
media. Do not mix the fertilizer any stronger than is recommended for
fear of burning the roots. Give enough fertilizer solution to the pot that
some runs out of the bottom (you can collect it and reuse). Since plants can
absorb nutrients through their foliage, spraying the fertilizer solution on
the leaves is also beneficial.

Light - A general rule of thumb for determining correct light levels is to
judge by the color of the leaves. A healthy orchid in proper light has
foliage that is a clear light to medium green with new leaves showing a soft
sheen. The plant should flower regularly. Reddish or purple edges to the
leaves are an indication that the leaves are getting as much light as they
can take without burning. Too much light can also bleach out the
chlorophyll, causing the leaves to look pale or yellowish-green. Too low
light makes foliage a dark, grass green and the plant will not flower well
or at all.

Bugs and Slugs - Orchids can occasionally "come down with a bug".
Mealy bugs, scales, and aphids can simply be washed off (preferably
outdoors). If chemical pesticides are used, malathion will control scale,
mealy bugs, and aphids. Rubbing alcohol may be sprayed on plants, blooms
and buds as an alternative to insecticide. Slug and snail damage can be
lessened by not setting plants directly on the ground when putting orchids
outside for the summer. A product containing metaldehyde may be used to
kill slugs and snails.

Repotting - Most orchids will need to be repotted at one time or another
- either when they out grow their existing container of when the potting
medium begins to break down, generally every 2 or 3 years. Because
orchids like impeccable drainage, media such as fir bark, osmunda fiber,
volcanic rock, and charcoal have all been used. Exactly what mixture
should be used and when to repot will depend o the orchid variety, your
climate, and the size and age of the plant.

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Replies:

Re: Here are some basic rules for growing Orchids -- Anonymous, 17:33:06 10/14/00 Sat