Which Orchid Plants Should You Grow?

There are two basic types of orchid plants. Terrestrial orchids grow at ground level and are rooted in soil. They other type is epiphytic, which are mainly native to tropical regions and are therefore referred to as Tropical orchids.

Tropical orchids grow on trees and shrubs, and sometimes on rocks. These orchids are not parasites; instead, they use their host only for support and anchorage, with their roots lodged in the organic matter and exposed to air.

Some orchids are herbaceous, meaning their foliage dies down in the winter. Others are evergreen. The tropical orchid plants are showier and more brilliant than the terrestrial types, yet both varieties are captivating and amazing to grow. Here are some basic orchid growing tips for indoor varieties.

Growing Indoor Orchid Plants

Indoor orchids and supplies for growing them are widely sold by garden centers and orchid nurseries. Key to successful indoor orchid growing is not to have high temperatures or a stuffy atmosphere. Good ventilation is essential, but avoid cold drafts near your plants.

The easiest tropical orchids to grow in your home are:

Cattleyas
Dendrobiums
Epidendrums
Lycastes
Oncidiums
Paphiopedilum
Phalaenopsis

These varieties rarely grow more than 30 inches tall. All will thrive at normal room temperatures and moderate humidity. Pot them in a good orchid growing mix and place on any windowsill that does not allow direct sunlight.

Orchid Growing Tips for Corsages

Some of the most simple yet stunningly attractive corsages and buttonholes can be created from orchids you grow at home. Perfect for this are the Dendrobiums and Phalaenopsis, with the addition of foliage from any suitable houseplant. Imagine your orchid plants becoming corsages for friends and family!

Orchid Plants For Greenhouses and Growing Cases

While many orchids can be grown indoors, others are better grown in greenhouses and taken indoors when in flower. In fact, a great way to display your orchid flower indoors is by using a growing-case.

Growing cases are ornate, miniature greenhouses that can be used indoors. They stand several feet high and 4-6 feet long, and about 2 feet deep. Also serving the exact same purpose is an old fish tank of similar dimensions.

You can grow a medley of small orchids and ferns, all left in their own pots, in growing-cases or aquariums. The following orchid plants do exceptionally well in growing cases:

Brassia verrucosa
x Brassolaeliocatteya 'Norman's Bay'
Cattleya aurantiaca
Paphiopedilums
Phalaenopsis

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