Many in our community are big lovers of Orchids and if you are too, this is the post for you. Today we are sharing the Top 10 Don’ts when growing Orchids that you need to know.
Many of the don’ts that are included in the list are popular misconceptions. It’s worth keeping an open mind to see if there is anything that you could be doing differently with your Orchids.
image via mahargo
Handy Hints For Growing Orchids
via Mahagro
Before we dive into the things you shouldn’t be doing when growing orchids, we thought we would share this excellent infographic that has some handy tips.
As you can see orchids have a complex root system and it’s very important to plant them the correct way. Planting your orchid in a double pot ensures adequate drainage and also root ventilation.
Top 10 Growing Tips For Orchids Video
via Miss Orchid Girl, Youtube.
We have included this excellent video tutorial from Miss Orchid Girl. She will go through her top 10 tips don’ts when growing orchids.
We highly recommend you view. This way you can understand her reasons fully. To watch, click Play above ^
Top 10 Don’ts When Growing Orchids
via Miss Orchid Girl
1. Don’t Water Your Orchids From Above
Water left standing in the crown and between leaves can cause rotting. If you manage to wet the orchid, take a paper napkin and remove the water as best as you can.
2. Don’t Leave Water In Orchid Dish Or Container
Orchids don’t like to have wet feet as they say. Make sure you remove all the excess water, so drain the orchid pot as best as you can.
3. Don’t Water Your Orchids With Ice
Orchids are exotic plants, at least the vast majority of them. Ice cold water can seriously damage orchid roots, so use lukewarm water, even if you use tap water.
4. Don’t Separate Pseudobulbs Individually
Pseudobulbs store energy and nutrients, they are an orchid’s batteries.
The more connected pseudobulbs an orchid has, the more energy it will have to grow faster and stronger, so never separate individual pseudobulbs.
5. Don’t Use Regular Potting Soil With Orchids
The majority of the orchids you can buy are epiphytic plants, this means they do not grow in soil, but in the air, clinging to trees and branches. Use bark chips as a beginner, it is the safest media.
6. Don’t Place Orchids In Direct Sun
Orchids, in general, have pretty fragile leaves when it comes to the direct sun and overheating. Place orchids in bright shade to avoid damage.
7. Don’t Mist Orchid Flowers
If in some cases misting leaves can benefit orchids, misting flowers is never a good idea. Water droplets can produce mold spots or patches on the flowers.
8. Don’t Cut Aerial Roots
Some orchids just seem to grow roots in the air, especially Phalaenopsis. It’s normal and natural. Leave them be, they are important for the orchid.
9. Don’t Cut Healthy Canes Or Pseudobulbs
As I said, they are the batteries of orchids, the fewer canes an orchid has, the slower it will grow if it will have energy at all. Leave the green canes and pseudobulbs alone.
10. Don’t Neglect Orchids
Don’t think that just because they are plants, they don’t need attention.
The more attention you give to your orchids, the faster you will spot problems and even have greater chances of curing them.
Check on your orchid daily, or every few days at least. Even if she is not in bloom, your orchid still needs your love.
