Orchids at Home:

    "How do I simulate the rainy, misty, breezes and the temperatures of the tropics?"
    Fortunately this is simpler than it seems. The conditions Orchids want are nothing like the tropics. Most orchids grow at medium altitudes with cool temperatures and breezes, not in the steamy, hot environment at the forest floor. In fact, most orchids thrive in dry, nutrient poor conditions that would probably kill your houseplants. Orchid roots and leaves capture water and nutrients quickly and then they like to dry off. An east or west windowsill will do just fine for most popular orchids. South is best for high light orchids such as Cattleyas or Dendrobiums.


    "My orchids grow fine but I just cannot get them to bloom, have you any suggestions?!"
    The most likely problem is not enough light or not enough variance in temperatures. Orchids in proper light usually have a light green color. If the light is too low, plants look healthy but may not bloom. In their natural habitat most orchids experience a big difference in day and night temperature. When plants stay at the same temperature their natural rhythms are distorted and they do not send out the signal to bloom ...so try to provide at least a 10 degree difference between day and night temperature.


    Your Orchid Collection:

    Having just one orchid is like eating one potato chip - it is almost impossible. Their fascinating diversity will make you want more. While your plants are in bloom, display them anywhere. When blooms fade, move them to their growing area to encourage strong new growth after a resting period. Most orchid species bloom once a year at about the same time but hybrids are available that will bloom more often. Orchids grow and flower in a wide variety of situations.
     Choose your plants carefully and try to provide conditions as near as possible to those enjoyed in their natural habitat.