Orchids are amongst the largest flowering plant families in the world. They are rare and exotic, steeped in myth and romance, and have been the symbols of pure, undying love. There are about 17000 original species of them and many more manmade hybrids.
They are of two types. One type grows on the ground, and the other, known as “epiphytes”, grows on tree trunks, branches, and rocky surfaces. Thousands of new hybrids have been created that enhance the natural colors and scents of these flowers. People are so allured by the beauty of these natural wonders that they have ended up dedicating their entire lives to nurturing them. Many grow them indoors, many have greenhouses for them, and some even go out into the wild to help conserve the orchids on the endangered species lists. The epiphytes are the most cultivated orchids and require stringent prerequisites in regards to the light, humidity, and temperature.
Orchids are not very sturdy plants and their cultivation requires a constant tending and gardening. At times, they can be grown in artificially created environments with the help of semi-hydroponic mediums. These allow the orchids roots to function normally and allow the plant to be grown indoors within pots or water trays. Each type of orchid requires distinct temperatures, some prefer cooler temperatures and others flourish in temperate or tropical environments. Usually, the orchid is allowed to reach a certain age and size on the branches of a tree; it is then transplanted to a pot with a semi-hydroponic culture. Nearly all species of orchids can be grown in this way. Future flowering of the plants can be prevented by denying the required warmth.
The orchids are spoiled due to the most common fault of over watering. Hence, maintaining a good drainage system of the pots and plant beds is essential. The watering rate for healthy growing orchids should be once a week allowing ample time for the potting mixture to dry out completely between irrigation intervals.
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