Orchids: Houseplant needs are ‘unique’ and ‘must be treated carefully’ – top care tips

Gardeners' World: How to care for houseplants

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Orchids can seem like challenging plants to look after, but if following the correct guidance, they can be extremely low maintenance. Known for their ability to last for several months at a time, orchids are often given as gifts and make the perfect houseplant, but how do you look after one?

Experts at Baby Bio® explained: “Orchids are wonderfully delicate houseplants that have been firm favourites in households for years thanks to their beautiful blooms which can last for months.

“Yet, it’s no secret that they have specific requirements and therefore must be treated carefully, a reputation which has caused many plant enthusiasts to be wary of owning an orchid.

“The key to orchid care is all in the environment!”

In their natural habitat, orchids either grow on trees or on rocks.

The experts added: “Most orchids therefore naturally grow high up in the rainforest treetops on rough bark rather than on the ground in soil.”

This means orchid owners should try to “mimic” this environment.

Orchids should be potted in bark-based compost to help with aeration and drainage.

Bark-based compost can help prevent the plant from becoming waterlogged.

DON’T MISS:
Mrs Hinch fans ‘easy’ cleaning trick to get oven looking ‘brand new’ [COMMENT]
David Domoney shares ‘easy to care for’ houseplants [VIDEO]
Grass care: How to create a ‘healthy lawn’ this winter [EXPERT]

Baby Bio® experts continued: “While they are susceptible to overwatering, orchids get most of their moisture from the air and therefore prefer humidity.

“Mist the foliage or aerial roots daily or place the plant next to a try of wet pebbles to increase air humidity.

“Consider placing them in rooms that are naturally more humid, such as the bathroom or kitchen.”

They also like bright areas of the home, although they should avoid being placed in direct sunlight.

The popular houseplant is also susceptible to burning if in direct sunlight.

The experts explained: “Most orchid owners will admit that getting their plants to repeat bloom can be extremely difficult.

“Their nutritional needs are unique and need fertilising both when in bloom and dormant.”

Orchid owners can feed their plant with Baby Bio Orchid Feed with every water for “the brightest blooms”.

Baby Bio® experts added: “Once your plant’s flowers have fallen, you can encourage it to rebloom the following season by pruning the whole flower stem and continuing to care for it as usual while it lies dormant.

“Remember that there are many species of orchids, so each should be treated according to its requirements.”

Moth orchid varieties are recommended for beginner houseplant owners.

This is because they are easier to care for than the other varieties. 

Source: Read Full Article