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Orchid Phalaenopsis - care in a pot at home. Caring for orchids in a pot at home Orchid flowers how to care

Modern stores offer everything you need to create favorable living conditions and long flowering. It is important to follow the correct care and breeding steps: the correct pot, morning watering, spring-summer top dressing, rare transplants, temperature and light conditions.

If you were given an orchid in a pot or you bought the plant yourself, it will be important to learn how to care for this rather capricious flower and how to monitor its health. depends on the type of flower, on what substrate it grows in the store, as well as on what it was fed with.

Important: Any species of orchids develop favorably at a temperature of 18 to 27 degrees during the day and 13-24 degrees at night!

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Orchid requires care different from houseplants. There are several distinguishing criteria.

  1. Transparent pot. It is easier to control the state of the root system in it, whether it is rotting. A healthy plant has light green or pearly roots.
  2. Special substrate. The plant grows in a special substrate consisting of several components:
    • bark;
    • sphagnum moss;
    • peat;
    • Styrofoam;
    • expanded clay.
  3. Irrigation requires soft, melt or rain water, boiled or settled. You can not water the orchid with running water.
  4. For the proper growth and development of an orchid, moisture is needed, regular.

Read more nuances about the conditions for keeping an orchid.

Tips for beginners on how to properly care for a flower at home

Proper plant care involves features depending on the time of year, type of flower, flowering.

in winter

How to care for different types - differences

Differences in care also depend on the type of plant. Each species requires a special approach.

Phalaenopsis

The most common type. It is important to observe the temperature from 16 to 24 degrees. The humidity level is desirable 40-50%, lighting 9-10 hours on a shaded window. Watering - by immersing the pot in water. Top dressing in winter - once a month. In the summer, weekly during watering. The substrate must contain bark without peat and foam.

dendrobium

The main rule in care is the difference in temperatures in winter and summer. In summer, the temperature regime is from 18-25 degrees, in winter 12-18. The humidity level required is higher than for phalaenopsis. Additional moisture is needed, aquariums or wet pebbles. Irrigation mode - regular. Top dressing during watering during the flowering period. The substrate consists of bark and moss.

Cumbria

This species is demanding on lighting. Light is needed at least 12 hours a day. If there is not enough lighting in winter, it gets dark. A temperature difference is also required. 13-16 degrees at night and 17-23 during the day. The substrate is preferably bark, coconut fibers and coal. During the flowering and dormant periods, care requirements are different.

Actions before and after flowering

During the blooming of the buds, the orchid requires special attention.:

  1. Even during the formation of buds, watering should be increased by 2 times.
  2. During the flowering period, the temperature at night should be increased by 5-7 degrees.

Actions after flowering:

  1. After flowering, you need to cut off the old peduncle.
  2. Feed the orchid with mineral fertilizer.
  3. During the dormant period, watering is reduced, the plant must gain strength for new peduncles.

A practical guide for beginners from A to Z

There are several points that are important after the purchase.

Adaptation

Immediately after purchase, it is better to keep the orchid apart from other house plants.. Do not feed or water for two weeks. The orchid must get used to the new microclimate. After this time, you can rearrange the pot on the window.

Pot selection

The best container for an orchid is a plastic transparent pot. Plastic does not allow the plant to dry out or vice versa to rot. It is convenient to use and durable. A transparent container allows you to control the state of the root system of the orchid. It shows how moisture is consumed, how the substrate dries. The main thing in an orchid pot is to ensure the outflow of moisture, airing the roots, and safely extracting large roots that extend beyond the pot.

The substrate for the orchid needs a special. These plants do not grow in the ground. It consists of bark, moss, foam plastic, expanded clay, charcoal.

Transfer

After adaptation, some flowers require a transplant. It is not necessary to process the roots or leaves.

During a normal adaptation period, the orchid activates its defenses. Transplantation is necessary for the plant for proper dew and the formation of the root system.

You need to pull it out of the pot, let the roots dry out and plant in a suitable substrate. If the orchid is immediately planted in the substrate, transplantation is not required for about 2 years.

Lighting

The lighting determines whether the plant will bloom. With a lack of light, the leaves will stretch and darken, there will be no flower stalks. Orchids prefer a lot of diffused light. Direct sunlight can cause burns. If direct sunlight falls on the flower, the plant needs to be darkened.

In autumn, the activity of the sun decreases, and it is not necessary to darken the plant. A dormant period begins, in which new flower stalks are laid. Daylight hours should be at least 10 hours. In winter, in our latitudes, additional lighting with lamps will be required.

Temperature

Particular attention should be paid to the temperature difference between day and night. But, almost all types of orchids feel great at a temperature of 18-27 degrees during the day and 13-24 degrees at night. Find out more about air temperature, as a guarantee of orchid health.

Watering and spraying

Orchids do not tolerate stagnant moisture. With an excess of moisture, the roots can rot and the leaves get wet. And the plant tolerates the period of drought better than high humidity, since the roots are able to nourish the liquid for future use. Enhanced watering is required only for some species, as well as during the period of ejection of peduncles and directly flowering.

The best method is to immerse the flower pot in a container of warm water. Required. From a special spray bottle, in the morning or in the evening, when the sun is not active, the orchid is irrigated with warm settled water. In winter, spraying is also needed, especially when the heating is turned on and the room is dry.

During the flowering period, you need to ensure that water does not fall on the buds and flowers.. It is better to irrigate the top layer of soil and leaves.

Advice: In winter, at low temperatures and short daylight hours, the plant does not need abundant watering. During the dormant period, it is also necessary to reduce watering to a minimum.

top dressing

Orchids do not need constant. This is necessary during the period of intensive growth and flowering. Top dressing should be applied when watering every 2-3 weeks. Fertilizer should be special for orchids. Do not apply fertilizer intended for other flowers.

reproduction

There are several ways to propagate orchids. This is reproduction by children, layering and vegetative. Reproduction by children is reproduction by new small plants that appear on the plant. This usually happens with a large amount of nitrogen.

If babies appear, you can wait until the roots appear, carefully separate from the main plant and plant in a separate pot. Reproduction by layering requires the construction of a greenhouse over the bent part of the stem. A leafless shoot in a greenhouse needs to be moistened, kept warm, and soon buds will appear, and then new plants with roots and leaves.

After the roots appear, young plants must be separated from the mother shoot, transplanted into a separate pot and kept in a greenhouse for some more time.

Vegetative propagation consists in dividing a large plant with a powerful root system into several different plants. Separated plants need to be watered and sprayed a little until new leaves and shoots appear.. This is a sign that the plant has taken root and feels good.

All about the consequences of improper cultivation

Basic Mistakes

  • Wrong watering. You can not water the orchid from a watering can. It is better to water by immersing the pot in water.
  • sunburn on leaves. This happens if the plant is exposed to direct sunlight. better on the north, west or east sides of the window. If this is not possible, then shading is required.
  • High temperature level. In summer, the leaves may soften due to increased air temperature. In winter, due to the proximity of the heater. It is necessary to ventilate the room more often, but avoid drafts.
  • No temperature difference between day and night. For orchids, it is important to lower the air temperature at night. When this does not happen, there may not be flowering.
  • Unsuitable substrate. The substrate must be chosen based on the type of orchid. It is unacceptable to plant a plant in the ground. Long airing and drafts can be reflected negatively and the plant will throw off all the leaves. When airing, you need to remove the pot from the open window, especially in the cold season.

The main signs of improper care are:

  • wrinkled and lethargic leaves;
  • yellowing;
  • spots and dark spots;
  • growths, root rot;
  • lack of flowering;
  • shedding leaves.

Diseases and pests of orchids

The consequences of improper care can be the development of diseases or pests on a weakened plant..

The main diseases of orchids:


The most common pests are:

  • worm;
  • scab;
  • whitefly;
  • spider mite;
  • nematode.

The number of orchid species is very large, but there are rules that apply to almost all of their varieties. Consider the main features of caring for orchids in a modern apartment.

Introduction

The orchid was cultivated about three thousand years ago in Southeast Asia. The ancient Japanese and Chinese used it as a medicinal plant. This flower came to Europe at the end of the 18th century. For two hundred years, the number of species of orchids has exceeded 30 thousand.

Currently, thanks to the work of many breeders and botanists, it is possible to grow and care for an orchid at home. You should not start growing this flower at home without familiarizing yourself with the basics of its cultivation, since the plant will most likely die.

Purchase

A plant such as an orchid requires the creation of special conditions for its maintenance. But, if everything is done correctly, there should be no problems with it. Proper care of a flower implies knowledge of its lifestyle and some features.

Abundance of choice

It is desirable to carry out the purchase in the warm season - in spring, summer or early autumn. Before purchasing a plant, you need to carefully examine its root system: orchids are almost always sold in transparent pots, so there will be no problems with this. At this stage, a simple visual inspection and mechanical verification of the strength of the roots is sufficient.

Visually, the roots should be uniform, without cracks and dried areas. The strength of the roots is tested by gently rocking the potted plant. If the plant is held poorly, its roots are weak; a strong root system does not cause the stem to wiggle.

The root system of a healthy plant

Leaves should not have yellow patches. It is better not to buy plants with a large number of yellow leaves: this indicates a disease of the plant or its malnutrition. It will be possible to go out, but this will require a significant investment of time.

An equally important issue is the shape of the leaves and their mechanical properties. In a healthy orchid, the leaves should have more or less the same length/width ratio and be firm and resilient. If some of the leaves are noticeably thinner or wider, and some of them are sluggish, this means that the plant has recently been ill and is not worth buying.

In some cases, in order to give the plants a more spectacular appearance, they are specially overfed with nitrogenous fertilizers when they are sold. This gives them a very cheerful look, however, this plant will most likely not bloom in the next few years. If the leaves have a pronounced glossy sheen, this is a fairly accurate indicator of the recent application of a large amount of nitrogenous fertilizers.

Also, you should not buy orchids with leaves that have a large number of the following unpleasant signs:

  • mechanical damage
  • spots of different colors on the leaves
  • dents and wet areas

Some orchids have a so-called pseudobulb (bulb on the stem). In no case should it be wrinkled or lethargic.

Pseudobulbs

Naturally, the plant should not have any pests or traces of their vital activity.

In addition, you should pay attention to some additional nuances:

  • The pot must have a tag with an exact indication of the species / subspecies of the plant or its hybrid. Orchids can vary greatly in terms of conditions, so you need to know exactly the name of the flower that is being purchased.
  • If the orchid is sold with props, they must be clean, free of any traces of fungus or mold.
  • If a blooming orchid is purchased, not only the leaves and roots, but also the flower of the plant should be examined for pests.
  • It is advisable to find out when orchids were purchased for sale, since it is risky to purchase a plant that has been living in a store for more than a month. Who knows how they took care of him? Problems that have arisen with improper care will not be immediately noticeable, since the appearance is not always a guarantee of his health.

It may seem that there are too many rules for buying, however, it is better to approach the issue of acquiring it seriously. I would not want to spend a lot of effort and time because of one small mistake, without achieving its flowering.

Primary adaptation of orchids after purchase

Caring for orchids is not an easy task, so once you have one in your home, you should take a number of measures to increase its survival. This is necessary so that the plant can recover as quickly as possible after transportation and adapt to new conditions. Houseplants can affect each other in different ways, therefore, it is necessary to ensure that neither existing houseplants harm the orchid, nor vice versa.

Transportation

Transportation of the plant should be taken care of before buying it. An orchid can hardly be called a compact plant, so it will be problematic to transport it, unlike violets, for which a small bag is enough. You should not transport it by public transport, it is better to use a private car or taxi.

Prepared flowers for transportation

It is necessary to transport the plant by holding it in your hands, and not putting it, for example, in the trunk; so when you go shopping for a flower, ask someone to help you. To avoid mechanical damage to the leaves, it is advisable to wrap them with thick paper. If transport is carried out at low temperatures, the plant should also be packed from above and below.

Quarantine

This procedure is necessary in order to timely identify possible pests that, both can be brought with an orchid, and are on your home plants. For this purpose, the purchased orchid is placed in a kind of "quarantine" for 2-2.5 weeks. This does not mean at all that it needs to be covered with a cap or film - just put it in some separate place, isolated from other colors.

An empty window sill (not on the sunny side) or a separate piece of furniture can act as such a place. The distance to the nearest plants should be at least 2 meters. The ideal option would be to place the flower in a separate room.

The plant must be left alone for a while:

  • do not allow him to stay under the direct rays of the sun;
  • do not feed;
  • do not water.

These requirements are mandatory even for light and moisture-loving colors. At the same time, the plant will be, as it were, in a kind of “hibernation”, from which it must be gradually removed.

Plant in quarantine on a shaded windowsill

As the quarantine draws to a close, you need to begin to attach the orchid to the light, exposing it for more and more time on the windowsill illuminated by the sun. On the first day - for an hour, on the second - for two, and so on. It is advisable to start watering at the end of the first week of quarantine, but it should not be plentiful - just lightly moisten the roots with warm water.

flower transplant

The plant is not recommended to be transplanted immediately after purchase or at the end of quarantine. The substrate in which the orchid is initially located allows you to postpone this procedure for several months. However, if the flower was purchased planted in peat moss (sphagnum), it must be transplanted.

In addition, a transplant is performed if one of the following reasons occurs:

  • There is little room for roots in the pot;
  • Many roots are intertwined and interfere with each other; dead roots appear;
  • The substrate is excessively saline;
  • There is mechanical damage to the pot or roots;
  • The surface of the substrate was covered with a coating.

Transplantation is carried out as follows:

  • The orchid is removed from the container, and this is done in such a way as to minimally injure the root system.
  • The old substrate is carefully cleaned.
  • Rotten and dry roots should be cut with scissors at a right angle; after that, the remaining root system is washed with running warm water.
  • At the bottom, a fresh substrate is poured into a new container and an orchid is placed in it.

Root pruning during transplantation

Next, you should fill the entire space between the roots with a new substrate, and its level relative to the stem must be brought to the same level as it was in the previous container. The transplanted orchid is watered with a small amount of water and placed in a shaded place for 3-4 days.

Choice of lighting

Not only the vegetation of orchids, but also their flowering depends on proper lighting. With sufficient light, flowering intervals of 2 to 6 months can be achieved with regular repetitions every year. If the lighting is not enough for the flower, then it will not only not bloom, but may even die.

Lighting when caring for orchids at home should meet the following criteria:

  • Scattered light must be used. Point sources, even in large quantities, are not very useful for orchids;
  • The use of direct sunlight is undesirable. In this case, the plant may get burned, especially in the summer;
  • When using natural light, the plant needs to be darkened. For this purpose, frosted glass, translucent plastic or a special mesh are ideal;
  • They like long daylight hours - from 10 to 12 hours. If the geographical location does not allow them to be illuminated naturally during such a time, artificial lighting is necessary. The best option is to use diffused light from fluorescent lamps;
  • In autumn, when the sun is no longer able to burn the plant, shading is not used. As a rule, it is during this period that orchids begin to slow down their life rhythm and go into a state of rest.

An example of artificial lighting

Orchids should not be placed too close to lighting lamps: heat radiation can also burn the leaves!

Ambient temperature for orchids

Florists have an informal classification of orchids depending on the temperature that these plants prefer. Proper care requires strict adherence to the temperature regime for each of the groups. When combining several types of plants in one place, the temperature factor must be taken into account.

In order for the plant to grow, temperature fluctuations within 5 ° C from the recommended range are allowed. However, optimal vegetation and successful, long flowering are possible only at natural temperatures for this species.

In this case, options are possible when plants of the same temperature group will require different conditions, for example, in illumination. In this case, more light-loving plants should be placed closer to light sources. You also need to consider the size of the leaves of some species so that they do not create excessive shade for other plants.

Comfortable conditions - the key to abundant flowering

thermophilic

These orchids are native to the tropics or jungle. The temperature for their successful development should be between 15°C and 33°C during the day and between 15°C and 28°C during the night. At the same time, daily temperature fluctuations should not exceed 5°C. Such plants are recommended to be placed on the southern windowsills, providing for the scattering of light, or any other protection from ultraviolet radiation.

These types include:

1. Malagasy star

It has large white flowers and a citrus scent. Temperatures below 10°C are detrimental to her. The plant prefers low light and high humidity.


2. Dwarf vanda

Prefers temperatures above 25°C and plenty of light. When flowering, it produces many inflorescences of a bright orange hue.


3. Dendrobium Bullen

The plant is native to the Philippines and requires bright light and plenty of water. Its feature is a long growing season and a slight "drying" of the stems in the fall; in the spring, the stems and leaves are restored. The optimum temperature is around 22°C.


4. Phalaenopsis

It is one of the most beautiful and widespread orchids. Flowers are pink, white-pink or yellowish. Normally feels at temperatures from 22 ° to 25 °C. The temperature must not be allowed to fall below 21°C. One of the few orchids that can grow well in sphagnum.

Thermophilic, Phalaenopsis

Medium temperature plants

These orchids grow in the colder part of the tropics and subtropics, as well as in mountainous tropical regions. They do well at temperatures of 18-22°C during the day and 12°C to 15°C at night. Plants of this type are sensitive to direct sunlight, so they are best placed near western windows.

Among medium-temperature plants, the following popular species can be listed:

1. Cymbidiums

They have large, beautiful flowers of various shades. They come from China, Japan or Australia. Comfortable temperatures are in the range of 16-20°C. Depending on the species, it may require a different amount of moisture.


2. Miltonia

They have one of the widest temperature ranges for orchids. Can normally tolerate temperatures from 12°C to 23°C. However, it does not tolerate drafts and the bright Sun.


3. Odontoglossums

Mountain orchid. The most thermophilic (for flowering) of this group. For successful flowering requires a temperature of 20-22°C, however, it is able to survive even when the temperature drops to 8°C. Does not like temperature fluctuations during the day. Requires a lot of water.

Medium temperature odontoglossum

Plants that prefer cold temperatures

Grow in the subtropics or highlands. The temperature during the day is 15-18°C, at night - 12-15°C. Caring for such orchids is not very difficult, however, some species require a specialized approach, since they have a temperature limit not on the lower, but on the upper value: at temperatures above 18 ° C, they begin to fade. Plants of this group do not like bright light, they grow well and develop at a distance of about a meter from the eastern, northern or western windows.

Characteristic representatives:

1. Paphiopedilums

Another name is slippers, obtained due to the characteristic shape of the flower. The flowers are very showy, usually variegated. Most types of slippers are cold-loving, they feel good at temperatures of 14-16 ° C, although there are also medium-temperature representatives. Sometimes, during hot temperatures, the top layer of the substrate in pots must be covered with a layer of sphagnum.


2. Already known phalaenopsis, but cold-resistant

They have comfort temperatures 7-8°C lower than those of heat-loving counterparts. Otherwise, the cultivation technique and features are the same.


3. Lelia

Native to South America. Feels good at a temperature of about 15 ° C. If the temperature rises above 24 ° C, it may die. Photophilous, daylight hours should be at least 10-11 hours. It has a characteristic five-petal flower of various colors.

Lelia, cold-loving orchid

Watering orchids

Orchid roots do not tolerate stagnant water. Some orchids (such as Phalaenopsis and Paphiopedilium) require a dry substrate and only water when it dries out. Others, such as dendrobiums, need moist soil. In any case, the orchid tolerates drought more easily than waterlogging.

All orchids, without exception, need intensive watering only during flowering. Excessive moisture of the roots in another period leads to their decay. On the other hand, leaving plants without moisture is undesirable - its leaves may wrinkle and begin to dry out.

It is necessary to water with soft water. Settled rainwater is best suited for this purpose. But, it is possible to water with ordinary boiled water. During the summer, water once every 2-3 days.

In winter, the frequency of watering decreases - once every 6-7 days. In any case, the criterion for the start of irrigation is the drying of the topsoil.

Plants are watered as follows: a pot with a plant is either placed for 5-10 minutes in a container (basin or bucket) with warm water or simply watered with a watering can with a fine mesh. After watering, it is necessary to put the pot on a special grid so that the water is completely drained through the drainage holes.

Watering by immersing it in a basin

Care during flowering

Flowering requires a slight improvement in the conditions of orchids. This is because the plant needs more energy to produce flowers. Features of caring for orchids during their flowering are as follows:

  • enhanced watering; it is recommended to water the plant with a warm shower or a watering can with a fine mesh with a water temperature of at least 35 ° C; after watering, the growing point of the flower must be cleared of water to prevent it from rotting;
  • the temperature of the content of the orchid during flowering rises by 5 ° C;
  • the plant needs feeding; the fertilizer used must exactly match the plant; "Overfeeding" is unacceptable, follow the instructions exactly.

Phalaenopsis buds.

After flowering, it is necessary to cut the peduncle (by the time it dries completely) to the very base.

Block breeding of orchids

Many flower growers strive to bring home conditions for keeping orchids as close as possible to their natural conditions by placing them on materials that mimic forophytes. This technique has become increasingly popular in recent years.

Since growing trees at home is a rather problematic task (especially if you use it only as a support for an orchid), then any materials to which a plant can be attached can be used as a support. It can be a snag, some kind of thick branch, or just a large piece of bark; pine or oak bark, part of a cork tree, tree fern, etc. can be used. The size of the block is selected depending on the variety and its dimensions.

On a hanging rope

This method of growing orchids has many advantages.. In particular, the roots of the plant dry out after several tens of minutes after watering, which reduces the likelihood of their decay. It is equally important that the roots can receive a sufficient amount of air, and indeed, are in almost natural conditions, which has a positive effect on the appearance of plants.

On the other hand, it should be understood that with such a cultivation of orchids, the level of humidity in the room where they are kept must be high enough, since complete drying is harmful to the roots. Therefore, it is necessary either to grow orchids in a place where high humidity will not spoil the room, or to organize a kind of greenhouse with an isolated atmosphere for the plants.

A compromise option in this situation would be the use of sphagnum as a kind of "gasket" located between the orchid and the block. From the outside, the roots can be covered with bark or coconut fiber to retain the required amount of moisture.

In order for water not to condense and stagnate on the leaves and flowers of the plant due to high humidity, when block breeding, the leaves are placed down. The orchid itself is attached to the block with a fishing line or a thin coarse mesh.

Orchid on a block made from a piece of bark. Leaves point down

It is forbidden to fertilize plants that are in the "rest" period.

Stimulation of flowering in orchids

Achieving flowering in an orchid is a very difficult task. Flower buds are formed about once every two months, but the mechanism of their “activation” does not always work. And the point here is not only in the special conditions of detention or care for him.

Sometimes it turns out to be a very bleak picture: for several years, almost ideal conditions have been created for the flower, it feels great, there are no pests on it, and so on, but at the same time it does not bloom. Or her flowering is not going at all as planned (small or sluggish buds and flowers, a stop in bud development, and so on). This leads to despair of many flower growers, and they forever refuse to breed orchids.

It is especially unpleasant that the reason for the lack of flowering may not be obvious and is hidden in the distant past of the plant (for example, hypothermia or a fungal infection). It is quite possible that the plant may never bloom, no matter what measures are taken.

There are several methods of stimulating flowering that allow you to quickly (literally in a couple of weeks) check whether the orchid is capable of flowering and fruiting, or if it is no longer worth messing around with, leaving it forever in the row of deciduous plants.

These methods are not applicable to all plants and not at all times. Flowering stimulation is only possible for mature and non-diseased plants that have at least a month passed since the end of their previous flowering, "hibernation" or quarantine. Let us consider in more detail what methods are used to stimulate flowering:

Stimulation by temperature change

A similar method is suitable for all epiphytes; consider its application on the example of plants of the middle temperature range, as the most common. The sequence of actions in this case will be as follows:

  • As soon as the warm season is established (with a night temperature of at least + 16 ° C), the orchid is taken out for the night to fresh air in the garden. Residents of cities can be taken out to an unglazed balcony (if the latter is glazed, open a window or window and put it closer to them).
  • During the day, the plant is brought into the room. This method allows you to achieve the maximum temperature gradient for the flower during the day. If there is no desire to expose the flower to such an “extreme”, you can leave it on the balcony or in the garden around the clock; the only thing to worry about is the lack of direct sunlight.

This mode will allow the plant to receive a lot of light and heat during the day, and cool well during the night.. The result of this will be the enrichment of the plant with carbon dioxide, from which it can make sufficient reserves to build flower stalks. The duration of such procedures should be about 10-15 days.


The first orchids, according to scientists, were recorded on Earth 130 million years ago. Although the real spread was about 3-4 thousand years ago, in China and Japan. The orchid at that time was considered a medicinal plant, as Confucius mentioned in his writings.

In Europe, orchids appeared relatively recently, about 200 years ago. During this time, the number of orchids reached 30 thousand species.

The history of orchids is full of myths and legends. As one old legend says, an orchid appeared from the fragments of a broken rainbow. Another legend says that a beautiful orchid grew in the place where Aphrodite lost her shoe. The orchid is a symbol of love and rebirth.

Thanks to botanists, it became possible to grow this exotic flower at home. We’ll make a reservation right away that caring for an orchid at home without special knowledge will give you a lot of trouble, and most likely you will lose your copy. But, if you familiarize yourself with the features of care, your beauty will delight you with her appearance for a long time. Well, let's start.

For the normal growth and development of orchids, the right lighting plays an important role. When choosing lighting for an orchid, you need to be guided by the rule: orchids need a lot of diffused light and in no case direct sunlight. If the orchid has enough light, it will delight you with its regular flowering, but if not, then the leaves will gradually take on a light green color, stretch and turn yellow.

In summer, when the intensity of light radiation is high, the orchid needs to be darkened in direct sunlight. This is necessary first of all so that it does not get a leaf burn and gradually adapts to bright light after the winter period. Matte film or plastic is perfect for darkening.

In autumn, when the intensity of natural light decreases, blackout can be omitted, during this period the dormant period begins at the orchid, shoots ripen, flower buds are laid.

In addition to illumination for a home orchid, daylight hours play an important role. A normal day for an orchid is 12 hours. If the duration is less than 10 hours, then artificial lighting is necessary for the orchid.

It is best to use luminaires with fluorescent lamps.

temperature for orchids

All orchids can be divided into three temperature groups.

  • thermophilic plants

Orchids of this species are native to coastal rainforests and plains. These include (phalaenopsis, dendrobium and some types of catley). These species require warm conditions all year round. The optimum temperature for orchids of this species varies between: summer day 15 - 32 ° C and winter night 15 - 18 ° C. The daily difference should not be more than three to five degrees.

  • medium temperature plants

These species grow in the middle belts of the mountains of the tropics (odontoglossums, miltonia). These species require cooler conditions. The optimum summer daytime temperature for these species ranges from 18-22°C, and the winter night temperature is 12-15°C.

  • Cold-loving plants

The birthplace of such orchids is the highlands or areas with a subtropical climate (Australian dendrobiums, most paphiopedilums, many lelias). The optimum temperature for these species will be: summer day 22 ° C, winter night 12 - 15 ° C.
Almost all types of orchids that you received as a gift or purchased in flower shops will feel great in the temperature range: during the day +18 +27 ° С, at night + 13 ° С + 24 ° С.

Do not forget that one of the necessary conditions for flowering orchids is to observe the difference between day and night temperatures.

Watering is a predetermining factor in the successful growth and flowering of your beauty. In nature, the vast majority of orchids are not in water and do not tolerate prolonged stagnation of moisture. Watering orchids at home comes down to creating conditions for the plant that are close to real. To do this, you need to know what species your orchid belongs to. Phalaenopsis, Paphiopedilum, Odontoglossum, Cymbidium always prefer a slightly moist but not wet substrate, but the soil for Oncidium, Dendrobium, Cattleya should be dry before watering.

In addition, the intensity of watering is also influenced by factors such as temperature and humidity, lighting intensity, pot size, substrate composition, seasonal vegetation phase.
Orchids are epiphytic plants, so they can tolerate the drying of the soil for a short time.
But with systematic non-irrigation, the orchid will begin to wither and wrinkle the leaves, and with an excess, there is a high probability of root system rotting and yellowing around the leaf perimeter.

It is desirable to water the orchid with soft water. The ideal option would be pre-settled rainwater in summer and melted water in winter. You can also boil tap water.
The temperature of the water for irrigation should be 2 - 3 degrees warmer than the surrounding air.
In summer, the orchid is watered 2-3 times a week, when the outer layer of the substrate dries up. In winter, watering is reduced to a minimum of 1 - 2 times a week, a slight wrinkling of the pseudobulb will serve as a signal for towing.

An orchid planted in a pot is watered from above, and in blocks or baskets it is immersed in water for 3-5 minutes. In both cases, it is necessary to allow excess water to drain, in no case to allow it to stagnate.

Fertilizer for orchids

It is necessary to feed the orchid only during the growth period no more than once every two to three weeks with special fertilizers "Bona Forte, Greenworld, Pocon". The main thing is not to overdo it (observe the proportions indicated on the package).
The orchid does not tolerate the concentration of mineral salts in the substrate, to avoid this, during the feeding period, rinse the substrate with clean water, alternating feeding and washing every 1 to 2 weeks.

Fertilizer for orchids can be purchased at a flower shop. Do not use fertilizers intended for other plants to feed orchids. Do not fertilize the orchid during the dormant period and the cold season.

In the ideal case, fertilizers for orchids are not required at all, since the flower receives all the nutrients from the substrate, but only if you transplant (change the substrate) once every 2 years. Experts have proven that excessive feeding of orchids reduces immunity, and the plant is more susceptible to diseases and pests.

You were given an orchid as a gift, and it quickly faded? Almost everyone is like that. Making an orchid bloom for a beginner grower is not an easy task, as we already know an orchid is a plant that requires care.

Let's take a closer look at what factors determine the frequency of orchid flowering and how to achieve orchid flowering at home.

When purchasing an orchid in a flower shop, ask about its age, orchids usually begin to bloom at the age of 1.5 to 2.5 years.

  • The first most influencing factor on orchid flowering is the length of daylight hours. For each instance, there is a certain length of daylight hours, which allows you to fully form flower stalks. Compliance with this factor serves as a signal for laying flower buds in an orchid. A lot of time can pass between the process of budding and the formation of a peduncle, you should be patient.
  • The second factor is compliance with the difference between night and day temperatures. The difference should be in the range of 5 to 7 degrees.

If after that the orchid did not bloom? There are several more ways to make an orchid bloom at home.

  • Lowering the temperature to +16 degrees for two weeks.
  • Reducing watering (changing the habitual mode).

When you achieve flowering, the orchid will delight you with its beautiful flowers from 2 to 8 months, depending on the type and number of flower buds. During the flowering of orchids, watering is doubled. After the orchid has finished blooming, collect dry buds and start the feeding cycle.

If you are engaged in the cultivation of orchids and have already imbued with all its features, you can safely propagate your favorite copy. Propagation of orchids at home is a task for an experienced grower. Orchids are propagated by: dividing large plants, side shoots, apical cuttings, pseudobulbs, babies, seeds. You can read more about this here.

Phalaenopsis orchid transplant

Phalaenopsis orchid does not tolerate transplantation with the destruction of the soil coma (substrate). This is due to the fact that during destruction, root hairs are damaged, which grow densely and envelop the substrate, thereby receiving nutrients and moisture. Therefore, if the substrate has not yet accumulated a large amount of mineral salts, has not lost its structure, and the plant feels great in it, then it is better to transfer it to a larger container. At the same time, fill the free space with a new substrate. During transshipment, the orchid is planted at the same level at which it was in the container before transshipment.

It is better to transplant after flowering is completed (in summer or late spring).

Reasons to Transplant a Phalaenopsis Orchid:

  • The volume of the old container is small for a flower
  • Interweaving of living and dead roots
  • Substrate salinization
  • Container damage
  • Formation on the surface of the substrate

Orchid transplant

Carefully remove the orchid from the pot, trying to damage the root system as little as possible (you may have to cut the pot). Release the roots from the old substrate, cut off the rotten and dry roots with clean scissors. Gently rinse the roots with clean water. Pour the substrate into the new container at the bottom. Place the orchid in the pot and carefully fill in any gaps between the roots with new soil. Do not cover the growing point of the orchid (top) with the substrate, it should be on the surface. Moisten the soil a little and place the orchid in the shade for a few days.

How to prune an orchid at home without damaging it? The peduncle can be cut off completely at the base or partially at the top where the flowers were. Each orchid has sleeping buds, and depending on the length of the peduncle, there can be about 3-4 of them. Each of the sleeping buds can give a new lateral peduncle or children.
To learn how to trim orchids at home, you can watch the following video.

Diseases and pests of orchids

Diseases and pests in orchids appear in most cases due to improper care. If you have repeatedly neglected the rules of proper care, then your copy is susceptible to a number of diseases, which can be determined by the following signs.

  • flabby leaves: the cause may be a damaged root system or non-compliance with the temperature regime.
  • Cracks along the middle of the sheet: the cause may be a sharp temperature drop after watering or mechanical damage.
  • Bumps, growths, holes, black spots: the cause may be a burn from direct sunlight.
  • Castings rot and dry: the cause may be soft-bodied mites located in the middle of the sockets. To combat them, use acaricides.
  • On the reverse side of the leaves there is a small silver cobweb: the reason is a spider mite. Leaves and flowers begin to turn yellow and then may rot. To combat them, use acaricides.
  • Orchid stops growing, blooms poorly: The reason may be a colony of nematodes on the back of the leaf, which feed on the sap of the plant. To combat them, use nematocides.

Orchid care video


By following all of the above rules, you guarantee healthy growth for your exotic flower.

Exotically beautiful tropical orchid flower looks beautiful in any interior. In order for a plant to please others with its flowering, it is necessary to properly organize care for it, and if you do not make mistakes in care, then it will live long enough and will delight the grower with its flowering.

Growing conditions

In order for the plant to develop well and increase the vegetative part, it needs to create comfortable conditions for keeping it. It is necessary to observe a certain temperature in the room and the illumination should be such that the plant does not burn out. The parameters for the cultivation of orchids have already been determined for a long time, and they must be remembered so as not to destroy the plant.

Temperature

For favorable cultivation of the plant, the temperature must be within certain limits, on average 22-26 ° C. The exact indicators of the temperature regime depend on the variety, deviations in any direction can be fatal. It should be borne in mind that in the homeland, orchids practically do not encounter temperatures below 15-16 ° C.

If the temperature reaches 30 ° C and above, the orchid begins to experience severe overheating. At this time, moisture evaporates very strongly from its leaf plates, and the new one does not have time to enter, and the leaves at this moment lose turgor and wrinkle. This leads to their exhaustion.

Air humidity


Ideally humidity should be 70-80%., such as it is in the homeland of a tropical beauty.

But in our apartments in the summer or during the heating season, it is 40-50%.

Humidifiers or jars of water placed near orchids will help.

Important! Without the necessary moisture, the orchid will not grow and produce a flower arrow.

Lighting


The orchid prefers diffused sunlight. If there is not enough lighting, then the trunk is pulled out, and the leaves acquire a lighter shade.

With a lack of lighting, a flower arrow will not appear, and small flowers will bloom on an already formed branch. Even with a lack of light, the buds will crumble.

Too much sun exposure will cause burns. Brown dry spots will appear on the leaves and petals that are not treated. When the burn takes up most of the leaf plate, it dies off.

When is support needed?


Some types of orchids grow to a height of more than 50 cm, and so that in these cases the stem does not break, it will need support.

Also, some species of orchids grow quite long meter-long peduncles.

They also need support. You can buy them at garden centers and shops.

Choosing a place to put


The place should be sufficiently lit with diffused sunlight, but not burning the plant.

If the house has a sunny southern window sill, then it is great for cultivating orchids in the winter.

But already at the end of April, care must be taken to ensure that the gaining strength of the summer sun does not burn the leaves. Therefore, the flowers are rearranged from the southern window sill deep into the apartment. Because even on a windowsill covered with white paper, the plant will get a strong overheat.

The north window is suitable in the summer, but in winter, especially if there are trees outside the window, the flowers will need to be illuminated with special lamps for plants.

How does it look in the interior?


The flower fits beautifully into those interiors that are made in oriental style.

Such living rooms and bedrooms with orchids become airy, as a variety of clouds of flowers decorate the design, making it elegant.

It will also look good with Chinese-style trim.

The orchid itself can decorate any design with its appearance, as its silky tenderness delights a lady of any age.

Important! The main thing is to learn proper care so as not to destroy the plant within a month after purchase.

Care after purchase at home


Immediately after purchase, the flower must be placed in a quarantine zone for 2 weeks to make sure that it is completely healthy.

Since the orchid is in the transport soil, the grower needs to know that there is something under the neck of the plant that retains moisture well:

  • Moss sphagnum;
  • Peat glass.

These components dry out for a long time and during transportation they help to survive the time without watering. But already standing in the store, an inexperienced seller can flood the plant. Experienced flower growers advise that you first transplant the orchid, sacrificing flowering in a new bark or the necessary substrate, and only then quarantine it. They do this to make sure:

  • That the root system is healthy without rotting black spots;
  • Remove the peat glass;
  • Examine the roots for pests;
  • Planted immediately in the correct bark.

Flowering conditions

In order for an orchid to release a flower arrow, it must be provided with the necessary proper care. Flowering has a long period of 2 months to six months.

Therefore, in order for the orchid to bloom, certain conditions must be met:

  1. Need to know the age of the plant- a plant that is too young will not bloom, since it does not yet have internal forces for this. Different species start their first flowering in different ways, for some it begins at 1.5 years for others at 3 years. Phalaenopsis should have 5-6 leaves, Wanda and similar orchids should have 5-8 shoots, if there are fewer of them, and a peduncle has appeared, then the flower may not survive its recovery after flowering.
  2. Do not move the container with the plant- since the move itself will already be a noticeable stress for the plant, and if at that moment it decided to grow a peduncle, it may dry it out. It should be noted that if there is a need to move the orchid, a light mark must be made. The side that stands towards the light is marked, for example, with a match, and then putting it in a new place, put it with a match for lighting.
  3. Roots- you need to pay attention to them. They are involved in the process of photosynthesis and must always be healthy in order to nourish the flower with useful substances. If the roots are sick, then their resuscitation will be required and, naturally, the orchid will not be up to flowering.
  4. Lighting- should be sufficient to form a flower arrow. The light day of the plant should be 11-12 hours a day. If not, then you need to take care of the backlight. This is especially true in winter.
  5. Temperature- it should be noted that for the appearance of a flower arrow, it is necessary to organize a temperature difference between night and day. This difference is 4-6 degrees.
  6. Watering- it is done at the moment when the substrate dries out completely, since plants do not like waterlogging.
  7. top dressing- complex fertilizers for orchids are applied throughout the life of the plant: 1 time in 14 days during periods of active growth and flowering, 1 time per month the rest of the time.


How to care for flowering time?

During flowering you need:

  • Increase the amount of moisture supplied to the plant;
  • Gently continue top dressing;
  • Do not change the conditions of detention;
  • Do not move the container with the orchid.

What to do after flowering?

After flowering, a dormant period may occur, the duration of which depends on the variety of the plant (on average, from a month to four). At this time, care remains the same or changes dramatically, it depends on the climate in the homeland of a particular species.

During this period, you can transplant a flower, this will not disturb its peace. When the period is over, the flower will need top dressing specialized for this plant. This is indicated on the package, you can not feed others. And the fact that the dormant period is over will be indicated by a new growing leaf.

Important! All top dressings are made according to the instructions on the package. It is important to prevent a burn of the root system.

Transfer

Orchid transplantation should be carried out according to this recommendation:

  • The flower is taken out of the container and crushed, freeing from the substrate;
  • If the bark has grown to the root, it is not torn off, since the root can be cut off;
  • Soak the orchid in a stimulant, it can be succinic acid. For this, 1t. in a liter of warm water until it is completely dissolved;
  • The next step is to remove all that is rotten or dried out. After circumcision, all sections must be treated with wood ash;
  • An orchid is planted in a new bark with a fraction of 1x1 cm;
  • The first watering is carried out for 3-7 days, the delay is especially important if the plant had a lot of rotting places.

Important! When transplanting, strictly follow these instructions so as not to destroy the plant.


Landing

In order to plant a young orchid, a transparent plastic container of such a size is selected so that the root system enters well into it. Transparent walls will serve as a guarantee that the roots will participate in the process of photosynthesis.

The soil is selected according to the type of orchid plant. Epiphytic orchids need one bark and not a lot of sphagnum moss in the composition of the soil. For those orchids that grow in the ground, a ready-made substrate is purchased, consisting of the necessary components.

Landing Method:

  • Drainage is placed at the bottom from pieces of foam, perlite or small gravel;
  • They expose a flower, sprinkle it with moss and bark, filling the void between the roots;
  • The neck of the plant should be at the level of the surface of the substrate.

Important! Watering is done 3-7 days after planting, so that small wounds that occur when the plant is planted have time to heal.


reproduction

Orchid plants can be propagated by various methods;

  • The division of the bush;
  • Children who are located on:
    • peduncle;
    • trunk;
    • roots.
  • Seeds.

The latter method is not used by amateur flower growers, since it is quite difficult to germinate seeds, it is necessary to have practically laboratory conditions for their growth.

But there are general requirements for reproduction:

  • Only adult healthy specimens are propagated;
  • The plant must have many roots;
  • The peduncle for reproduction must be old;
  • Lighting should last more than 12 hours a day.


pruning

It is not necessary to cut the plant completely. Remove only faded flower stalks that have begun to dry out. Cut to the height that is still alive and 2 cm above the waiting kidney. From this bud, after a dormant period, a new peduncle or baby can develop.

Rejuvenation

Rejuvenation is carried out for monopodial orchids in the event that the orchid has greatly outgrown its capacity and looks ugly, having practically fallen out of the pot. She must be at least 5 years old.

Rejuvenation principles:

  1. We disinfect the secateurs.
  2. We cut off the top of the bush so that the trunk is at least 5 cm and there are many air roots.
  3. We leave the lower part in the container after a certain time, it will give children on its remaining stump.
  4. We plant the top according to all the rules given above in a new container.

Important! Experienced flower growers advise leaving 6-10 leaves on the cropped top.

Watering


You can water in any convenient way:

  • Spilling the substrate from the watering can;
  • By immersing the container in water.

The main thing in watering is the right composition of water. It should be soft and warm. Hard and cold water can shock the plant's roots and cause them to rot. Therefore, we pour prepared water into the watering can and water the orchid in such a way that water does not accumulate in the axils of the leaf.

When choosing the second method, a basin of such a size is selected so that the flowerpot with the plant enters it completely in height. Pour the prepared water into the basin and put the orchid in it for 20 minutes. After the expiration of time, we take out and let the water drain completely.

top dressing

Top dressing is carried out during the entire growing season of the plant. A growing young leaf will speak of this. Feed only with specialized fertilizers, which can be purchased at flower shops.

It must be remembered that when applying top dressing, one must act strictly according to the instructions given on the package and not increase the dose and frequency of top dressing. Since this may not only not benefit the flower, but may well destroy it.


Pollination

It is quite possible to pollinate a flower at home. To do this, pollen is transferred from the stamens to the pistil with a natural squirrel brush, and after a while pollination occurs, and seeds are tied.

After the pollination process, the flower wilts and the seed box gradually begins to grow. This growth continues for 5-8 months. When the seed box turns brown, this will indicate that the seeds are ready for sowing.

Diseases and pests


With improperly created cultivation, the flower is affected by various diseases that damage the leaves and roots:

  • Anthracosis;
  • Fusarium;
  • Leaf spot;
  • Various types of rot (brown, black, gray);
  • Root rot;
  • Mosaic of leaves.

You can also find various pests - scale insects, various worms, thrips.

Important! If you inspect your collection weekly, then you can notice the order at the very beginning and then it will be easier to treat the plant.

How to revive?

Depending on the problem, various types of resuscitation are carried out. If for any reason the flower has lost its roots, then they must be grown again and the flower must be treated with special fungicides so that there is no relapse.

If the problem is in the vegetative part, then the entire patient is cut out with sterile scissors, the rest is treated with an antiseptic and other drug, depending on the lesion that has occurred.

It must be remembered that it is easier to treat a small defeat than to save a completely affected flower without immunity.

Common mistakes

The main mistake of a beginner grower is unregulated watering. First, the flower is poured, fearing that it lacks moisture, and then they rush to the other extreme and begin to dry. It is important to find a middle ground and water when the plant needs it.

Not the right place. Very often the flower burns in direct sunlight and the leaves do not recover after that. It is necessary with the onset of heat to rearrange the flower away from the sun.

Answers to popular questions.

A novice grower always has a lot of questions about caring for a tropical beauty. Let's answer the main ones.

Why is it growing poorly?

If the plant does not throw out new leaves, then you need to decide on the right care. An orchid may lack light or nutrients when feeding. Or is it infested with pests.

Why does not give new shoots?

There are not enough nutrients or the flower is in a dormant stage.

How often does it bloom?

With good care, it can bloom 10 months a year.

Caring for orchids is not difficult, just this delicate flower must be treated with attention. When cultivating a flower, certain rules must not be violated, and then it will delight with magnificent long flowering.

The orchid is rightfully considered one of the most diverse plants on our planet, numbering about 30 thousand species and types growing in the wild. There is no need to describe in detail the beauty and dignity of this flower. Many flower lovers want to see this plant at home, however, most of them do not fully know how to care for an orchid at home, how to properly transplant and propagate. Despite the variety of these home flowers, there are certain general rules for care.

The orchid is considered a rather capricious and delicate flower, requiring the creation of certain conditions. However, caring for orchids at home is not difficult if you know exactly what and when to do it. In order to properly care for these flowers, it is necessary to have at least the most general idea of ​​\u200b\u200btheir lifestyle.
The acquisition of these flowers is best done in spring or summer.

You can take your time with a transplant, since an orchid in its substrate can grow for two years. During the period of adaptation to home conditions, the plant needs to be fed regularly. Immediate transplantation is required when the flower, when sold, grew in sphagnum moss.

Starting to care for a plant, it is very important to have the most complete information about its variety, type and features. Before buying, you should carefully examine the roots of the plant, which are very clearly visible through the transparent walls of the pot. If the flower does not sit well in a pot, then it has weak roots. You can check this by gently shaking the stem near the substrate, and if the orchid is firmly held in a pot, you can safely buy it.

One of the features of orchid care at home is its habit of insufficient moisture in the substrate and high humidity. Therefore, the root system of the flower is able to quickly absorb and retain enough moisture for a long time.

Orchids: care and reproduction at home

These plants are relatively easy to propagate. In order to get a full-fledged flower in the future, you need to know the main ways of propagating orchids artificially:

  • Reproduction by division of the rhizome of the flower. In many cases, this happens on its own. However, you can divide the plant yourself. To do this, the flower is removed from the pot, and its roots are cleaned of the substrate. The rhizome is cut through between the false bulbs. For disinfection, the rhizome must be sprinkled with charcoal. The resulting new plants need to be planted in separate pots.
  • Apical cuttings are suitable for propagating some types of orchids, where the nodes of the shoots are at pronounced distances from each other. For propagation, the shoot is cut off at the height of half the cutting with a disinfected knife. Before the cutting is placed in its own pot, the cutting site must be disinfected with powdered charcoal. This method is used for fast growing orchids, since all other species will develop into a normal plant within a few years and will require special care.
  • Side shoots can also serve as one way to propagate orchids. When such a shoot appears, it must be sprayed intensively so that it grows and forms roots. After that, the plant can be separated and transplanted into a separate container with preliminary disinfection of the incision site.
  • The seed propagation method is quite complicated, since orchid seeds are very small and do not have nutritious tissue. In order for such a seed to germinate, it needs an artificial nutrient medium created under sterile conditions. Seeds germinate from three to nine months, and it takes up to three years for a sprout to develop into a young plant. The first flowering of such orchids occurs after 2-4 years, and in some cases even after 10 years.

Care during the flowering period

In order to properly care for an orchid at home, it is necessary to take into account the characteristics of the flowering period. In spring and summer, with active growth, the orchid should receive as much direct sunlight as possible. During this period, new growth occurs until the opening of flower buds in the autumn period.

At the same time, it is necessary to ensure sufficient watering, as well as timely fertilization. A humid atmosphere should be maintained around the orchids by spraying the leaves with warm water.

In the presence of aerial roots, they should also be sprayed. The pots themselves are installed on expanded clay or fine gravel, and then, they are filled with water in a small amount. The room must be well ventilated to ensure efficient air circulation. Under favorable conditions, in the summer, the plant can be taken out to fresh air.

Avoid sudden changes in temperature and drafts. Before the beginning of flowering, watering the plant must be reduced. The flowering period of an orchid can last up to six months. Nevertheless, the time comes for the peduncle to wither, and then the question arises: what to do next? The answer is quite simple - to ensure proper care after flowering.

Flowering is over, what to do?

When the peduncle began to dry out a little, there is no need to rush to cut it off. For some time, it will serve as a source of nourishing juices for the whole flower. Only when the flower turns yellow, it is removed, and a stump, 2-2.5 cm in size, is left at the place of removal. Young buds may appear, which bloom over time.

In another case, the tip of the peduncle dries up, and subsequently a baby is formed. In some cases, if necessary, the peduncle is cut off. When cutting an orchid 1-1.5 cm above the dormant buds, re-flowering may occur. However, it should be remembered that the forced development of the old peduncle inhibits the formation and development of a new one.

Orchid: care after flowering

Caring for an orchid after flowering is not particularly difficult. At this time, watering is reduced and top dressing is reduced. If a transplant was made, then flowering may not be during the year. To resume flowering, the orchid pot must be moved to another place. It is possible that the rearrangement will have to be done several times, until the necessary comfortable conditions are created. In this case, constant and regular flowering will be observed.

How to transplant an orchid

Transplanting any flower is one of the most stressful moments in the life cycle. Most plants have a rather painful reaction to transplantation, this is due to the strong adhesion of the roots to the substrate and dishes, therefore, the risk of damage is very high. Transplanting is recommended in cases where the root system of the orchid begins to overflow the pot.

In general, it is better not to perform a complete flower transplant without the need. It is much easier to move the plant to a larger pot without destroying the clump, or to carry out an unscheduled renewal of the substrate. Damage to the roots at rest is especially unfavorable for the orchid.

Some types of orchids, for example, dendrobiums, have a highly developed root system, which is why they have to be replanted every 1.5-2 years.

It is very important to properly prepare the substrate. You can buy a ready-made mixture in the store, but you can also prepare it yourself. As a rule, the composition of the mixture includes peat, chopped fern roots, fallen leaves (except willow), charcoal and pine bark. With proper preparation of the mixture, there is no need for additional feeding. The substrate must have a low moisture capacity, otherwise, excessive moisture can damage the flower. The most effective drainage should be at least 25% of the height of the dish.

When using a basket, its slots are laid with whole pieces of sphagnum moss. With a direct transplant, the substrate is poured in a slide, at the same time, the roots of the flower are slightly straightened. Voids do not need to be compacted so as not to damage the roots. If the orchid is weak, it is additionally strengthened with wire or synthetic threads. The transplanted plant is not recommended to be watered for 3-5 days until the wounds obtained during transplantation dry out and heal.

It is better to choose new pots for transplanting, there should be holes in their walls. The container must be washed well, and if necessary, boiled to destroy possible pests.

Feeding orchids: pros and cons

Top dressing of the plant is carried out only during its growth, with specially prepared fertilizers. This procedure is very important for flowering and is done about once every 2 or 3 weeks. At the same time, the amount of mineral salts should be minimal so that they do not accumulate in the substrate; it is washed 2 times a month with clean water. For a normal effect, a week of feeding should alternate with a week of washing the substrate.

How much light do you need?

Lighting is considered the main factor in the question of how to care for an orchid. It is the light that determines whether the plant will bloom or not.

During the development period, the flower requires the duration of daylight hours, ranging from 12 to 15 hours. In winter, the lack of natural light is compensated by the artificial light of fluorescent lamps.

Lighting should be bright, but diffused, avoid direct sunlight on the flower. In such cases, the plant needs to be shaded, otherwise it may simply burn out.

Watering the orchid correctly

Any orchid requires watering, especially during the development period, however, there is a widespread belief that overflow should be avoided. Underfilling for the plant is not so terrible and will not harm it. In summer, watering is done about 2-3 times a week, and in winter, in a calm state, the plant is kept in a slightly dried state. For irrigation, soft warm water at room temperature or slightly warmer is used. In any case, in the summer, the orchid requires more moisture than in other seasons and you need to navigate by the degree of dryness of the substrate.

Thus, an orchid is a delicate and capricious plant, difficult enough for a novice grower to care for at home. However, if everything is done correctly and all the recommendations are followed, then the plant is quite capable of responding to the care and care with beautiful flowers.

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