Frequently Asked Questions

Are orchids hard to grow?

The short answer is no. Like any plant, orchids need light, water, air movement and food. The challenge to growing orchids is their diversity. They exploit every environment on Earth from the frozen northlands to the steaming jungle. To grow orchids successfully, you need to know what type of environment they came from.

How long do orchids bloom?

Certain species of orchids bloom for a day. Others bloom continuously once they reach adulthood. Most of the popular orchids fall in between these extremes. Cattleya types usually bloom for 2 to 3 weeks. Phalaenopsis bloom for 8 to 16 weeks. Paphiopedilums bloom for 6 to 12 weeks.

When do orchids bloom?

The prime blooming season is winter and spring. That said, in a large greenhouse with many species represented, something can be blooming all year long.

What kind of light do orchids need?

The type of orchid you're growing will determine how much light the plant will need. Cattleyas and most Dendrobiums will need lightly filtered light for 6 to 8 hours a day. Oncidiums and many orchid hybrids will need partial sun (lightly shaded sunlight all day) Phalaenopsis and Paphiopedilums will need partial shade ( no direct sun, shaded light all day).

How much water do orchids need?

Most orchids would like to be evenly moist, not wet. You always have a water tester handy -- your index finger inserted into the growing medium up to the first knuckle will tell you what condition the mix is in. If it feels damp, no water is needed. If it feels dry, water away! Water should flow freely through the mix and drain almost immediately.

Do orchids have fragrance?

Many orchids have very strong scents. Some are easily identified as floral, cinnamon, vanilla or bubble gum like. Others are unique to that particular orchid. Some orchids have nasty smells that attract flies and other carrion lovers. Beware of the orchid that has the color of rotting meat. It might smell like it as well!

Are orchids short lived?

Not in the least! With proper care and attention, most are very long lived. At the San Francisco Conservatory, a Coelygne pandurata that was collected in the 1860's still thrives and blooms. Through divisions or propagations, orchids discovered long ago still delight with their blossoms.

Do orchids need air movement?

Air movement helps to evaporate water around the orchids. Almost all orchids are epiphytes, meaning they grow on trees in nature. They've evolved to need air circulation to keep their roots and leaves healthy. Air movement prevents bacterial and fungal infections from forming as well.

What temperatures do orchids need?

There are three broad categories of temperature ranges for orchids:
Hot: 60 to 85 degrees. These include Cattleyas and Dendrobiums
Intermediate: 55 to 75 degrees. These include Oncidiums, most orchid hybrids, Phalaenopsis and Paphiopledilums.
Cool: 50 to 65 degrees. These include Cymbidiums, Odontoglossums, Miltoniopsis and Masdevallias.

Why did my buds fall off?

The main culprit in bud drop is a temperature fluctuation. Rapid changes in temperature around the orchid can cause buds to yellow and drop. The other reason to lose buds has to do with pollution. Smoking around your orchids is a big No No!! Sulfur dioxide and ethylene from smog and fumes from pilot lights on heaters or stoves are other sources of pollution that can cause bud drop.

Why are my orchid leaves turning brown and falling off ?

Old leaves commonly brown and fall off the plant. This is part of the plant's natural process. As new leaves and bulbs are produced, the plant uses the energy in the old leaves to help it create the new ones. Once spent, the old leaves yellow brown and fall off. If your new leaves are turning yellow or brown, check a number of things. How much light is the plant getting? Too much light for that particular species can cause yellowing. If the new growths are turning brown, you may have a rot problem. Water your orchids in the morning to help combat this problem. Check the condition of your mix (Has it turned to mud? Repot immediately if this is the case.). Remove the mushy parts with a sterile tool, repot into fresh mix and offer a prayer to the plant goddess for new growths!

My orchids are sending out roots all over the place. They look gangly and wild. What do I do?

Rejoice!! Your orchids are behaving exactly as epiphytes are supposed to behave. They love to send out roots to attach to the trees they evolved to live upon. Since they don't grow on trees in your home or greenhouse, your mission as an orchid grower is to encourage them to grow more roots and be happy when you see them everywhere. More roots mean more flowers!