Cultivation and management of orchids

Orchid is a very elegant plant with wonderful meaning. There are also many varieties of orchids. Many flower lovers find it very difficult to grow orchids when they first try to grow them. In fact, it is because they have not mastered the method. Let’s learn about the cultivation and management of orchids.

1. Basic requirements of orchids for the environment

Light: Orchids prefer warm and humid environments, avoid direct sunlight, and are suitable for scattered light. In April, light can be increased to promote growth, strong direct sunlight should be avoided in May, and after June, shade should be provided all day to prevent damage from the sun. At the same time, pay attention to rain and wind protection.

Fertilization: Apply fertilizer reasonably according to the growth conditions of orchids. Healthy orchids without diseases and pests can be fertilized regularly, while sick or newly planted orchids should delay fertilization. Avoid fertilizing during high temperature seasons; evening is the best time to fertilize. Chemical fertilizers are prohibited. It is recommended to use diluted liquid fertilizers and maintain regular fertilization.

Watering: Rainwater or spring water is preferred. If tap water is used, it needs to be left to stand overnight. When watering, avoid watering directly on the flower buds, and adjust the amount of watering according to the growth conditions of the orchid and the soil moisture. Broad leaves require more water, while small leaves require less. Keep the potting soil dry in the early growth stage, and increase the amount of watering after the new buds grow. Adjust watering frequency and amount according to the season.

Spray: In dry or hot seasons, spray to increase air humidity and lower temperature to meet the orchid's need for a humid environment.

Pruning: Prune sick and weak branches and leaves regularly, maintain good ventilation, remove excess flower buds, and keep 1 to 2 flower buds in each pot.

2. Key points for potted orchid maintenance

Flower pot selection: Choose a flat flower pot with a height of about 15 cm, and set multiple air holes at the bottom of the pot to promote root breathing.

Filling with planting material: Lay coarse sand on the bottom of the pot, cover the top with humus-rich soil, and plant the orchid seedlings with intact root systems.

Planting: After planting, water the plants to help them take root, and keep them in semi-shade to avoid high temperatures and exposure. The suitable growth temperature for orchids is 15 to 28 degrees Celsius. Start fertilizing after a week.

Fertilization: According to the growth conditions of orchids , pay attention to supplementing nitrogen fertilizers in spring and summer, such as compost, urea, etc. Phosphorus and potassium fertilizers are essential for orchid flowering and stem growth. Potassium dihydrogen phosphate and calcium magnesium phosphate fertilizers can be used.

Germination fertilizer: Use specific fertilizers to promote early and frequent sprouting.

Growth-promoting fertilizer: Balanced fertilization, with a focus on nitrogen fertilizer, applied once every half month.

Flower-boosting fertilizer: Promote the development of flower buds, make the flowers more numerous and colorful, and spray specific fertilizers regularly.

Pest and disease control: Use appropriate drugs to control common orchid diseases and pests to keep orchids healthy.

Placement and repotting: Orchids need to be repotted after many years of growth to refresh the soil and provide more space. Repotting is usually done in early spring, and depending on the size of the pot, repotting is done every 1 to 4 years. At the same time, clean up the old roots and leaves, and put tiles at the bottom of the pot to facilitate drainage.

The above are the key points of orchid cultivation and management. If you want to grow orchids well at home, understanding the growth habits of orchids and the key points of daily maintenance is the key.