Blue orchids - myth or reality. Does blue orchid exist in nature? How to care for an orchid

Orchids, like any other exotic plants, are replete with a variety of shapes and shades. Including blue and blue species, which in themselves are quite capricious. By crossing different varieties, scientists have achieved the same color in hybrids. Caring for the latter is much easier than caring for their parents.

History of artificially bred species

The first artificial interspecific orchid was created back in 1856 by John Dominy, and 7 years later, he grew a hybrid of the two different kinds plants. The next step in selection was the method of growing this flower on special sterile media, which was developed by the American scientist Knudson in the 20s of the last century.

Thanks to her, it became possible to highlight the most remarkable properties of seedlings and develop them. Today, the number of artificially bred orchid species has already exceeded hundreds of thousands.

Sky-colored varieties

A triumph for breeders or a marketing ploy?

For the first time, the world started talking about the existence of such a phenomenon as the blue phalaenopsis orchid in 2011. First, a farm from South Florida presented an amazing orchid, and then the Geest Orchideeën nursery put its species on display. It would seem like a sensation!

But alas, in both cases the flowers were artificially colored with a special safe dye. But only in early 2013, a true blue orchid was presented at a conference in Japan- the result of long work by geneticists and breeders. The new kind was named Phalaenopsis Aphrodite.

However, many traders, knowing about the demand for unusual phalaenopsis, decide to give them their own desired color by injecting ink into the root, stem or peduncle. The trick works, the product sells successfully, but buyers are very surprised the next time the flower blooms white buds.

And this is in the best case: more often he simply dies from poisoning. Therefore, carefully examine the orchid. If only the peduncle is colored, then everything can be limited to the premature death of the bud. When injecting into other parts, there is a high risk of losing the entire plant.

Home care

Lighting and temperature

Since in nature flowers are accustomed to diffused light, then the plants will best take root on a western or eastern window. But it is not recommended to place the pot on the north or south side, since in the first case there will be a shortage of light, and in the second there will be an excess. Optimal temperature for orchid growth and development – ​​+25°С. And in order for the orchid to delight you with flowers more often, the nighttime temperature drop should be 5-10 degrees.

Important: If the temperature drops by 15°C or more, the plant may freeze and wither.

Humidity

Comfortable humidity for a flower – 50-70%. In winter, when the air becomes drier due to heating, it is recommended to spray once a day in the morning. You can also briefly place the plant in a tray with pebbles and water.

Watering

Filling the substrate with moisture is carried out in several ways. Firstly, by partially immersing the pot in warm water for 15-30 minutes, then the plant will absorb required amount liquids. Another watering option is to use a warm, low-pressure shower or a watering can.

For orchids, too much moisture is more dangerous than too little, so make sure the soil is completely dry before watering.

Top dressing

There is no need to feed a newly purchased plant.. But after a couple of months you should start fertilizing it. This should be done at least once every 4 weeks. The quality of flowering will depend on this.

Fertilize the plant only when the soil is moist, otherwise it can cause burns to the roots.

Transfer

If the roots of the flower have grown so much that they begin to displace the soil, then it’s time to replant..this is a very important procedure for the plant, which must be carried out as carefully as possible.

It is very important to choose the correct composition of the earthen mixture. Roots need good ventilation, and therefore the soil should include wood shavings and coal, moss, perlite or crushed stone.

Reproduction

If you want to start growing orchids at home, then below are 3 methods to do this.

Children

You can remove scales from a dormant bud using a sharp blade and then apply cytokinin ointment. Make sure that the kidney itself is not injured.

Or put wet sphagnum moss on the bud and then cover it with polyethylene. Soon the desired children and the first roots appear.

Cuttings

The peduncle is cut off at the base and divided into parts 3-4 centimeters long. There should be a dormant bud in the middle of each cutting. The sections are sprinkled with charcoal powder and then placed in a warm damp place. The same sphagnum moss is an excellent source of maintaining moisture.

Advice: You can do it easier. When the peduncle has stopped blooming, it is cut off and placed in a solution with fertilizer. It is necessary to provide the cutting with enough sunlight, then after 1-2 months shoots will appear on it.

Dividing the socket

If the plant is large and healthy, then it usually has an additional rosette with its own roots. In this case, a young rosette is separated with a sterile knife or pruning shears, treated with ash or charcoal, dried, and then planted in new pot. Watering is carried out on the third day after transplantation.

Pests and diseases

Conclusion

Finally, some advice for those who still dream of purchasing a blue orchid. Certainly, exotic flower better to buy at exhibitions. And if you decide to adopt a tinted phalaenopsis, then do not forget to examine the injection site and do not take a doomed plant. But even when the color fades, take good care of your new pet, and then it will delight you with its beauty for many years!

Magnificent orchids fascinate with their beauty and the subtle luxury of their spectacular flowers. These amazing plants impress with their rich color palette. Their white, purple, burgundy, cream, yellow, pink flowers they look simply incredible.

Although representatives of the orchid family with petals of heavenly blue are present on store shelves, the naturalness of their color sometimes raises serious doubts. Many people are concerned about the question: are there blue orchids in nature, nurseries, the answer to which will be given in the framework of this article.

Flowers of plants belonging to the genus Phalaenopsis cannot have a shade of sky blue due to the lack of the corresponding gene. Enterprising businessmen have learned to give phalaenopsis the desired tone by coloring. After the blue flowers fade, previously processed specimens form buds, the colors of which were originally inherent to them.

This fact should not upset orchid lovers, since they may prefer other species (Vanda, Cattleya). These plants actually have petals whose color is as close as possible to indigo. As for phalaenopsis, it goes on mass sale after undergoing special processing.

Vanda Orchid

Many gardeners will certainly be interested in the blue Vanda orchid, the petals of which often have a blue-lilac, violet-spotted color. It is worth paying attention to the capriciousness of this plant. For example, a blue orchid with pink veins needs to maintain a special microclimate with high humidity air, good lighting, daily watering. Only an experienced gardener can cope with its cultivation.

By providing the plant with proper care, you can hope for its abundant, long flowering. Wanda inspires scientists to create numerous hybrids with very unusual colors. In particular, breeders have bred a pink-blue orchid that captivates with its delicate beauty.

Cattleya Orchid

Cattleya will be more unpretentious, whose petals also do not have a pure, uniform color. As a rule, this lilac or blue-blue orchid blooms if it is placed under straight Sun rays in the presence of a significant difference between day and night temperatures.

For most plants, staying in such conditions can end in failure, but Cattleya likes it. A plant that receives maximum light exhibits more intense petal color. This orchid needs high air humidity, but you should refrain from spraying it.

Blue Phalaenopsis Orchid

As mentioned above, the blue flower does not exist in nature. Also, it cannot be found in the nurseries of modern breeders. It is quite possible that in the future the situation will change radically, since work on creating flowers with azure color is ongoing, and their results are promising.

Successful marketing move

As part of an exhibition event held in Florida, USA in 2011, Silver Vase demonstrated a blue phalaenopsis. After 3 months, another blue orchid, called Phalaenopsis Royal Blue, was presented to the public at the Dutch flower competition Flora Holland by the nursery Geest Orchideeën. The plant received an award in the Sales Concept category.

It is interesting that the above producers did not intrigue the public with the secret blue color petals of the flowers shown. In their interviews, they talked about the specifics of processing orchids. For their coloring, a patented technology is used, the methodology of which is not subject to disclosure. It is only known that flowers are exposed to a special environment created using elements of natural origin that do not harm the plants.

The blue phalaenopsis orchid demonstrated to the world by the listed manufacturers is not a selection hybrid. It's kind of successful marketing ploy and nothing more. Abroad, such flowers are used as spectacular decor, and after withering they are disposed of.

Japanese miracle - blue orchid

Japanese scientists, specialists from Chiba University, have gone much further. At an exhibition held in Okinawa in 2013, they managed to amaze the sophisticated public. The result of their work, a blue orchid, aroused everyone's admiration.

To create this floristic miracle, the gene of another plant, the Asian Commelina, was introduced into the Phalaenopsis Aphrodite species. Flowers new orchid relatively small (about 5 cm in diameter). Up to 30 buds can be formed on one peduncle. This orchid is considered exclusive and is not yet available for sale.

What do our flower shops offer?

Relatively recently, a blue phalaenopsis orchid appeared in our stores, which immediately began to be in great demand. The plant is much more expensive compared to conventional species. Unfortunately, the joy of owning this luxurious orchid, passed off as Phalaenopsis Royal Blue, soon gives way to disappointment.

Very often before going on mass sale unscrupulous sellers into the trunk, roots or peduncle of a plant in a makeshift way Injections of a chemical coloring solution are administered (they often use regular ink). As a rule, white orchids are subjected to the staining procedure, on the petals of which the pigment is distributed most evenly

Such an event negatively affects the health of the plant. It becomes weakened due to such severe stress. As a result, admiring the inflorescences of a rich heavenly shade does not last long. After a month, they begin to fall off, and the phalaenopsis itself may die after some time.

Many sellers do not try to hide information about plants from buyers by placing warning stickers on flowerpots. The relevant information is printed in small print, and people ignorant of this issue they simply don’t notice her. Subsequently, they find themselves dissatisfied with the transformations that have occurred with their favorite flowers.

What should you pay attention to before buying an orchid?

Before making a purchase at a flower shop, you should ask the seller about the blue orchid plant you are interested in: whether it is painted or not, and inquire about the method of processing the epiphyte.

It is also advisable to subject the specimen you like to a thorough inspection.

The identified traces of injections on the roots and growing point indicate a high probability of death of the phalaenopsis. If an inspected blue orchid in a pot has injected flower stalks, then it has a chance of survival in the future if provided with proper care.

Another coloring option is to water the epiphyte with water containing dissolved pigment. In such cases, both flower petals, leaves and roots will acquire a shade of azure. The survival of the plant can be judged after assessing the identified damage.

Blue Orchid Care

The sky-hued phalaenopsis will shed its flowers over time. Since blue orchids do not exist in nature, and scientists have only just begun work on breeding such hybrids, one should not expect that in the future the plant will again form flowers with azure petals. It is quite possible that next time a blue-white orchid will bloom on the peduncle, and after a certain time the buds will begin to become lighter.

There is no need to attempt injections on your own using blue or ink to correct the situation. This will only lead to disease and death of the plant. It is much better to admire flowers that have their natural color.

Inspection of a phalaenopsis flower

Having received a blue phalaenopsis as a gift or purchased it, you should try to inspect it thoroughly in order to promptly identify existing damage, areas of rot, mold, and pests. Particular attention should be paid to the root system.

A plant with healthy roots that have a rich green color should not be replanted. For a specimen in need of resuscitation, it is necessary to remove dry, rotten shoots and peduncles and place it in a new flowerpot.

Transplanting a plant into another pot

When caring for blue orchids, you should purchase a special substrate for the affected flower. It is also possible to independently prepare the soil mixture.

Will need to mix pine bark(5 shares) with charcoal (1 share). It is prohibited to use rotten or poorly disinfected material. The bark collected under the trees must be washed, boiled (at least 15 minutes) and then dried.

The phalaenopsis will need to be carefully removed from the pot and its injured, dried, rotten rhizomes removed. Can be used as a dusting for cut areas. charcoal, ash, ground cinnamon.

When caring for a blue orchid at home, you need to try to disinfect the flowerpot. The pot is thoroughly washed and then dipped in a manganese solution. If you decide to purchase a new flowerpot, you should give preference to special transparent containers produced for orchids.

It is very important that the landing container has holes in the walls and bottom.

A drainage layer (2 - 3 cm) of expanded clay is placed at the bottom of the pot. A third of the prepared substrate is poured on top of it, on which the plant is placed in vertical position. After this, the orchid is covered with the remaining soil mixture. It is prohibited to use old soil extracted from under the damaged flower. Such a substrate probably contains aggressive substances that can harm the plant.

The transplanted phalenosis is guaranteed to recover if a optimal microclimate. The plant will feel better under indirect sunlight. He also needs to ensure the maintenance temperature regime with the following values: during the day + 25 ... + 30 ° C, at night + 16 ° C. In the room it is necessary to create a humidity of 30% and good air circulation.

Balanced nutrition for orchids

Phalaenopsis needs periodic feeding (once a month) using balanced fertilizers, which can be purchased at a specialized retail outlet. The priority is dosed nutrition of the epiphyte, since too many useful elements will lead to softening of the top, and their deficiency will affect the inhibition of flowering.

Regular watering of the plant

The orchid needs regular watering. At higher air temperatures, frequent irrigation is performed. There is no need to allow stagnation of moisture, which can lead to rotting of the roots and death of the plant. Spraying phalaenopsis is not recommended, as it causes unwanted accumulation of droplets in the recesses of the leaves.

Blue Orchid Diseases

The gardener will need to closely monitor the health of the reanimated plant. The following factors signal an orchid disease: a radical change in the color of the leaves, rotting roots, and the absence of developing buds. If signs of infection are detected, the epiphyte should be treated in a timely manner.

Blue Orchid is a popular “brand”

It is noteworthy that the issue with the blue orchid is relevant not only for flower growers. For example, on sale you can find many cosmetics that contain blue orchid oil: gels, creams.
It is advisable to use them only after studying the annotation on the packaging and finding out which particular representative of the orchid family we are talking about.

A beautiful exotic fish, the blue orchid aulonocara, lives in the waters of Kande Island. It often becomes a real decoration of modern aquariums. The fish received such an original name because it appearance evokes associations with an exotic flower.

Flowers with this color do not exist in nature; their DNA does not have a gene that gives this color to the petals. Then how do they end up in stores and our homes?

First, let's figure out whether blue orchids even exist in nature or for sale? Phalaenopsis with blue flowers does not exist in nature, and this cannot be found among hybrids. Where then do these exotic beauties periodically appear in flower shop windows?

Often, looking at the blue-eyed beauty of an orchid, flower growers do not restrain themselves and buy the flower they like.

The stem pleases the eye throughout the entire period, then it enters a period of rest and, with due care, the phalaenopsis again expels the peduncle.

And here the shock begins: instead of blue or bright blue flowers in front of the eyes there are flowers at best gray-blue color, but most often the orchid pleases regular white ones.

At a loss, novice flower growers try to find mistakes in care, but they shouldn’t do this.

Blue flowers are obtained using simple coloring , which is carried out according special technology. When watering, the paint is simply washed out of the plant, and it begins to bloom with natural colors.

In most large flower shops, information about this is posted near the flower shelf. Some sellers, on the contrary, try to present the painted standard as something supernatural and sell the plant at a very inflated price. At the same time, the quality of the coloring itself leaves much to be desired.

And it all started in 2011 at the Florida Tropical Plant Show. It was there that the phalaenopsis orchid with blue flowers was put on public display for the first time. Manufacturers did not hide the fact that their standard is painted. They patented the process technology and still keep it a closely guarded secret.

Three months later, a tropical beauty with a similar color was presented in Europe. It was shown by Dutch breeders; the fruit of their development is also a colored standard.

Photo of an orchid painted blue.

Interesting! In Europe and the Americas, dyed flowers are treated more favorably. They are perceived as a cut bouquet that must stand for a certain time. Then it is simply thrown away or sold much cheaper.

Hybrid varieties

Phalaenopsis orchids with a blue tint of flowers still exist; there are stems with lilac-blue, pale blue, violet-blue flowers. The most famous varieties with blue color on the arrow are:

• blue became known in 2013 after a group of Japanese breeders demonstrated their new transgenic trunk. It is based on the Aphrodite variety, to which the “blue” Commelina gene has been added;

The world's first blue phalaenopsis, Aphrodite blue, obtained through genetic engineering.

The following varieties are dyed blue:

Interesting! Phalaenopsis Aphrodite blue is still almost not common among gardeners. Its cost is quite high and only a few can afford such luxury.

In addition to these, there are many more that are subjected to the dyeing process. But they look less impressive.

How to choose in the store?

A purposeful or spontaneous trip to a flower shop for a blue orchid and the euphoria from it should not prevent you from choosing the right standard. After all, sometimes they try to deceive us, passing off a cheap analogue as an expensive thing. This is also possible with flowers.

Expensive Phalaenopsis Royal Blue can be replaced with a cheaper analogue own production. Staining of orchids is sometimes carried out by the sellers themselves., for this use regular blue ink.

The procedure is performed using a syringe; the orchid is simply pricked with a color carrier. But not every plant can tolerate such manipulations.

Choosing phalaenopsis with blue flowers in the store, It is worth paying attention to the following points:

• before making a purchase, pay attention to the appearance of the trunk; its leaves and roots should have a natural color;
• the solution to be painted should be applied precisely to the peduncle, so the plant will suffer the least amount of damage;
• carefully inspect the substrate, it should also have a natural color;

In addition, you can lightly run your fingers over the petal, the paint should not remain on your hands.

Important! It is worth understanding that blue phalaenopsis will require more careful care, since coloring and changing its “place of residence” will already become a great stress for it.

Coloring at home

You can make your phalaenopsis blue yourself, and you will save a decent amount of money and choose exactly the shade of blue that you like. This procedure is simple, even a beginner can carry it out without any problems. The main thing is to adhere to this scheme:

1. First we choose a plant. It is best to take, healthy, without and;
2. The next step is to select a coloring element. It is better to give preference to special means for coloring flowers or, at worst, food coloring. The final result depends on what blue orchids are painted with;
3. The process ends with the choice of a staining method and its immediate implementation.

After all this the stem will need to be given a little more attention, since any dye will negatively affect the condition of the plant.

Phalaenopsis in the process of staining.

Coloring It’s best to do it when it’s fully grown and the flowers on it gradually begin to bloom. This period will be the most favorable; the coloring pigment will quickly get into the flowers and minimally damage the trunk.

Advice! Do not carry out the dyeing procedure at every flowering, this may take the last of the plant’s strength and it will die.

Methods

There are two ways to change the color of phalaenopsis:

1. Easiest to produce Regular watering of the trunk with colored liquid. You will notice changes in color quite soon, but the dye will also quickly leave the stem. Loss of color will begin immediately after watering is stopped;
2. The second method is less humane: in order to get phalaenopsis with blue flowers, you need to give him “injections” of color. Typically, such injections are carried out into the roots, stem or peduncle of the trunk. After this, marks usually remain on the plant that will be noticeable for a long time.

Advice! If you decide to use the second coloring method, give “injections” into the peduncle. This way you will do the least harm to the orchid.

Features of care

Care after coloring phalaenopsis standard, water as the substrate dries, feed twice a month, and spray with a spray bottle. But There are still some nuances:

• if the coloring was carried out by watering, then it is advisable to carry out the subsequent ones with the addition of a dye to preserve the achieved color;
• a painted phalaenopsis purchased in a store will receive double stress, harmful substances There will also be a change in microclimate inside the plant. For such a standard It is better to choose a place in partial shade, regularly and minimally.

Traces of dye on a painted orchid.

In all other respects, colored trunks are no different from ordinary phalaenopsis; they need 12-14 hours of light and humid air.

Useful videos

Find out the secret of blue orchids from the video:

Watch the video on how to choose a blue phalaenopsis:

From this video you will learn everything about the necessary care:

The following video talks about coloring phalaenopsis:

Conclusion

Most orchids have blue flowers have artificial origin , the color will gradually fade, but the memory of it will remain with you forever. Whether or not to buy such a standard is up to you, but you can save a little and create such a masterpiece with your own hands.

The blue orchid is a rare and very attractive flower. The plant is found in India, Thailand, and Southern China. The flowers have a diameter of 9 centimeters. The shades of the petals are varied - from blue to red-violet.

An orchid can also turn blue when the petals are stained with chemical dyes or as a result of the dye being introduced into the stem. But such flowers cannot be called real. In nature prominent representative Blue orchids are the Vanda variety. Cattleya should also be noted. And Phalaenopsis is painted, - blue flowers this species does not.

Looking for the blue orchid

Features of the Vanda variety

The royal flower looks attractive, and its care should be appropriate. If you do not have knowledge of growing the plant, Wanda is unlikely to take root. The flower has many hybrids that are convenient to cross.

Is Phalaenopsis blue?

Blue specimens of the Phalaenopsis species are not found. But you can buy a blue flower, which is easy to care for. In the photo the plant looks very attractive, the smell is weak, not spicy. Phalaenopsis blooms for six months; the color of the petals may vary.

Features of the Cattleya orchid

Cattleya only gets positive reviews, since it is not too capricious, it does not require special care, the plant looks charming. At home it blooms well, the palette of petal shades is varied.

Care depending on window location

• East window. In order for a blue plant to feel good on an eastern window, it should be placed in this place in the summer - from May to September. In winter, it is better to move the orchid to the south side. If you decide to leave a flower on the east window, winter time it is necessary to provide it with additional lighting.
• North window. The blue snow leopard orchid and other types of the blue palette, located on the northern window, will not grow without artificial lighting, since partial shade is observed here all year round. It is lighting that has a direct impact on how the plant develops.
• West window. Caring for a flower located on the west window is the easiest. It's sunny here, but not too much. Some lighting problems may arise in winter, but most often there is enough light.
• South window. Royal Phalaenopsis feels good on a south-facing window, but since the plant placed here is always in the active growth stage, it may get sick. Sometimes burns may occur on the leaves, so it is recommended to place the plant behind a curtain.

Royal flower: Vanda orchid (video)

Basic cultivation methods

When growing at home, it is important to choose the right container and substrate for the orchid. It must be remembered that the plant appreciates free breathing.

According to reviews, the flower whose roots were not damaged during transportation has a better chance of taking root. Even if the humidity in the room is low, if everything is normal with the roots, the plant will not die.

Not proper care in the form of too frequent watering may cause rotting of roots and stems. According to statistics, this error is the most common cause why orchids die at home.

Suitable for growing flowers different ways:

1. You can plant an orchid in a pot or coconut.
2. If there is no pot, you can place the flower in a black plastic basket, while the roots of the plant will hang freely. The presented method is suitable for growing in an apartment; it is often practiced in greenhouses and conservatories.
3. It happens that an orchid is planted in baskets made of twigs, slats, bamboo sticks, or in flowerpots.
4. You can place the plant on a block and decorate the roots.
5. It is allowed to place the flower in a regular glass vase.

What substrate will be required

As soil you can use sphagnum moss, bark coniferous trees. The choice of substrate is determined mainly depending on the location of the orchid. The more light a plant receives, the more moss it needs.

How to deal with temperature

The orchid will look like the picture if it is provided with the correct temperature conditions. It should be chosen depending on the type of hybrid. Optimal mode for maintaining a flower is +14 degrees at night, +25 degrees during the day. However, even in 40-degree heat the plant will not die.

Spraying

The orchid should be watered and sprayed, since it is grown mainly without a substrate. The outer parts of the plant, its roots, should be sprayed. The procedure should be actively carried out in the summer, when the air in the room is quite dry.

In winter, plants are sprayed once every couple of days. Moisture should only reach the roots. When liquid gets on the leaves and cores, these parts of the plant begin to rot and the leaves fall off. Rotting of the core leads to the death of the plant.

After each spraying, wipe the orchid with napkins. Instead of spraying, you can water the flowers in the shower. The water temperature should be about 40 degrees.

Features of care during the rest period

In fact, blue orchids only experience dormant periods when optimal conditions are created. First of all, this concerns lighting. How do you know if a plant has enough light? The easiest way is to look at the roots. If there is enough light, the roots will be in a state of active growth, and the flower will look bright and healthy.

If there is not enough light, the color of the leaves will not be as bright, and the tips of the roots will begin to shrink or become covered with white skin. This is how the orchid tells you that it has entered a period of rest and its metabolism has slowed down.

What to do in in this case? If you notice that the flower begins to enter a sleepy state, provide it artificial lighting in the evening from 18 to 22 hours. Such lighting will prevent the plant from “falling asleep” and reduce the risk of infections.

Blue orchids have appeared on sale relatively recently. They quickly found their fans and instantly became extremely popular. The blue flowers of phalaenopsis amaze not only with their bright colors, but also the unique color of the petals. However, not all orchid lovers know what the secret of the amazing colors of these exotic plants is.

Description of the variety and characteristics

Blue Orchid - rare tropical flower, which can be found in India, China and Asia. In nature, their representatives are such varieties as Vanda and Cattleya. Under natural conditions, they grow on trees, clinging to their trunks with powerful roots.

The Vanda orchid is a rather capricious plant. At home it is grown in special pots or glass vases. The orchid blooms for 2-3 months in spring and summer. The petals have various shades: blue to dark purple. Flowers reach a diameter of 9 cm. There are specimens with a strong aroma. Leathery dark green leaves are located on a cylindrical stem.

Vanda orchid prefers intense light. Therefore, it is grown on a southern window, shading it from the scorching rays of the sun. Thanks to Wanda, many hybrids with purple flowers. All of them are characterized by large buds, long leaves, strong aerial roots and thick stems. The inflorescence can have up to 10-12 buds. Royal orchid hybrids feel great at home.

A distinctive feature of the Cattleya orchid is its large, fragrant flowers. The palette of shades of its petals varies from dark red to bright purple. Along with last year's flower stalks, Cattleya forms new ones, growing in width. In this case, pseudobulbs appear on the plant, in which they accumulate nutrients and moisture. The orchid blooms for one month in the autumn winter period.

Is there a blue phalaenopsis?

Many people wonder if there are blue Phalaenopsis orchids. Often, owners of an unusual plant with blue flowers are faced with the fact that during the next budding they lose the richness of their shade and become pale blue or completely white. This phenomenon is due to the fact that phalaenopsis are painted blue with special dyes.

Not all flower shops hide the fact that plants are dyed. Labels with appropriate warnings are placed on orchids. But most often, information about flower coloring is hidden from the buyer. Subsequently, the happy owner of the strange plant remains disappointed.

Among the Phalaenopsis orchids there are no specimens with natural blue flowers. The right shade obtained by introducing a dye into plant tissue. Specimens with white flowers are subjected to such experiments, due to which the coloring is uniform. Gradually the dye is washed out, and the buds acquire their original color.

Coloring phalaenopsis blue is done in two ways:

1. Ink is injected into the peduncle, roots or leaves.
2. The plant is watered with water, after adding chemical dyes to it.

The second method of painting is considered more dangerous due to the toxic effect of paint on the root system. Chemicals used to change the natural color of the petals cause significant harm to the plant. After such experiments, the orchid will most likely die.

On a note!

Dyes do not always penetrate directly into the petals. Depending on the place where the chemical is introduced, not only flower stalks with buds, but also leaves and roots can be stained.

Flower sellers specially give the buds an unusual shade. Thus, they sell an ordinary orchid under the guise of Phalaenopsis Royal Blue for triple the price.

Is phalaenopsis purple?

Purple phalaenopsis includes a palette of shades from bright pink to purple. Some specimens may have a uniform color of buds, while others may have petals with an unusual pattern in the form of dots, stripes and spots. The most striking specimens of phalaenopsis with purple flowers are the following species:

• Schiller's phalaenopsis;
• Phalaenopsis equina;
• Phalaenopsis Luddemann.

They also attract attention with their unusual purple tint phalaenopsis “Elegant Debora”, “Spider Beauty”, “Little Zebra”, etc.

It is quite possible to purchase phalaenopsis with blue-violet buds, but not in flower shops. You can try to find rare plant at exhibitions. Determining whether a specimen is real or fake is quite simple: you need to find out the genus of the orchid and inspect the plant for damage from injections.

Is there a blue phalaenopsis?

Real blue phalaenopsis are very rare on the shelves of flower shops. But it won’t be difficult to purchase an exotic plant with blue buds. In nature, there are specimens of phalaenopsis with flowers of light blue, lilac, gray-blue or pink-blue color. In most cases, these are hybrids or species plants with small buds. Phalaenopsis blooms continuously for six months. The saturation of the shades of the petals may be different. The flower exudes a faint pleasant aroma.

Of the orchids in nature, the buds of the Vanda orchid have a blue color. But it is quite difficult to buy it. Experienced flower growers They know that phalaenopsis lacks blue pigment. Lilac shade buds are considered as close to blue as possible. The desired color is obtained using artificial dyeing. When buying such a tropical plant, you need to remember that it will soon cease to be an unusual specimen in the collection. Gradually the blue color will fade until the petals turn white.

The history of blue orchids

The world saw the blue orchid for the first time in 2011 at an exhibition of exotic plants in Florida. Phalaenopsis blue Mystigue was created by the Silver Vase orchid farm. Three months later, at the FloraHolland flower growing competition in Holland, the nursery “Geest Orchideeen” presented another specimen of orchids with blue flowers - Phalaenopsis Royal Blue. The creator of the unusual plant received an award in the Sales Concept category.

Manufacturers of blue phalaenopsis do not hide the fact that the shades of the petals are not natural and that the following flowers will be white. Patented technology is used during dyeing. Its details are not disclosed to the general public. The technique is that the flower is immersed in a special liquid, which consists of natural ingredients. Therefore, the procedure is absolutely harmless to the plant.

In 2013, at the Orchid Conference in Okinawa, Japanese breeders demonstrated the result of many years of experiments - new variety Phalaenopsis orchids with bright blue flowers. For experiments we used white orchid Aphrodite, into which the Asian Commelina gene was introduced, which is responsible for the production of blue pigment. Phalaenopsis does not have this gene. The new plant species is called "Phalaenopsis Royal Blue". The orchid's buds are small, but the blooms are abundant. However, this miracle of genetic engineering will not soon become available to amateur flower growers.

Olga

My first encounter with blue phalaenopsis was in a flower shop. A month after the purchase, the plant began to dry out, and only then did I notice traces of injections on the peduncle. Phalaenopsis was saved. It did not bloom for a long time, and then white buds began to form on the stem. The original specimen has turned into an ordinary orchid.

Evgenia

I bought the orchid because of the unusual dark blue hue of the buds. Later I learned that phalaenopsis are specially painted blue. Having examined the plant, I found an injection hole on the stem. The dye spread to the leaves, which gradually began to die. I became convinced that all the blue phalaenopsis were weakened and needed urgent help. The plant survived and pleased with delicate white flowers, which I like better than blue ones.

Vdalimir

At the next flower exhibition I bought a phalaenopsis with light blue buds. I have been growing orchids for a long time and I know that before purchasing they need to be inspected. Not finding any traces of injections, I purchased unusual plant. Although phalaenopsis has small flowers, the color is natural. Small buds form lush inflorescences, the contemplation of which brings a lot of pleasure.

Rules for caring for blue phalaenopsis

The problem is that unscrupulous sellers, trying to make extra money, paint the plant themselves. They pass off ordinary white orchids as blue phalaenopsis and sell them at a higher price. Often blue phalaenopsis dies due to poisoning by chemicals contained in the paint. Such a plant needs special care to keep it healthy and unharmed.

How to water a blue orchid

Watering orchids is closely related to the light intensity and air temperature in the room. In caring for tropical plants, the correct ratio of lighting and watering is of great importance. When growing phalaenopsis under conditions bright light The soil is moistened every 8-10 days. It is necessary to monitor the condition of the substrate and prevent it from overdrying.

To obtain good harvest, you need to use quality seeds. The most productive varieties can be ordered on the official website "Gardens of Russia". Big choice varieties for every taste.

On a note!

In cloudy weather, the plant consumes less liquid. Watering can be delayed to prevent waterlogging of the soil, which can provoke the development of diseases and the appearance of pests.

The water used to moisten the soil should be warm. The best way Watering is considered to be the use of a hot shower. In order not to damage the fragile roots and leaves of the orchid, the pressure should be kept diffuse and weak. After this procedure, the plant must be dried with paper napkins, because Stagnation of fluid in the leaf axils can lead to rotting. A hot shower promotes the active growth of phalaenopsis, awakens it from a dormant state, and stimulates flowering.

Watering can be done by immersing the flowerpot with the plant in a container of water. It takes 30-40 minutes to saturate the substrate with moisture. Do not water phalaenopsis with tap water. Pressure can wash away upper layer soil, causing the roots to be exposed. Watering orchids cold water leads to the death of roots.

Care after purchase

The purchased plant must be carefully examined. If injection marks are on the peduncle, the phalaenopsis will most likely survive. And if the paint was introduced through the roots or trunk, the orchid may die. After dyeing, the flower is in a state of stress. That's why it's so important to provide him with optimal conditions and proper care. At the same time, it is necessary to monitor general condition plants.

It is not recommended to replant the plant immediately after purchase. Blue phalaenopsis placed on a south window, providing it with diffused lighting. To prolong flowering, additional lighting is provided to the orchid in winter. Fluorescent lamps are used for illumination.

The air temperature in the room where the flower is grown should be +25-30°C. Place containers of water or an artificial fountain near the phalaenopsis to provide the necessary air humidity. Its indicators must be at least 70%. If the room is hot, the plant must be sprayed. It is not recommended to grow this tropical plant on a cold windowsill.

If the condition of the plant remains satisfactory, continue to care for it like other orchids. And if the phalaenopsis begins to drop buds, you need to carefully examine the roots and peduncle. The damaged stem is removed to chemical substances did not get into the roots and leaves. It is recommended to remove the plant from the pot and rinse the root system with water.

If there are pricks on the roots with traces of rot, it is necessary to urgently take the following measures:

• cut off the affected areas with a sharp knife;
• a severely damaged root must be removed at the base;
• Sprinkle the cuts with ash or crushed coal.

In case of distribution coloring matter The phalaenopsis root system is transplanted into a new substrate. With proper care, the plant will soon be covered in its magnificent white “butterfly” colors.

You should not try to return the flowers blue tint, pouring blue or ink over the phalaenopsis. This can completely destroy the plant.

Phalaenopsis with bright blue buds is just a successful marketing ploy, and not the result of the work of breeders. This species has no analogues of blue flowers in nature. The unusual color is obtained as a result of the use of special dyes. Whatever the color of the phalaenopsis, proper care and care will make it a wonderful decoration for any home.