Caring for a potted orchid at home. Secrets of growing orchids: everything you need to know

Plants in pots refresh the interior of an apartment or house. It is difficult to imagine a home without small islands of greenery on the windowsill. Exotic flowers, which are reminiscent of hot countries, are especially pleasing to the eye. Caring for an orchid at home requires special skills, since it is quite capricious. However, the result will exceed all expectations and will repay the efforts expended - the plant blooms for a long time and at this moment resembles an exquisite bouquet.

Features of the life of an orchid in its natural habitat

Orchids grow on every continent except the snow-capped Arctic and Antarctic. The largest number of their varieties is found in the tropics. These flowers love warmth and moisture.

Mentions of orchids can be found:

• among ancient Greek scientists who considered the plant medicinal;
• among the Indians, who brewed aromatic drinks from their pestle;
• among the peoples of Southeast Asia, who used them to drive away evil spirits from their homes.

There are more than 35,000 species of orchids. Flower color varies from white to purple and black.

Orchids are also divided into groups:

• land plants;
• underground;
• living on tree branches.

The most popular in flower shops is the Phalaenopsis orchid. IN wildlife it grows in China, Malaysia, the Philippines, in the foothills of the Himalayas and even in Australia.

It belongs to a group of plants that live on trees. Most of their roots float in the air, receiving moisture from it. Sometimes thickenings are formed on them, reminiscent of tubers, in which they accumulate nutrients.

Rules for caring for flowers at home

It should be remembered that Phalaenopsis was brought from warm countries, and therefore requires warmth and well-humidified air. This orchid clings to trees and grows in the shade of their crown, which hides the leaves of the plant from direct sunlight.

You need to stick a strong long stick into the pot, which will serve as a support. Ordinary soil cannot be used to grow orchids. Stores sell special soil for this flower.

Proper care of orchids at home is not difficult, you just need to follow the basic rules.

Correct lighting

As already mentioned, it is better not to place the flower in the bright sun in summer. It will scorch the tender leaves. The light should be diffused, so it is better to choose window sills facing east or west for the plant.

In winter and autumn, when the days are short and it gets dark outside the window early, special lighting is necessary, otherwise the leaves of the flower will begin to turn yellow and the buds will not bloom.

A tropical day lasts more than half a day, so you need to think about how to compensate for the lack of sunlight. For one flower, a 40 W light bulb is enough, installed so that enough light falls on the leaves and inflorescences.

Temperature

Caring for orchids at home is simple in terms of temperature control. The apartment is always warm enough, but there are two hazardous factors.

1. . It dries out the air sharply and after using it, you need to additionally spray the plant. Under no circumstances should you place an orchid under a running air conditioner.
2. Draft. The flower does not like hypothermia, so the plant should be removed from the windowsill when the room is ventilated.

If an orchid stops blooming, it needs a little stress. By reducing the daytime temperature to +12 °C, and lowering the night temperature by another couple of degrees, you can achieve bud formation. Having noticed them, you should not abruptly interrupt the previous regime.

It is necessary to switch to normal room temperature gradually so that the buds take hold and soon turn into buds.

Air humidity

Tropical climate is different high level humidity. The usual rate is 60 to 70%. In apartments and houses it is much lower, especially during the heating season.

Frequent spraying from a spray bottle will help maintain a microclimate suitable for the orchid. Moreover, the water should be room temperature and well settled. Moisten the leaves and stem, avoiding inflorescences, at least 3-4 times a week.

If the air is too dry, you can buy a humidifier and place it in the room where the plant is located. The device will benefit not only him, but also the people living in the apartment.

Regularity of watering

Caring for orchids at home involves a number of tricks. The flower can be planted in a non-standard clay pot, but in a transparent plastic one, through the walls of which the root system is visible. It is easy to make several slits in it and do not water the soil from above, but place it in a bowl with water for 5 minutes. So the roots will absorb required amount moisture, and its excess will not be created.

If the walls of the pot are opaque, the orchid should be watered as soon as upper layer the soil will feel dry to the touch. It is important not to flood the flower. In the natural environment, roots take the necessary amount of moisture from the bark of trees when it rains.

If too much water accumulates in the pot, the flower's roots begin to rot, causing the leaves to turn yellow and the flowers to drop.

Many people are quite successful in dealing with this problem. The orchid must be carefully removed from the ground and inspected. root system and cut off the rotten parts. It is better to replace the soil with new one, because the old one remains too wet and can negate all efforts to treat the flower.

In the cold season, watering the orchid should be reduced, and in the summer, on the contrary, the condition of the soil should be checked more often. If the orchid does not have enough moisture, all its leaves will become thinner, and the lower ones will turn yellow and fall off. When the regime is restored, it will quickly come back to life, but it is better to avoid such a situation.

Soil requirements

If indoor orchid belongs to the group of terrestrial plants, such as Cymbidium, then caring for it at home will be somewhat different than for Phalaenopsis. The composition of the soil for different types of these plants differs markedly.

Flowers growing on trees do not require soil containing nutrients, but the soil must allow excess moisture to evaporate quickly.

Best option– buy soil for orchids in the store and add several components to it:

• pieces of expanded clay or foam;
• sphagnum moss;
• oak or pine bark;
• seed husks;
• charcoal;
• perlite

All these elements will loosen the soil and increase air flow to the roots, which has great importance for Phalaenopsis. You should not mindlessly mix all the ingredients in the hope that the orchid will immediately begin to bloom magnificently.

The main secret of selection suitable soil– experimenting with different proportions additives A healthy looking flower will show that the right composition has been chosen.

Elements require thorough water and thermal cleaning. First, they are washed and the moss is soaked for a day to get rid of insects. Then additives that can be processed at high temperatures, dried in the oven. These actions will rid the plant roots of the fungus that multiplies in moist soil.

Cymbidium living on the ground will require nutritional supplements in addition to regular soil. Leaves of non-poisonous plants and a mixture of peat and charcoal are suitable for this purpose.

Feeding and fertilizing

Growing an orchid at home in a limited amount of soil involves special care. Cymbidium should be fed from time to time to create comfortable conditions for growth.

Standard nutritional supplements for indoor plants are not suitable for orchids. They need instant ones mineral fertilizers containing phosphorus, nitrogen and iron. They promote leaf growth and flowering, and also give the plant immunity against pests.

Some orchid owners also use organic additives, such as pieces of banana skin. However, it is difficult to calculate the required amount of such feeding. Its excess causes the process of rotting of the plant’s root system.

It is safer to stick with ready-made fertilizers, among which the orchid stick is in demand and has positive reviews. It, impregnated with mineral additives, is inserted between the soil and the wall of the pot. When watered, it gradually dissolves, feeding the flower.

Transplanting a plant

Any orchid requires replanting every two years. During this period, the components included in the soil are destroyed, complicating the ventilation of the roots. In addition, the plant may outgrow its pot, and then its roots will begin to protrude outward. This leads to a lack of mineral salts even with regular feeding of the soil.

The orchid is carefully removed from the pot, shaking off the roots from adhering lumps of soil. It is not advisable to replant a flowering plant, but the process will not cause much harm to it. Next, the flower is moved to a larger pot with fresh, moistened soil.

The main problems when growing orchids

A plant can get sick even if the conditions for its cultivation are strictly observed. Caring for orchids for beginners necessarily includes studying manuals and instructions. They contain recommendations from experienced florists and information about the characteristics of the flower.

As already mentioned, flooding the roots leads to their deterioration and falling leaves. The appearance of yellow spots on greenery can be caused by direct Sun rays. If the soil components are not properly treated, a fungus develops in it, leading to the destruction of the root system. Withered leaves they talk about a lack of moisture and too dry air.

Orchids are quite unpretentious; caring for them is not difficult if you know the basic rules and take into account the specific climate in which these flowers grow in nature.

Conclusion

Scientists conducting experiments to study the vital functions of flowers believe that they communicate with each other by impulses and feel the thoughts of the owner.

This sounds a little fantastic, although how else can we explain the reason why it is rare flowering plant dissolves on its owner’s birthday or other memorable date? It, like any living creature, feels love directed towards it and tries to please the person caring for it. juicy greens leaves and bright inflorescences.

Well-groomed orchids growing on a windowsill demonstrate the attentiveness and responsibility of the owner and decorate any room.

My name is Julia Jenny Norman, and I am an author of articles and books. I cooperate with the publishing houses "OLMA-PRESS" and "AST", as well as with glossy magazines. Currently helping to promote projects virtual reality. I have European roots, but I spent most of my life in Moscow. There are many museums and exhibitions here that charge you with positivity and give inspiration. In my spare time I study French medieval dances. I am interested in any information about that era. I offer you articles that can captivate you with a new hobby or simply give you pleasant moments. You need to dream about something beautiful, then it will come true!

Growing orchids at home is possible if you follow a number of rules, since this flower needs careful care. It is important to choose the right pot and soil, place the plant so that diffused light falls on it, and provide the necessary temperature for the appearance of children - above 25 degrees Celsius.

Of all the orchid varieties, phalaenopsis is the easiest to grow at home.

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  Selection of pot and substrate

  Transparent plastic is the most suitable material for the pot in which the orchid will grow. It should have small holes on the sides and bottom. Additional benefit there will be the presence of small legs at the bottom of the pot: this provides additional air access to the roots. Some types of orchids grow well in hanging baskets.

  In the wild, the flower is located on a tree, so the soil is not suitable for growing orchids at home. Instead, special substrates are used. They include: sphagnum moss, high-moor peat, pine bark, charcoal and additional components. Ready mixes can be found in stores. The volume of charcoal in the substrate should be less than 5%, because it accumulates salts that negatively affect flower growth. The substrate does not need to be compacted; it should lie freely in the pot so that the plant can be easily removed.

  

  Location and temperature

  It is advisable to place the orchid pot near the window, but avoid drafts. When choosing a suitable location for a flower, you need to consider the following features:

  • diffused light there must be a lot;
  • lighting - side.

  Yellowing of the root system and whitening of the leaves is a signal of insufficient light. In spring, the plant cannot adapt immediately, so it needs to be temporarily shaded.

  Orchid loves warmth very much. The room must be at least 15 degrees Celsius, otherwise the plant will freeze. It is necessary to take into account the fact that at 25 degrees and above, babies appear on the flower. They look like small shoots with roots and leaves at the base of the roots or on the peduncle.

  In summer, you can take the plants out into the fresh air: a covered balcony or veranda will do. Taking the orchid “for a walk” better in the morning or in the evening: she does not like direct sunlight.

  

  How to water orchids

  Orchids are always watered along the top of the substrate. Water should pass freely through the soil as if through a sieve. Thanks to this, the soil is enriched with oxygen. In the warm season - once a week. In winter, once every two weeks is enough.

  

  Moisturizing methods:

  • Abundant watering. It is better to do this along the edge of the pot so that water does not get into the base of the leaves. Excess liquid will come out through the holes;
  • Immerse the orchid pot in a container of water for half an hour - the water level should coincide with its edges. After the time has passed, you need to take out the plant and let it excess water drain. Do not allow liquid to stagnate in the pot - this will cause rotting and deterioration of the substrate;
  • Spraying the plant with a spray bottle. Moisture should not get on the inflorescences, otherwise spots will appear on them or they will wither.

  Water at room temperature or warmer is suitable for irrigation. Before doing this, it is advisable to infuse the liquid for at least a day. Hard water must first be boiled and then allowed to stand.

  Sometimes orchids can be watered with a small amount of diluted citric acid or vinegar.

  

  How to replant

  Reasons for replanting an orchid:

  • the roots darken and become thinner;
  • the color of the leaves loses saturation;
  • the substrate settles and forms lumps;
  • unpleasant smell.

  The plant does not need to be replanted more often than once every two years. Optimal time- spring and early summer. A new orchid pot should not be too loose.

  Orchid transplantation consists of the following steps:

  • water the plant generously a day before the scheduled event;
  • carefully remove from the pot;
  • put in water so that the substrate soaks and moves away from the roots;
  • carefully cut off rotten and spoiled roots, treat fresh cuts with activated carbon;
  • place the plant in a pot and add fresh substrate;
  • Water no earlier than after 1-2 days.

  An orchid that is in bloom or in the process of resuming root growth after winter should not be replanted. During this period, the tips of the plant acquire a bright green hue.
  
  

  Orchid care after flowering

  When the orchid has faded, it is necessary to cut off the peduncle. There are two main methods: cutting the stem immediately after flowering and after it dries. In the second case, the next bloom will occur faster.

  You can cut off the faded stem with a knife, scissors or pruning shears. The tool should be disinfected with a chlorine solution.

  It is important to remember that the peduncle is removed only after complete wilting. This is indicated by a yellow, less often, purple or brown color.

  The stem is not completely removed - a shoot of about 1 cm is left. Since the core at the cut site may be hollow, in the future it is necessary to ensure that when watering the flower no water gets into it, otherwise the plant will rot. To treat and seal the “wound” you can use beeswax. If there are “dormant” buds, the cut is made 1.5 cm above the bud itself.

  After flowering, feeding the orchid should be slightly reduced.

  Orchid propagation

  Basic breeding methods:

  1. 1. By division. First you need to remove the flower from the pot, soak it, and then cut it into two parts. They do it sharp knife, which is pre-disinfected or calcined in fire. The place where the cut was made should be sprinkled with activated carbon.
  2. 2. Cuttings. This method is recommended for orchids that rise quickly and have only one apical growth point. IN in this case Young shoots are used, which are cut off at the base of leaf growth. The knife must be previously disinfected. The stems are divided into pieces of 20 cm, fresh cuts are processed using activated carbon and dry in the fresh air for at least a day. The cuttings need to be moistened the day before planting. At the first stage, it is necessary to obtain the roots and leaves of the future plant. To do this, fill a pot or other container with a light substrate, place the prepared cutting on it horizontally and cover the container with film. The result is something like a greenhouse. You can plant the cuttings after leaves and roots appear on it.
  3. 3. Children. This method is most suitable for replanting at home. Babies are formed on shoots at temperatures above 25 degrees Celsius. The degree of warmth must be maintained by increasing the humidity level. After the baby gets a little stronger, it is cut off and transplanted into a pot.
  4. 4. Bending down. The shoot is carefully bent into another pot and sprinkled with substrate. Prune it after it takes root.
  5. 5. Seeds. A rather labor-intensive process that is almost impossible to perform at home. Requires sterile conditions and special temperature regime.

One of the most beautiful indoor plants is the orchid. Its blossoms are mesmerizing. This plant can become the main decoration of any interior. In order for an orchid to feel good at home, it needs to be provided with proper care. Its subtleties will be discussed further.

general description

How to care for an orchid at home? This question interests many gardeners. After all, this beautiful plant is one of the most desirable for growing at home. To understand all the intricacies of this process, you will need to know better about the wonderful flower.

The orchid is a member of the orchid family. It includes almost 10% of all plants in the world. This ancient plant. Traces of it were found in Cretaceous sediments. Orchids grow in the wild everywhere, where at least approximately suitable conditions have been created for them. However, the favorite place for this plant to grow is tropical forests.

Most orchid species are epiphytes. These flowers do not have a double process of fertilization (which more than late species green spaces). At the same time, the species diversity of orchids is enormous. Some of them are quite tiny. There are plants that grow up to 2 m in height.

Growing orchids at home requires taking into account some of the features of their growth in the wild. Many of these flowers grow on tropical trees. This helps to receive the light necessary for life. Orchids are also often found on steep cliffs. They are firmly held by their roots to uneven terrain. Water accumulates in such depressions.

Many legends are associated with this flower. Some people still believe that man-eating orchids live in the jungle. However, the largest prey that predatory species feed on are small insects. The orchid was associated in ancient cultures with love and beauty.

Varieties

Today they grow at home different types orchids. They may have different size, color and shape of flowers. There are absolutely small plants. Some orchids grow quite large. All of them are united by indescribably beautiful flowering.

The Dendrobium orchid, which can be cared for at home and reproduces without any particular difficulties, is heat-loving plant. It also needs sufficient lighting. One of the popular species today is Dendrobium Phalaenopsis. If the temperature in the house cannot be maintained at +23 °C, it is better to purchase a different type of this plant. This is Dendrobium nobile. The plant prefers moderately cold temperatures.

One of the most unusual species orchids is Vanda. It has a completely open root system. In this case, the plant does not need supports. Watering it consists of constantly humidifying the air. The plant receives moisture from natural conditions from fog, precipitation. Indoor plant loves high humidity and bright light.

Growing orchids at home will be simple if you choose a species that matches existing conditions in room. So, less demanding than other species (and therefore the most popular) is Phalaenopsis. This type of orchid is different abundant flowering. She loves warmth and light, but when the temperature drops she can adapt to the surrounding conditions. Flowering continues long time.

Lighting

How to care for an orchid at home? You will need to provide the plant with everything it needs. First of all, you need to pay attention to the lighting. This plant needs a lot of diffused light. However, it must be taken into account that direct sunlight is contraindicated for it. This rule should be followed when choosing a place to grow an orchid.

The main sign of a lack of sunlight is the lightening of the leaves. They become elongated. If the plant has enough light, the orchid’s flowering at home will be long-lasting and bewitchingly beautiful.

In summer, a plant that stands on a windowsill will need to be shaded. If this is not done, the orchid will get burned. Also, too bright lighting does not allow the plant to properly adapt to environmental conditions after a long winter period. For shading, a special opaque film is used.

In autumn, shading is not required for the plant. At this time, the lighting intensity decreases. The plant will gradually rebuild itself, entering a dormant period. Buds will form on it and new shoots will develop.

It is also worth paying attention to the length of daylight hours. It must be at least 12 hours. If it has become shorter, the orchid will require artificial lighting.

Temperature

Care and watering of orchids at home should be carried out depending on the type of plant. It is also important to consider at what temperature a certain species grows. There are orchids that need high, medium temperatures. There are also cold-loving species.

Plants that prefer warmth should grow at daytime temperatures between 23 and 32°C. At night the temperature can drop to 15 °C. In winter, the temperature can remain at 15-18 °C. In this case, the temperature difference should not be more than 3-5 degrees. Its reduction should occur gradually.

Plants that they prefer average temperature, should grow in conditions of 18-23 °C in summer and 12-15 °C in winter. They are most often found in mountainous areas. Such plants are more hardy. However, they do not like rising temperatures.

Cold-loving orchids are also grown at home. In the wild, such species grow in highlands and mountains. They prefer a temperature of 15-18 °C. In winter, the temperature should not fall below 11 °C.

Almost all types of orchids feel comfortable at temperatures of 13-27 °C during the day, and 13-24 °C at night. The difference between day and night temperatures must be maintained in order for the plant to bloom for a long time.

Watering

How to water an orchid at home? This is one of the most important factors that influence growth and flowering. The plant does not tolerate prolonged stagnation of water. To correctly perform this procedure, you need to know the characteristics of the growth of this species in the wild. Depending on this factor, watering rules can vary significantly.

Species such as Cymbidium, Phalaenopsis, Paphiopedilum prefer to grow in a slightly moist substrate. However, the soil should not be wet. If Dendrobium, Oncidium, or Cattleya are grown in the house, the soil must dry completely before it is moistened again.

When choosing the frequency and abundance of watering, the room temperature and the amount of light are also taken into account. It is also important to consider the size of the pot in which the orchid is located and the composition of the substrate. During the growing season, the plant requires more moisture. Since the orchid is an epiphyte, it can tolerate short-term drought. However, if this situation becomes regular, the leaves will begin to wither.

Excess moisture is also dangerous for the plant. In this case, the roots will rot. A yellow outline forms along the edges. Knowing how to water an orchid at home, you can achieve its chic appearance.

Soft (settled) water is used for irrigation. It should be a couple of degrees higher than the room temperature. In summer, orchids are watered on average 2-3 times a week. In this case, you need to monitor the condition of the soil. In winter, the procedure is carried out 1-2 times a week.

Plant propagation

Reproduction and replanting of orchids at home is a responsible task. The appearance of the plant depends on the correctness of these procedures. You can propagate orchids different ways. One of possible options is the division of the rhizome. To do this, the plant will need to be removed from the pot. The roots are carefully cleared of soil. You need to cut through the rhizome between the false bulbs. You need to pour charcoal onto the wound of the plant. Two separate plants are planted in separate pots.

For orchid propagation, cuttings from the tops are also suitable. This method is suitable for those species in which the nodes are located at a sufficient distance. At the height of half of such a cutting, you will need to cut off the shoot. The cut site must be disinfected with charcoal. The knife must also be sterile. Then the shoot is planted in a pot with soil.

Side shoots can be used for propagation. When it appears on the plant, it needs to be sprayed. This stimulates the appearance of roots. It is separated and the orchid is transplanted. It is easier to grow a plant at home using this method.

Seeds are also used for propagating orchids. This the hard way, which is used only by specialists.

Transfer

Special attention When considering the rules of care, it is necessary to transplant an orchid at home. This procedure should be considered in detail step by step. The plant reacts poorly to such procedures. Therefore, the work must be carried out carefully. It is best to leave the root ball of soil. If this is not done, the hairs on the shoots in the soil are damaged. It is through them that the plant receives the nutrients and moisture necessary for life.

Therefore, the lump does not need to be removed. This is done only as a last resort, if the soil no longer contains mineral components and has lost its structure. In other cases, transshipment is done. A larger container will be required. A new substrate is poured into it. Next, you need to remove the orchid from the pot. It is installed in a new container at the same level where it was before.

Only after the flowering period has completed can the orchid be transplanted at home. This step by step procedure should be reviewed in detail before starting work. It is carried out if the pot has become too small for the plant or if living and dead roots are intertwined in the container. The procedure may also be required if the substrate is salinized.

If the substrate needs to be removed, the orchid is removed from the pot. It must be carefully freed from the substrate. Dry, rotten and damaged roots must be trimmed. The roots are washed with water. Soil is poured into the prepared container. The plant is placed in a pot. Soil is poured into the container. The growing point should not be covered with soil. It is slightly moistened and placed in the shade for several days.

Substrate for transplantation

How to replant an orchid at home? A step-by-step description was presented above. However, it is worth paying attention to the preparation of the substrate. It is purchased in a specialized store. You can also prepare the soil yourself. For this purpose, chopped fern root, peat, tree leaves, pine bark and charcoal. Willow leaves should not be used.

A properly prepared substrate allows you to avoid fertilizing the plant for a long time. The container for transplantation must have drainage. It should make up 25% of the entire pot. There should be holes in the bottom.

If the orchid is grown in a wicker basket, then the cracks need to be processed. They are lined with sphagnum moss. Pour soil into a heap at the bottom of the pot or basket. Place the plant on it, carefully straightening the roots. More substrate is poured on top. There is no need to compact it. If necessary, the plant is additionally strengthened with a support made of threads or wire. Watering is not carried out for 4 days. The wounds should dry out and heal.

Flowering period

An orchid at home can bloom when proper care for a long time. During this period, she must be provided with everything necessary. During the period of growth and flowering, the plant requires a lot of light. In summer and spring, the orchid stores up its strength. In autumn it blooms. At this time, watering should be increased. However, stagnation of water in the pot is unacceptable.

You can apply fertilizers, which are purchased at a specialty store. The leaves of the plant need to be sprayed warm water from a spray bottle. Humidity around blooming orchid should be high. At the same time, you need to periodically open the windows in the room. This will create the right microclimate.

However, drafts should be avoided. Also, sudden changes in temperature should not be allowed. Before the flowering period, watering is reduced to a minimum. If the orchid has managed to stock up on all the necessary substances, it can bloom continuously for up to six months. After this, a number of actions are also required.

Care after flowering

An orchid at home after flowering requires some care. After drying, the peduncle does not need to be cut off immediately. It will nourish the flower for some time. Only when it turns yellow can the peduncle be removed. The stump should be about 2 cm.

Watering at this time is reduced. No feeding is required either. If the plant is replanted after this, it may not bloom for a whole year. To resume the process, it is recommended to move the plant to another location.

Having considered the features of growing an orchid at home, you can achieve its healthy appearance and charming bloom. The plant will delight its owners for a long time.

Gardening in Russia is a hobby that stops with the onset of cold weather. And only by breeding indoor flowers can be practiced all year round. One of the most spectacular and popular is the orchid. Few plants can compare with its beauty, elegance of form and variety of colors. But growing tropical beauty- the process is quite complex, which should be undertaken only after a thorough study of the theory.

The easiest way to start a plant is to buy it at a specialty store. Today they have a wide range of products, so it’s easy to get confused. When choosing, you should focus not only on the beauty of the flower, but also on a number of other characteristics.

The health of the orchid will depend on the condition of the roots. They should be developed, gray or green. The growing flower has a bright green root tip. The leaves are dense, without signs of lethargy. If they have a sticky coating, white or yellow spots, then you should refrain from purchasing.

To check how healthy the roots are, you can simply shake the pot of the plant.

To grow orchids do not use conventional garden soil. The soil should consist of a mixture of moss, bark, perlite, sand, and cork.

An adult plant that can reproduce and bloom will cost more. The young seedling has few leaves and does not yet have a peduncle. It will produce a flower only after a few years. If you don’t want to wait, then it’s better to take a fully formed orchid.

The necessary conditions

To properly grow an orchid, you must comply with a number of mandatory conditions: properly prepare the soil, maintain light conditions and humidity, and replant the flower on time.

Since the orchid has a very long stem, the pot must provide it with reliable support. The soil consists of a mixture of moisture-retaining components, tree bark, a mineral-rich substrate (vermiculite), and literally a handful of earth is added. The soil retains moisture for a long time and supplies the plant with minerals.

The pot should be elongated, not too wide, with many holes. It can be replaced by a regular plastic container, which is placed in a decorative flowerpot. But it is advisable to have a transparent pot itself - this will allow you to control the degree of soil moisture and monitor the development of roots.

The container with the growing seedling cannot be placed on the south window! Leaves will receive sunburn. It is better to move it to the center of the room, place it on a table or stand. But you can place an orchid on a north or east window.

Temperature and watering

Under natural conditions, the orchid has managed to spread throughout the globe and feels great in different climatic zones, right up to the Arctic Circle. But most varieties still come from warm countries: Australia, South America, Malaysia, Brazil. To better grow this delicate flower, you should find out from which climate zone he is from.

The optimal temperature is considered to be 18-27°C during the day, and up to 24°C at night. Ideally in dark time day, you need to move the plant to a cooler room. This will allow him to develop faster. By the way, it tolerates small changes in temperature very well. Only in case of cold weather it is necessary to reduce watering (and vice versa).

Eat original way glaze. Take a larger container and pour water and fertilizer into it. Then a pot of orchid is placed there. Within 15 min. the soil should be saturated with moisture, after which the plant is removed.

• Like many other flowers, the orchid does not tolerate direct sunlight, she needs diffused lighting.
• There is no need to fill the pot, this can lead to irreversible consequences - wilting. The amount of water should be slightly increased during the growth phase. But after flowering and in winter, watering is reduced.

It is necessary to fertilize orchids constantly - it is better to do this with the help of specially created fertilizers. They should be diluted and used according to the instructions. Tight, strong leaves and gray-green color of the roots indicate that watering is not required yet. But if the container is small, the moisture will evaporate faster. Therefore, the frequency of watering is determined by the situation.

Reproduction and transplantation

If growth proceeds correctly, it is time for transplantation. It is not recommended to carry it out often, since it stressful situation for the gentle inhabitant of the pot. After a change of residence, growth may stop for a short time. But this must be done once every 3 years; the best time is spring. You will need a new pruner soil mixture. The instrument must be disinfected to prevent infection.

• The pot should be slightly crushed in your hands - this will make the rhizomes easier to separate from the walls. They need to be cleared of old soil.
• After a thorough inspection, remove insects, damaged areas of the root system, and lower leaves.
• The flower needs to be dried for several hours.
• Before planting an orchid in new pot, it must be treated with an antiseptic. The growth point is left on the surface.
• There is no need to compact it too tightly - the soil should be airy.

Anyone who has managed to get a young flower to bloom will want to get a few more. In order to grow an orchid at home, there are several options.

Some species reproduce in the only way - by lateral shoots, or bulbs. But the simplest method is division. Therefore, beginners should choose the variety for which it is suitable. Cuttings are also common.

It is better to cut off the shoots that were closer to the base - the plants that emerge from them will be the strongest. Leave 2-3 buds on each separated piece; no more is needed. The cuts must be treated with crushed coal. Then planting material placed in tree bark or sphagnum moss (they must first be moistened). Care for it like a regular orchid. The first roots will appear in a month.

By dividing the bush, only those specimens that have reached the age of several years and are sufficiently strong are propagated at home. It is imperative to have aerial roots, at least three, and better if there are also new ovaries. The sections are treated with crushed coal, then planted in new pots, and the soil is changed. Over time flower will go in height

Rarely, some species produce additional shoots. Small shoots appear slightly to the side of the main root. The shoot is carefully removed after abundant watering and placed in a separate container. Grow as usual.

Growing orchids from seeds at home is an impossible task! Many novice flower growers take it up, but to no avail. It is much safer to plant cuttings or divide an already mature plant. These are proven methods that many amateurs use successfully.

Starting with just one flower, you can gradually increase your collection. If home conditions are favorable, the orchid will bloom for a long time and reproduction will be successful.

They are divided into several types. Treatment usually takes a long time and is not always effective, so it is better to strictly follow all requirements so that the plant grows healthy.

Orchids captivate many lovers with their delicate beauty. Many people believe that growing them at home can only be done experienced gardeners, but that's not true. If you carry out the necessary measures in time, following the rules, you will not only be able to grow an orchid and achieve its flowering, but also propagate the plant.