Essential Tips for Orchid Beginners

Houseplants
Orchid Tips

Sometimes, gardeners - especially less experienced ones - are so critical of their mistakes they think even the smallest one can kill their plant. Many people actually do believe that any sign of neglect or improper care is fatal for their plant.

The good news is that it's usually not so drastic. While it's important to follow care requirements and advice, a few small mistakes will probably not damage your plant so much to kill it. Orchids are no different: while they do have certain requirements you should meet, they are stronger than they look.

Still, it's important to know what are the common mistakes people make and how to avoid them. Also, it's worth knowing what to do when you make a mistake. Remember: gardening takes time, patience and experience.

When it comes to orchids there has to be one word of warning: these plants are somewhat sensitive so in some cases inexperienced owners do end up killing their plants.

Here are some basic tips for new orchid owners who wish to avoid this scenario.

Do your research

The most important thing you can do for your orchid is to do a research. You need to understand what a particular variety of orchid requires when it comes to potting, light, water, temperature, humidity and other requirements. You should never "guess" or apply to one species something you know works for a different species. When searching for advice on how to care for orchids, make sure you search for advice on orchids (ideally, a particular breed) and not plants in general. This will greatly decrease the risk of doing something wrong. Also, once you have the advice you need, stick to it! This is the only way to make your orchid thrive and to keep it strong and healthy.

If you're not sure where to seek for the advice, start with the seller. Visit your local garden centre for some useful tips. Another thing you can do is to search reliable websites offering orchid care information.

Less is more

With orchids, less is usually more. Things such as watering, light or fertilizer should be applied moderately. You might feel tempted to give your orchid more light, water or fertilizer. Don't do it. Orchids thrive when they are given less of these resources. Don't try too hard over them. Sometimes, leaving your orchid alone is exactly what it needs.

Be careful with repotting

Orchids don't like to be repotted, so you should avoid this. The only time you should repot your orchid is when you observe that the soil can't provide nourishment any longer and there is no room for growth. Another time when you should repot is when you see the roots rotting. Other than those situations, don't repot your orchids. Be careful to never repot your orchid while it's blooming.

Choose the best orchid

When picking orchid variety for your home, it's important to choose one that will be able to thrive in present conditions of your house. It's important to pick an orchid that will be able to do well in your household. Some types of orchids are more gentle and "needy" than the others. Beginner gardeners should pick those varieties because they are easier to take care for and these orchids typically don't suffer much after any mistake you might make. These are a great choice for those who wish to grow orchids in their home for the first time.

Follow these 4 simple tips and chances are that you will be able to grow beautiful, healthy and strong orchids in your home. If an accident happens, don't give up. Just keep on trying and with a bit of experience, you will master orchid care in no time. When your beautiful orchid blooms you will know it was worth it!

Photo credit: Ciao89

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