Can I Put an Orchid in a Tree?

Epiphytic orchids naturally grow in trees.

A large group of orchids are epiphytes, which means that they grow in the branches of trees. They are not parasites, nor is the relationship symbiotic. The orchids are merely very close neighbors to the tree.

Epiphytes Naturally Grow in Trees

Phalaenopsis (moth) orchids are natural epiphytes, and one of the longest blooming.

Orchids can be separated into three groups by their growing preferences: terrestrial, lithophytes and epiphytes. Epiphytes are best suited to placing in trees, since that's where they began naturally.

Conditions Count

Cattleyas are also epiphytes. This particular cattleya is a miniature.

If you want to grow epiphytic orchids in trees year round, you must live in a tropical climate, in USDA Hardiness Zones 9 and 10 only. Only the lower half of Florida is naturally appropriate for growing orchids directly on trees.

You can hang potted orchids from tree branches outside anywhere the nighttime temperature does not drop below 55 degrees Fahrenheit. Remember to bring your plants back inside when the nights start to cool in the fall.

Hanging the Orchid in a Tree

A mass of oncidium blossoms cascading from a tree branch is stunning.

Find or make a hanger whose design pleases you, is the right size for your pot and is sturdy. Hanging your orchids outside protects them from snails and slugs, which love to eat the orchid's roots. Although your orchids will be in the tree's shade, they will get plenty of ambient light during the summer months. Remember to position the hanging orchid where it is protected from the harsh mid-day sun.

References

• "Ortho's All About Orchids"; Elvin McDonald; 1999