Orchid Care Information

Orchids grow well as houseplants.

More than 30,000 species of orchids exist around the world, according to Iowa State University. The tropical plants grow well as houseplants and provide a wide diversity of blossoms, sizes and shapes to fit into any decor.

Types

Despite so many orchid species and even more hybrids, the requirements of orchids generally fall into three categories; warm-growing orchids, which require a temperature of 65 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit; intermediate temperature loving varieties that thrive in a room at 60 to 75 degrees F; and cool-loving varieties that enjoy 55 to 70 degrees F, according to Iowa State University.

Humidity and Water Requirements

Orchids require humidity to grow well. They prefer a room humidity range of 40 to 80 percent. The roots of orchids must be allowed to dry out between waterings or they may suffer root rot. Orchids with fleshy roots and young orchid plants can be maintained with constantly moist soil.

Considerations

Specialized orchid potting mixes exist and also fir-bark-based potting mediums. Orchids grown in such mixtures require a regular fertilizing schedule each time the plant receives water to meet its nutrient needs. Consider placing orchids in an east-, west- or south-facing window with filtered light. If you move the orchid outside during the summer, it will appreciate a shaded area.

References

• Iowa State University: Orchids as Houseplants
• University of Illinois Extension: Orchids as Elegant Houseplants
• Smithsonian National Musuem of Natural History: Orchids
• University of Hawaii: Orchid Care

Resources

• Orchid Conservation Coalition: Orchid Conservation