How to Grow Black Orchids

Black orchids are the mythical unicorns of the orchid flower world. There has been no orchid found to be truly black, rather the flower is such a dark blue that it looks black to the naked eye. However, any orchids with dark lips, petals or bars have been grouped in the "black orchid" category and can be purchased at your local flower and plant shop. This article will illustrate how to grow and care for your black orchid plant.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Orchid plant
• Soil
• Pot
• Water
• Fertilizer

How to Grow Black Orchids

1. Purchase your black orchids and plant them in the appropriate sized pot with adequate soil.

2. Place your orchid in a mostly shady area. Most orchids need about 60% of shade. If they stay in the sun too much, it can permanently burn the plant.

3. Water your orchid plants as needed. You do not want to over-water the plants and do not water the flower directly. Your plant will "tell" you when it needs water when its' leaves become crinkly. Over time, you should find out the right amount of water for your particular plant.

4. Keep your orchids in a nice, steady temperature. Orchids should be placed in a temperature range of 65-85 Fahrenheit during the day and 55-75 Fahrenheit at night. However, orchids can withhold temperatures a little cooler and warmer than this range, as long as they are not in a both cold and wet environment.

5. Fertilize your plants about every couple of weeks. Find a good fertilizer at the store and follow the instructions on the label.

6. Re-pot the orchid when it overgrows the pot or the pot itself is worn down and cannot support the plant.

Tips & Warnings

• Keep experimenting with your orchid by placing it in a different area or using different amounts of water to find the best conditions for your orchids.
• Try to keep your plant by a window or where it can get a breeze. Most flowers grow better with air movement.

Resources

• Orchid Mania