How to Grow a Terrestrial Orchid

Just as there are many orchids that grow in trees perched on branches, there are many others that grow naturally on the ground. Terrestrial orchids need different care from the epiphytic tree lovers. Here are some suggestions on how to grow these earth-loving orchids.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
   The Cymbidium orchid

   The Cymbidium orchid has been one of the most coveted of the terrestrial (or semi-terrestrial) orchids. With its long graceful foliage and tall sprays of wide, pink, white or yellow flowers, these orchids are often used in corsages. Cymbidiums can grow well outdoors in warm climates with gentle sunshine and regular water. They are heavy feeders and need supplemental food. They will do well in pots with good light and a well-draining medium and are often sold around Easter, though they grace the home with elegance at any time of the year.

2. 
   Vanilla terrestrial orchid

   Another terrestrial orchid that attracts attention has white, typically orchid-like flowers that are not all that large or noticeable. But they are the precursors of the vanilla bean that is so valued in the kitchen. The vanilla bean orchid twines into a long vine that will ladder its way up trees in nature or twine around stakes when grown in gardens or pots. The beans require elaborate processing so don’t expect to be making your own vanilla flavoring easily. Still, the plant is lovely, graceful and fun to grow. This one cannot handle any frost at all.

3. There are enchanting varieties of Lady Slipper orchids (Cypripedium) that grow wild throughout the United States and there are varieties that do well in pot culture. A garden orchid easily grown in light shade outdoors is the diminutive Hardy Chinese Orchid (Bletilla). This is a bulbous orchid often sold in catalogs and even home stores. Try the Ground Orchid (Spathoglottis plicata) or the Nun's Cap Orchid (Phaius tankervilleae) for more warm-climate outdoor garden orchids.

4. Terrestrial orchids need rich soils with plenty of humus. They should not be kept wet, neither should they be allowed to dry out. Give most orchids part sun or light shade. Delicate petals can be damaged by high winds or passersby, so plant them where they will be protected. Most do well in pots indoors or outdoors. All appreciate humidity. Any terrestrial orchid will be a fun and unique challenge to grow.

Resources

• Landscape designing and gardening information and ideas
• How to Grow Vanilla

[seradis]

on 5/10/2009 Great article on growing terrestrial orchids! 5*

[sonni57]

on 5/10/2009 I love orchids but have a black thumb they always die thanks for the helpful article.