Caring for your Orchids

Orchids are admired by everyone who comes into the shop ... how could you not! They are such an elegant plant that fits anywhere... and they fit in any where. Great for gifts giving too for any occasion! So many people have said to me that they "just kill them" or they are "too difficult" to grow but really - they are not.

Once I describe the simple care instructions ... off goes another pretty orchids to a home with an excited new orchid collector! I have recently been asked to make a video on how to care for the orchid so check out the www.Youtube.manotickflorists.com channel.

Here is just how easy it is to take care of your orchid... Once a month lift out and remove the plant/orchid pot out of the decorative pot. Over a sink or basin thoroughly water the wood chips that is orchid is planted in. Let the water drain out. Do not let the plant sit in water. When the water is completely drained, replace into the decorative pot. The roots will climb out of the pot - this is what it is suppose to do. On a regular basis (every couple of days) mist the roots and chips with a water mister. The roots get their watering and nutrition from the air - humidity.

When the blossoms are finished and dropped off, cut this stem off at the base. It will no longer produce blossoms it now turns brown and drop off. You will then start to see new leaves sprouting up. In time (be patient) some times several months depending on the growing conditions, a blossom stem will sprout out. It will begin to grow shooting off to the side. This is when you will need to use that stake that you got with the original blossoms. We like to have the flower stem vertical for decorative purpose- not mother nature.

If you have not had another blooming but your leaves are still healthy, it could be just a matter or changing its' location. If love bright indirect lighting, cool and high humidity.

There are many orchid collectors, societies and web pages that you can access for more detailed info on care, growing and history of the orchid. If you have an orchid already, got questions - come in and ask, I'd be happy to have an "orchid chat". Have fun with them and enjoy their elegance and beauty!

Manotickflorists.com or find us in the Manotick Mews Shopping Center! 1160 Beaverwood Road Ottawa, ON in the Ottawa south suburb of Manotick 613-692-2541