How are Orchids hybridized in nature?

In nature, insects and animals often pollinate Orchids, and when the seed pod matures, the seeds blow with the wind. Only some seeds ever make it to just the right growing condition to thrive.

Where can I buy Orchids?

You can buy Orchids carefully at a good plant nursery or even a department store. Much better though, I recommend buying Orchids online as you will know exactly what you will get. The best thing about getting plants online is that they are packed very carefully and shipped in a constant temperature. This is very important.

When do Orchids tend to flower most? What is the longest mine can bloom?

Orchids bloom all times of the year depending on the kind of Orchid. Depending on the variety of Orchid you have, and care conditions, you may have an Orchid that blooms for 2 days up to 2 years. Yes, that is possible to have an Orchid that blooms for that long...but you need to choose your Orchids carefully to get the long blooming ones of average 1-6 months blooming. Also, pay close attention to care conditions to grow a healthier, longer blooming Orchid.

How much humidity do Orchids need?

Orchids like humidity like that they experience in nature, 60-80%. Ideal is 60-70%.

How much light do Orchids like?

The amount of light you'll need varies depending on the Orchid. Some prefer bright light, soe prefer deep shade, some prefer regular shade, and others prefer other conditions. You can read more about light for each Orchid variety in our Orchid care section.

How often will my Orchid flower?

Depends what kind of Orchid you have. If you want an Orchid that will bloom longer, average 2-4 months, choose a :

Phalaenopsis
Paphiopedilum
Dendrobium

If you want an Orchid that blooms for 1-2 months, choose a:

Cymbidium
Ondidium
Odontoglossum

If you want an Orchid that blooms 2-6 weeks, choose a:

Miltonia
Masdevalia
Cattleya variety

But, it isn't just that easy as choosing a variety by blooming length of time. You'll probably want an Orchid that has:

Flowers you like
Plant look you like

And most importantly choose:

An Orchid that will grow in your conditions!

How often should I water my Orchids?

As a rule of thumb, you can water when your Orchid plant pot is getting light, but most importantly, read up on your particular Orchid to make sure you know if it likes to dry out more or less between waterings.

How should I water my Orchids?

If you have a greenhouse, you can use a hose or many other kinds of devices.

If you have Orchids in your home, either water them where they are with holding a container of some sort under them so you can water thoroughly. or, bring Orchids to your sink to water.

How often should I fertilize?

It would be best to fertilize "weekly, weakly" which is a saying that means if you are watering every week, use fertilizer each watering. But, use a very weak solution rather than the regular amount. And, every 4th watering use clear water with no fertilizer so that fertilizer salts don't start building up in your pots.

Our Favorite Books

The two most informative overall Orchid Books that we recommend are Orchid Grower’s Companion: Cultivation, Propagation, and Varieties and Flora's Orchids.