Orchid
Information Page 2
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Orchids are pretty
cool - lets dive into more about what makes orchids
interesting. The Oncidium on the right has pseudobulbs
- some orchids have them and some don't. Since they're
for storing nutrients and water during dry times, then
if you get one of these Orchids it likes to dry out
more in between waterings so it can make use of its
pseudobulbs. |
Oncidium
Orchid |
More Information on Orchid Flowers
Orchids
come in all colors except blue and black, and have flowers,
depending on the variety, from the size of a pinhead to the
size of a pie plate. Some leaves are thick, some are thin, some
are tiny, some plants, such as the Vanilla Plant, grow over
15 feet tall!
The two most informative overall Orchid Books that we recommend are Orchid Grower’s Companion: Cultivation, Propagation, and Varieties and Flora's Orchids.
 Orchid
Flowers
Orchid
flowers are beautiful and come in all shapes and sizes. The
image in the photograph to the right is an Oncidium hybrid Orchid.
Generally
we prefer colors that are not muddy, flowers that are flat and
wide open with strong substance. Look also at the number of
flower spikes on a plant and stem. The more flowers the better.
Orchid flowers can be sensitive to too much heat or smog, so
keep that air circulating and mist if it is very hot!
Orchid
Leaves, Leaf Size and Thickness
When
you're looking at orchids, generally those with thicker, harder
leaves tend to like more sun. Leaf color does vary from plant
to plant as does leaf shape as well. Often we identify certain
orchids just by their unique leaves even when out of bloom.
Orchid
Roots
Usually
white roots with green tips on them means the orchid likes to
dry out in between waterings. Those with silver roots like to
be a little more moist between waterings, and those with brownish
roots also like to be moist between waterings. Some roots are
hairy, some are shiny and some are dull - just like people.
;-)
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.
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