Orchids

[jo9919]

I treated myself to a Phalaenopsis a couple of weeks ago. I love Orchids but don't know the first thing about them so I've tried to look up it's care on the web.

What I've found out is to water once a week, however, not to let it stand in water.

Basically, when I water, because it's only potted in what looks like bark, the water runs straight though, so I have to pour it straight away. Is this right?

Jo.

[jo9919]

[PurpleHeather]

There was a step by step video on the BBC gardening site. Which may still be on will see if I can locate for you.

They are odd plants where the roots hang out of the pot and actually absorb moisture from the air. So they like it humid. A bathroom is often the best place.

One of the tips I got was to house them in a clear pot. Stand that on gravel and always keep the gravel moist, never actually wetting or watering the plant.

There is some kind of fungus which grows on them this is normal.

They hate drafts too and a simple blast of cold air is enough to kill them.

[susan1]

google Ivens orchids

[jo9919]

Thank you for your replies.

I did google, and that is a great site for information.

Jo.

[Monika]

I've got four orchids and each one has put out some new growth over the past week or so.

They're all looking really well but I keep reading how you shouldn't stand them in water.  I do stand them in water once a week with some added 'Miracle Grow' every two or three weeks and, as I said before, they are flourishing.

The eldest is 2 years old, two more are about a year old and the newest one my sister bought for my birthday in August.

I keep them all on a windowsill facing north.