Orchids - Everyone Loves Them

By David Adam

Everyone may have a favorite flower that holds special meaning, but orchids have long been a popular choice. Introduced to the Victorian society more than one hundred years ago, orchids are one of the most exquisite flowers available.

Orchids are available in four different varieties. Epiphytes - cling to the tree as they grow Lithophytes - known for growing on rocks. Saprophytes - grow in leaf litter. Terrestrials - grows in sand.Between these four categories, you will discover that there is an abundant number of distinct plants.

Orchid species that are native (not hybridized) naturally occur with over 20,000 known species. There may be more native plants that have not yet been discovered. When you count orchid flower hybrids, over 100,000 hybrids have been artificially created through cultivator plants.

Orchids often have the reputation for being difficult to grow, but this can be misleading. Some orchids do indeed require tender loving care. But many are very hardy. Some orchids prefer the high heat and humidity traditionally associated with this family of plants. But others will do just fine in cooler, dryer conditions. The range of light, temperature and growing conditions is another reflection of the variety of natural conditions in which they're found.

Natural areas where the orchid family genres are found include every continent except Antarctica, including Africa and South America. Orchids actually occur as wild flowers. Hawaii is sometimes referred to as "Orchid Island" due to the number of orchid species found on the islands.

They do require some care, of course. Like any living thing, they are subject to a number of pests and diseases. Spider mites, aphids and snails are common problems. Fungi and bacteria, along with several viruses, are known to attack orchids. But prevention and cure is not too difficult.

Techniques range from simple brushing or washing off the flowers and leaves to mild anti-bacterial compounds. Fungi can be treated by drying, anti-fungicides and other methods. Sometimes simple isolation is enough to prevent spreading and the plant will cure itself with a little pruning and proper watering and potting.

Caring for your orchid may be the easy part -sometimes the hardest part of orchard flower ownership is picking the perfect flower. The tremendous amount of choices in colors and shapes, and browsing through the orchid catalogs can overwhelm the senses. Don't give up on finding the perfect flower for your garden.

It doesn't matter what your taste in flowers is, what your decorating goal is, or how much of a green thumb you have. There is an orchid that will work for you. One thing that is certain is that you will be able to find the perfect plant to bring beauty to your home or green house. - 32376

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