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.
The orchid flower comes in four main varieties or groups. The first is the epiphyte. This variety clings to trees in a vine form as it grows. The lithophytes are popular for growing on or rocks or in rock gardens. The saprophytes grow best in "leaf litter" - decomposing leaves. Terrestrials grow most commonly in sand, but there are other varieties of this plant available. These four groups offer a wide variety on the amount of distinct plants.
There are over 20,000 known native orchid species, which means there are probably many more not yet discovered. But that's nothing compared to the over 100,000 hybrids that have been artificially created by clever cultivators. The past 100 years has been very busy for some.
Although orchids have a reputation for being temperamental and hard to grow, don't think this is necessarily true. While certain varieties are more high maintenance, many varieties are easy to grow and very hardy. Orchids have different temperature requirements, from hot and humid, to some that prefer cool, dry conditions. Differences in temperature and light requirements, as well as soil conditions, also effect they natural varieties that occur in certain areas.
In those conditions we find genera that range from the lovely Phalaenopsis to the even lovelier Cymbidium and many others. There are orchids that hail from Africa and those native to South America. In fact, orchids occur in the wild on every continent (except Antarctica) and on many islands. Hawaii is an excellent example of the latter, sometimes called Orchid Island because of its numerous species.
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.
Some techniques to use are simply brushing the leaves off and washing the flowers, to mild anti-bacterial compound products. Fungi is treatable by drying, an anti-fungicide, or other methods. Simple isolation will sometimes allow the plant to cure itself with a little pruning, while preventing the spread of the fungus.
Choosing the right orchid is sometimes the most difficult part of caring for them. The wide range of shapes, colors and sizes can overwhelm the orchid lover's senses. Catalogs give choices with every imaginable option - leaves or none, growth height, mature flower size. Finding the perfect fit can be an adventure.
No matter your taste, decorating desires or level of gardening expertise, there is an orchid just right for you. But one thing is very simple, indeed. Getting one that looks gorgeous in your home or greenhouse is the easiest thing in the world. - 32376
The orchid flower comes in four main varieties or groups. The first is the epiphyte. This variety clings to trees in a vine form as it grows. The lithophytes are popular for growing on or rocks or in rock gardens. The saprophytes grow best in "leaf litter" - decomposing leaves. Terrestrials grow most commonly in sand, but there are other varieties of this plant available. These four groups offer a wide variety on the amount of distinct plants.
There are over 20,000 known native orchid species, which means there are probably many more not yet discovered. But that's nothing compared to the over 100,000 hybrids that have been artificially created by clever cultivators. The past 100 years has been very busy for some.
Although orchids have a reputation for being temperamental and hard to grow, don't think this is necessarily true. While certain varieties are more high maintenance, many varieties are easy to grow and very hardy. Orchids have different temperature requirements, from hot and humid, to some that prefer cool, dry conditions. Differences in temperature and light requirements, as well as soil conditions, also effect they natural varieties that occur in certain areas.
In those conditions we find genera that range from the lovely Phalaenopsis to the even lovelier Cymbidium and many others. There are orchids that hail from Africa and those native to South America. In fact, orchids occur in the wild on every continent (except Antarctica) and on many islands. Hawaii is an excellent example of the latter, sometimes called Orchid Island because of its numerous species.
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.
Some techniques to use are simply brushing the leaves off and washing the flowers, to mild anti-bacterial compound products. Fungi is treatable by drying, an anti-fungicide, or other methods. Simple isolation will sometimes allow the plant to cure itself with a little pruning, while preventing the spread of the fungus.
Choosing the right orchid is sometimes the most difficult part of caring for them. The wide range of shapes, colors and sizes can overwhelm the orchid lover's senses. Catalogs give choices with every imaginable option - leaves or none, growth height, mature flower size. Finding the perfect fit can be an adventure.
No matter your taste, decorating desires or level of gardening expertise, there is an orchid just right for you. But one thing is very simple, indeed. Getting one that looks gorgeous in your home or greenhouse is the easiest thing in the world. - 32376
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We have a great selection of giant tropical Hibiscus. See our site for Hibiscus flowers, Red Hibiscus flowers. 10/25
