hello there,
i have killed orchids in the past and was wondering if they need any specific care to keep them happy and healthy. if you could let me know i would greatly appreciate it.

thank you

doug

Hi Doug,
Keep compost moist - reduce watering in the winter. Use soft, tepid water. Some orchids like a dry out between waterings. Moist air is essential. Mist leaves occasionally. Feed during the summer months. Orchids appreciate being pot-bound but after a few years repotting and division my be secessary.

House plant Orchids cannot tolerate hot and stuffy conditions so good ventilation is required even in winter - don't be affraid to stand the pot outdoors on a warm and sunny day. Indoors, however, you must avoid cold draughts which can be fatal.

Good light is essential and only a tiny fraction of the 100,000 known types are suitable choice for the "house plant". Also if you purchase one from a garden center, while it looks pretty and you are excited because its in full bloom, thoes blooms could be weeks old, therefore when you get your "new plant" home a week later the flowers start to wither away.

Here is a tip I just learned myself. If you want to attach one of your orchids to a tree outside--the phalaenopis is the only one that MUST be attached upside down. If not it will die!!!

And you can attach them with panty hose.