Tropical flowers at home

Getting ready

First, decide on what kinds of flowers you would like to have. You will also need to consider the conditions in which tropical flowers grow. Perhaps you could turn an old shed into a greenhouse, or use a sunroom for your plants. Depending on what hardiness zone you live in, plants may be able to be kept outdoors during the summer months.

Planting the seed

Most tropical plants grow from either cuttings or seeds, with the exception of orchids, whose complex reproduction occurs through symbiosis with fungi. You can order bulk seeds for hibiscus, bird of paradise, plumeria, red ginger, and anthurium. Chances of plant survival are significantly increased if you start with cuttings or a starter plant, so we highly recommend beginning this way. Many companies based out of Hawaii will ship cuttings or starter plants right to your home.

Stayin' Alive

Once planted, plants need to be properly cared for. Here are some tips for some of the most popular types of tropical flowers.

• Anthurium should be placed in a well-lit area, but not in a place that receives direct sunlight. If not given enough light, plants will not flower. Anthuriums should be watered thoroughly and allowed to dry slightly before watering again. Don't, however, allow the soil to dry fully. Use a slow time-release fertilizer, such as Miracle Grow, after a few months. Monitor plants for pests such as aphids, scale, mealy bugs, and thrips.

• Orchids can be grown indoors without using a greenhouse. They should be allowed bright light to 50 percent sun in an area that receives 50 to 60 percent humidity. Keep orchids moist while actively growing, but allow drying between waterings during inactive periods. During active growth they should be fertilized regularly. For proper growth, mature plants need a 15 to 20 degree difference between night and day. At night, keep plants in a cool place (no cooler than 50 degrees).

• Hibiscus should be placed in a sunny area and sprayed with water once or twice a day. Hibiscus flowers can stain clothing, so use caution when handling plants. Make sure that these tropical plants are in a container that drains well. Add slow-release to the fertilizer in late winter. If night temperatures are above 55 degrees, you can keep your hibiscus outside.

Stuck on repeat

You may have noticed that the requirements for each plant vary only slightly. They each have the following in common, which applies to almost all tropical flowers:

• Humidity. Tropical flowers like humidity, and with that humidity, a lot of sunlight and a warm environment. Failure to produce a humid climate may result in lack of growth or the inability to produce flowers.

• Water. Even though most tropical plants should be kept moist, they also prefer a soil that has a good drainage system. Never let your plant sit in standing water.

• The right container. Tropical plants should be kept in plastic pots, rather than clay or terra-cotta pots. Plastic retains moisture better.

• Fertilizer. For continued growth and new flowers, fertilize during active growing periods