Phalaenopsis: Phalaenopsis also known as Moth Orchids are very rewarding and in the right conditions, they will reward the growers with months of showy blooms. If you are a beginner and are set to experiment with gardening this is the perfect flower to start with. They are easily available and are also very sturdy, as they can last for 4 months or more if proper care is provided. From pure whites to unusual spotted harlequins, Phalaenopsis are sure to please. Unlike many other orchids, Phalaenopsis can be repotted anytime, though it is usually best to do so when not in bloom. Phalaenopsis are low-light orchids and will thrive in an east window, or a shaded southerly or westerly exposure. They can be grown in most orchid potting media, such as chunks of pine bark, clay aggregate pellets, charcoal, perlite, sphagnum moss, and styrofoam.
Dendrobium: Native to Southeast Asia, the genus Dendrobium is one of the largest of all orchid groups
They are perfectly shaped, elegant-looking and are found in a variety of colours.There are about 1200 varieties of this flower that grow in all manner of climates, from hot, wet lowlands to high-altitude, colder mountains etc.
They are considered warm-house plants by growers as they require bright sunlight. They are long-lasting and can survive upto 6 weeks. They are extensively used in flower arrangements because of the elegance that they provide. They can easily thrive in hanging baskets with little or no potting media.
Cattleya: These are a pretty popular variety of orchids and comes in many shapes, sizes and colours along with its hybrid varieties.
These orchids like bright light and will not flower without sufficient light. They can even be acclimated to some direct sunlight, although you should avoid direct summer sunlight. In the right light conditions, the leaves are apple green.
They might not be aesthetically pleasing as the above-stated varieties, but their lovely fragrance is reason enough to have them. However not all Cattleya flowers are fragrant, so ask your grower if that’s a priority. These are found in colours of red, pink, white and yellow. The biggest mistake most people make with Cattleyas is not supplying enough light for the plant to bloom well and/or overwatering. If proper care is provided, they might bloom twice in a year.
Cattleya are not difficult plants, and their flowers are incredibly rewarding. Depending on the species, they may produce just a few showy flowers or bunches of smaller, waxy flowers.
Paphiopedilum: These orchids are best for indoors as they love low lighting and are easy to maintain. Known for their large sized blooms, these are a good variety to have even if you are a beginner. It is important to water these orchids in the morning. This ensures complete water evaporation on the foliage as well as the crown by nightfall, thus preventing bacteria and fungus rot. The best time for repotting is the spring or early summer or fall when temperatures are mild.
Oncidium
These flowers are perfect for pininterest boards. Commonly known as ‘Dancing lady orchids’ these flowers add an element of sophistication to any space. They ride high on popularity amongst the florists and the reason is their large sprays of flowers that often sag with dozens of blooms. They have a very strong fragrance and hence are a delight indoors. They grow best in bright light. They also have a very strong fragrance, so are great to have indoors. They grow best in bright light and require regular watering when they are in their growth stage. They can withstand considerable drought because of their large pseudobulbs.
Oncidiums are magnificent in bloom. A large, well-grown plant might send out six or seven-branched sprays of yellow flowers.
With this, we come to the end of this article. We hope that you quickly choose one of these orchids for your gardens and make it look even prettier!
Happy Gardening!
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