Orchid - facts and advice on care

Orchids grow wild in both Asia and Australia, where they cling to trees and catch lukewarm rainwater from the tree trunks. In Norway, the most common variety is the moth orchid (phalaenopsis). This comes in a variety of colors. There are myths that orchids are picky and difficult to care for, but the truth is that the plant is actually very easy to care for.

,Placement,The orchid loves light, but should not be placed in direct sunlight. It thrives well in room temperature between 18 and 25 degrees.,,Soil,The orchid should be planted in special orchid soil consisting of bark pieces with varying structures. This provides a porous material where the roots of the orchid thrive.,,Watering,When the roots appear gray and the orchid feels light, it is time to water it. This is generally done every fifth to twelfth day – less often during dormant periods and more often during growth periods.,,1. Place the flower in a bucket with room temperature water until it is thoroughly soaked.2. Lift the orchid up and let the water drain out.3. Before putting the plant back, fill the pot with decorative stones. Then fill water up to the edge of the stones. This provides high humidity, which the orchid loves!,,Nutrition,During flowering, orchid food is given once a month along with watering. There is special nutrition tailored for orchids, both in liquid form and as nutrient sticks. Follow the instructions on the package, and do not use too much.,,

See also: How to Succeed with Orchids (video)

An orchid needs regular watering to feel good, but preferably should not be standing in water for extended periods. Here are five tips that will help your orchid thrive better - and bloom again.,,1. Repotting,The orchid needs to be repotted when it starts growing out of the pot or when the compost in the soil is so degraded that it has lost its airiness. Use a transparent pot when repotting, as the roots like to be in a bright place.,,2. Prune the orchid,If you want the orchid to bloom repeatedly, you should cut away withered and dried stems. When the stem is brown, it's time to cut it off. The aerial roots gather water and provide energy to the plant, so do not cut these or other roots that are green.,,3. Change location,Have the leaves developed small, black spots? Then the orchid is in too strong sunlight. Change the placement, or provide shade for the plant.,,4. Increase humidity,Have a spray bottle nearby to provide the plant's leaves with increased humidity in dry indoor climates. Do not spray water directly on the flowers, as they are sensitive to moisture.,,5. Proper soil and nutrients,Accessories you should have for the plant to thrive optimally are orchid soil and the corresponding nutrients.