Better Blooming Orchids

What Does A Brassia Orchid Plant And A Spider Have In Common?

2005-10-21T08:42:00.000+01:00

By Robert Roy
What does a spider and an orchid plant have in common? Yes, Halloween is a special day. Brassia orchid plant is a name given to these spider orchids. Indeed, you can see the resemblance to the spider in this picture.
These beautiful orchids are from the Genus, Brassia, the spider orchid. The long and slender petals and septals are like spider legs.They are named in honor of William Brass, a 19th-century British botanical illustrator, this orchid grows in the wet forests of tropical Central and South America, but it is also comfortable in cultivation.
Many species in the genus Brassia orchid plants are pollinated by parasitic wasps, which normally lay their eggs on spiders. The patterns and structure of Brassia orchids resemble a spider in its web enough to encourage these wasps to lay their eggs in the plants' blossoms and in doing so pollinate them.
The flower spike will provide you with a number of these flowers which do resemble spiders along the spike. Brassias are crossed with Miltonia and Ondontoglossums to produce some very pretty orchid plants. Some have flowers that reach about 10 inches in diameter.
And did I mention they are extremely fragrant as well.
They are not hard to grow but do require some specific parameters for their growth. First, spider orchid plants do require either high intensity bright light. This can be diffuse light. They should not have the direct noon-time sunlight.
During the day and into their growth and blooming period they like temps between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. At night the temps for the Brassia orchid plant should be between 55 and 65. Just after their blooming period the Brassia orchid plant need a rest for several weeks. This means that the temperature should be kept on the lower end of the range, 55 - 60 degrees.
As far as watering, they need to be kept moist but not wet during their growing season. The growing period is during the development of the pseudopods which are flat and when the inflorescence (flower spike). After this period you should water only once a week.
Spider orchid plants do need both humidity and air circulation. The humidity is between 50-70%. This is a little higher than most orchids. For air circulation you can use a small fan, but don't point the fan on the plant.
Now when you remember or see a spider you can imagine the beautiful Brassia orchid plant.
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Cattleya Orchid Plants - Why They are Not Popular

2005-10-08T08:19:00.000+01:00

by Robert Roy

How popular is the cattleya orchid plants? Is it grown by hobbyists or not? How big is the flower? Before we get into the answers for these and other questions let's look at a bit of history of the cattleya. It is fascinating! Cattleya orchids have been named since the early 19th century. The earliest named cattleya was the Cattleya labiata.

Since then there has been a mystique about them. From the hobbyist perspective they are probably the most popular plant. The cattleya orchid plants have one of the largest flowers, 5 inches across. They are harder to grow as most of them flower only once per year. And the flowers last only about 2 - 3 weeks. Although the hobbyists are the ones particularly taken with cattleya plants now. They are becoming popular with non-hobbyist because of the size of the flower. These large flowers are exquisite and unique for corsages. For the cattleya orchid plants to become a main-stay of orchids several things are happening today. The new hybrids are lasting longer and they are blooming more than once per year. It has been shown that the orchids now can be bred for more frequent blooming.

This is important for the non-hobbyist who doesn't want the plant to be just leaves for 49 weeks a year. Cattleya orchids also will show the flower for more than 2-3 weeks and some of the hybrids have been shown to have flowers for up to 5 -6 weeks. Blooming more than once per year is important and actually has sponned another sub-industry. Some of the nurseries across the country will "board" your cattleya between blooming seasons. Currently the orchid registry in England has not added many hybrids.

Over the last 100+ years the numbers have been essentially stagnant. This means these orchid plants have been primarily in the hands of hobbyists and not the general public. Cattleya must be easier for folks to grow because most of us do not enjoy the benefits of a greenhouse. Indeed, cattleya orchid plants growers have been making some good progress in the frequency of cattleya blooming frequency and increasing the length of time that the flowers stay in bloom. I feel it will be over the next 2 - 5 years you will see the popularity of these beautiful plants increase.
About the Author
Bob Roy enjoys orchid plants and the great color combination they have. Subscribe to the Orchidaceae Newsletter and get your mini-ebook, "All About Orchids" plus a 10% discount on an orchid plant at http://www.orchids-plus-more.com/orchidaceae.html

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Orchid Care What The Flower Tells

2005-09-16T12:30:00.000+01:00

By Robert Roy

In Orchid Care The Flower Will Tell You About Some Diseases

Tale for orchid care the flower. The orchid flower is usually a thing of beauty. When diseases strike it can be tell - tale. Like the leaves, the flower can tell you a great deal. Let's take a look at what we will learn...

Spotting of Flowers

A sign of fungal infection or mold is pink or light brown spots on the flower. When you see either, orchid care will suggest to be careful with your other plants as the infection can spread to other plants.
Remove the orchid flowers that are affected. The remedy is to get more circulation.

Flowers With Punctures

Yes, those aphids can get at orchids, too. Also, some insects including Thrips.
Orchid care the flower suggests that the remedy is spray the orchid with malathion, but be careful and use a face mask.

Flowers With Mottled Colors

Here caring for orchids will strongly suggest a second opinion is necessary. The cause could be a color losing virus. Even if this is suspected then isolate the plant. If it is a virus then you need to destroy the plant.

Bruised Flowers

The causes of bruising are many. It could simply be from mechanical injury. If this is the case the area of damage will not increase or go on to other flowers.

But it could also be from slugs or even cockroaches. You may need to investigate and use some dust to bait them. If from cockroaches then diazinon or Sevin on the ground around the plant, on the plant and the pot as well.

Caring for orchids also shows that the bruising can be from red aphids. If so use the malathion treatment.

Rapid Wilting Of The Flower

If you see wilting of the flower, especially the dorsal or upper septal this can be caused by a sudden temperature change or pollination from an "unknown" pollinator. (I didn't think orchid flowers were that particular!!). The remedies are those that make sense, moderate the temp changes and remove the affected flowers. Not sure what to do for the unknown attacker.

Deformed Flowers

Caring for orchids is not complete without the a word about deformed orchids.

Common causes include;

low humidity or high temp when the buds were developing
mechanical or chemical injury during bud formation

the bud has acquired an unexplained deformity

the potential of a virus infection, (you see many of the flowers have the deformity). Need to isolate the plant.

Caring for orchids does involve looking at the "whole plant". In orchid care the flower is important.

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This site http://www.orchids-plus-more.com is devoted to these wonderful orchid plants. Did you know they are the second in popularity only to the poinsettia plants? You will find a good deal of information on how easy orchid care really is. They are wonderful to have around your home or for that special gift. Orchid flowers are beautiful and can last for years. Your plant will be appreciated for years and years.

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Easy Care Of Phalaenopsis

2005-09-02T08:40:00.000+01:00

By Robert Roy

Do you have a knack for being with moths? Most people would say, "no way". Yet, the moth orchids that I am talking about are the ones that sway nicely in the breeze and some of the newer hybrids have a nice fragrance. These moths are easy to care for, especially a beginner. These moths are found very frequently in gardens. These are the phalaenopsis orchids.

Phalaenopsis orchids are the one of the easiest orchids to care for in a home. Their blooms can last up to 3months and there are some of the most colorful hybrids. Like other orchids they require light, water, temperature, fertilizer and humidity. Seems like a lot but it really isn't

The best light is indirect light. It can be bright but not direct sunlight. If you have a west facing window sill this will do just fine. Direct sun can damage the leaves of the moth orchid.

Humidity is needed for the moth orchids. They actually grow in the wild in humid rain forests. In the warm months it would be nice to mist them every day or two. They also enjoy a bright bathroom.

Let's look at the temperatures that phals like. They are an intermediate temperature orchid. This means they like temperatures from 55 to 75 or 80 degrees. As a must, the must be a temperature gradient of 10 to 15 degrees for at least 14 days in the fall to stimulate their flower spike.

Moth orchids have no pseudopods to store water and for this reason they should not completely dry out. It is fine line to let them nearly dry out and at this point water them. You should be able to tell by seeing how light the plant is before you water it.

Another way is stick your finger tip down about an inch into the plant and it should feel almost dry. It is at this point you should water. Let the water run through the plant (in the top and out the bottom) for about 20 - 30 seconds. It is important that any orchid plant does not sit in water because it will get root rot.

Fertilize the plant twice a month with a week fertilizer solution. It is recommended to cut amount of fertilizer recommended by one half. Fertilize about every other week with a balanced fertilizer except durng the summer months of growth when you can use a high nitrogen fertilizer.

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Bamboo Orchids - a Little Different

2005-08-03T08:29:00.000+01:00

by Bob Roy
Bamboo Orchid PlantWhen you think of bamboo you really think of bamboo sticks, don't you?There is an orchid that grows wild in some of the warmer climates like Hawaii and Southeast Asia called the Bamboo Orchid Plant. This is a very pretty orchid plant that easily grows on the hillsides. Imagine having a bamboo orchid plants in your backyard that are growing behind your home. What a pretty site that would be. These orchids usually grow to 5-6 feet. The stems are actually the pseudobulbs. A new pseudobulb grows each year. One of the variety, Sobralia, can grow well in light shade as well. This genus doesn't grow as tall either. It usually tops out at about 4 feet.Temperature range is quite wide, from a low of 40 degrees to a high of 80+. You don't see the bamboo orchid plant very much in the cooler climates of the Northeast or North Central states. If any they are usually indoor plants or out in the summer only.My wife has one of these that is still quite small, but this summer she is putting it outside just to see what it will do. Bamboo orchid plants need to stay moist. Do not allow them to dry out. Humidity is also very good for them as well. So if indoors you should be sure the humidity is about 50%. If not you can use a humidity tray. Fertilize them about every other week with a weak, diluted solution. Some people can have flowers on their orchids all year round. We haven't had that luck. And the flowers are fragrant.If you can get one of the bamboo orchid plant I am sure that you will be able to see it grow. Imagine, growing a five foot orchid!
About the Author
This site http://www.orchids-plus-more.com is devoted to these wonderful orchid plants. Did you know they are the second in popularity only to the poinsettia plants? You will find a good deal of information on how easy orchid care really is. They are wonderful to have around your home or for that special gift. Orchid flowers are beautiful and can last for years. Your plant will be appreciated for years and years.

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Care of Dendrobium Orchids

2005-07-29T04:00:00.000+01:00

By Robert Roy
Dendrobiums
This month I am focusing our attention to the care of Dendrobiums. These are one of the most popular of retail orchid plants. They are a true epiphyte or air plant. There pseudopods can gather and hold water very efficiently. Generally there will be a hybrid phalaenopsis and dendrobium, commonly known as Dtps.
Potting
This needs only to be done every two to three years and it should be with a porous, free draining media. This may be a combination of wood chips, small stone and and pieces of styrofoam peanuts. This will allow the draining of water and fertilizer. Dendrobiums seem to grow best when the pot is smaller than the size of the orchid plant.
Lighting
The dendrobium orchids require about 50% sun or bright light. They will do well in an east or west window as well as a shaded south window.
They also do well under 4 - 40 watt fluorescent lights directly over the plant.
Temperature
These plants need a difference in temperature between the night and day. Preferably this difference should be about 10 - 15 degrees. The night temps they like is 60-65 with days between 80 - 90.
Air circulation is needed and is especially when the temps are above 90 degrees.
Water
Like most orchids Dendrobiums need to be kept moist while actively growing. When it is mature, as are most of orchids-plus-more.com plants they should dry between watering.
Dendrobiums thrive when the humidity is about 50 - 60%. Humidity trays are usually needed while the plant is in the home.
Fertilizer
Use a balance fertilizer like Jack's Classic 20-20-20. Use weakly, weekly. That is, use a solution which is between 1/4 to 1/2 the recommended dosage.
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This site is devoted to these wonderful orchid plants. Did you know they are the second in popularity only to the poinsietta plants? You will find a good deal of information on how easy orchid care really is. They are wonderful to have around your home or for that special gift. Orchid flowers are beautiful and can last for months. Your plant will be appreciated for years and years.
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The Incredible Daylily

2005-07-22T08:42:00.000+01:00

by Donna Evans
Some people have referred to daylilies as the poor man’s orchid. Indeed, daylilies, like orchids, are a beauty to behold. Daylilies are no longer just the muted yellow and orange plants grown in road ditches. They come in every color from white to deep purple (almost black) and in a variety of sizes. If you don’t’ have a green thumb, daylilies are the perfect plant. They are relatively carefree and can turn an unused, dull area, into a stunning bed of color and texture. Daylilies flourish almost anywhere. They are also an excellent plant to use for erosion control, such as on a slope that is difficult to mow, and also as a ground cover plant.There are indeed a lot of the common yellow and orange daylilies around. However, there are some spectacular varieties that you should keep an eye out for:Black Eyed Susan: A real standout in the garden. This daylily has rich yellow-orange petals with a maroon and dark orange throat. Bama Bound: This daylily has a deep reddish color giving it a satin like appearance. Little Grapette: A miniatured sized daylily with grape-purple petals and a green throat. Beauty to Behold: A light lemon colored daylily with a green throat. The flowers are satin in appearance. The flowers are nocturnal; the day’s flowers actually open up the night before.Hyperion: This daylily has been around for over 80 years. The canary yellow flowers have a trumpet shape and are treasured for their delicate fragrance.
About the Author
Donna Evans is co-owner of Gizmo Creations, a landscape design firm located just north of Brainerd, Minnesota. Gizmo Creations has a over 20 years of experience in landscape design. Their award winning website has numerous tips and articles on landscape design.

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The Care of Cattleya Orchids

2005-07-17T08:10:00.000+01:00

By Robert Roy
Cattleya Care: a bit more in-depth.
This month we are going to go into some detail about the care of cattleya orchids. These orchids are probably the easiest to care for and like all plants need water, light and fertilizer. Playing some nice music or talking to them doesn't hurt either.
Most of the wild cattleyas grow in rain forests of South America, namely in Argentina, Bolivia, Paraguay and Mexico. They flourish in the Andes from altitudes near sea level to high altitudes of 9 - 10,000 feet. These orchids are truly epiphytes or air plants. So, they are used to being partly covered by the canopy of the rain forest and get considerable humidity and bright light to grow.
Being in the forest as noted above they are used to diffuse light all be it bright light. They generally do not have direct mid day sunlight. The bright light helps them to develop hard pseudopods. The pseudopods are the orchids main way to hold water which is so important for their growth and life. It is from the pseudopods that the orchid flowers come from.
Being in the forest and at various altitudes there are a wide range of temperatures that these plants are used to. In the winter and higher altitudes these plants become accustom to temps which can go as low as 50 - 55 degrees in the winter and as high as 80-90 degrees in the summer.
Humidity is the friend to cattleyas. We can understand this from being in rain forests. Most cattleyas do well with being set on humidity trays. These are metal or plastic trays that are filled with pepples and then half full with water. The plant roots cannot sit in water for a long period of time or else they will get root rot. Allow for good air circulation but not sitting in direct aim of an air vent.
Generally, watering twice a week does well during their growth and flowering period and once a week during their period of rest. Cattleyas are orchids that can and should get dry between watering. This aids in the growth of healthy pseudopods. Be sure that the potting medium allow the water to drain out fairly rapidly.
To check to see if a plant needs water stick your finger about 1 inch into the potting material and see if it comes out dry or damp. If dry it needs watering. If damp it may be able to go another day or two without water.
When watering allow the water to flow into the plant and then drain right out into the sink and not into the humidity tray. You can let the water water flow onto the plant for about 20-30 seconds and the pseudopods will get enough water for storage.
If plants are blossom in the winter or spring this means that these orchid plants deserve a rest period of about 6 to 8 weeks. During this time water them about once a week and keep the lighting the same.
If the plants blossom in the summer time no rest period is needed.
Fertilizing should take place about every other week with a balanced formula like 20-20-20. If the plant is flowering you can fertilize with a blossoming mixture with a higher nitrogen factor, e.g. 30-10-10.
With these rather easy steps you will get many years of joy from your cattleya orchid plants.
Our site is devoted to these wonderful orchid plants. Did you know they are the second in popularity only to the poinsietta plants? You will find a good deal of information on how easy orchid care really is. They are wonderful to have around your home or for that special gift. Orchid flowers are beautiful and can last for months. Your plant will be appreciated for years and years.
http://www.orchids-plus-more.com/orchid-contact.html
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Care of Slipper Orchids

2005-07-01T05:08:00.000+01:00

by Bob Roy
Yes, Slipper Orchid Care Is Little TrickyBut Read On and You Can Do ItSlipper orchid care for these orchids is a little more difficult than cattleyas but you can be successful. To me slipper orchids are one of the prettiest orchids around. They have this waxy sheen to them and the petals and lips are thicker than most orchids.The one feature that sets slipper orchids apart from others is the lip. It forms a cup like pouch . Another part of the slipper orchid that sets them apart is the uppermost sepal which looks like an inverted heart. The lower sepals may be almost completely hidden from view by the pouch.Slipper orchids bloom singly for the most part. They generally flower from autumn to spring although there are now hybrids that can bloom at anytime during the year. As beautiful as these orchids are I need to tell you about slipper orchid care.These paph orchids have no water storing features on them. And they are generally terrestrial,soil growing, growing in the shade of the forest floor where they can always be moist. So watering needs to be available constantly. Paph orchid care requires that they be moist and never dry or soggy.Paphs are unique, they are both warm growing and cool growing plants. Slipper orchid care will alter a little because of the two different types of paphs.The warm growing need temperatures from 60 - 65 degrees to 75 -85 degrees. Whereas the cool growing orchid paphs need temps from 50 - 55 all the way up to 75 - 80 degrees. These orchids can also do well with a constant temperatures and the cool growing ones can stand temps into the 40's if needed for a short time.Those paphs which have green leaves are usually the cool climate ones, whilst those with mottled leaves are warm growing ones.As most orchids, slipper orchids require humidity between 40 - 60%, remember they usually grow on the rain forest floor. This may need to be augmented by using humidity trays. You can get a flat tray with sides. Fill the tray with stone pebbles and then add water about half way up. Place the plant on the tray making sure that the slipper orchid roots are not touching the water. If it does there is a good chance for root rot.Because they grow in shade on the forest floor they should not be left in sunlight for very long. They do prefer shade, under a tree or near an east window. This is one of the nice elements of slipper orchid care.Fertilizer is needed and I recommend 1/4 strength given on a weekly basis. The fertilizer should be high in nitrogen so one with30-10-10 ratio is best. Monthly rinse the slipper orchids with water alone to prevent the fertilizer from building up on the root and potentially burning them.One final point on slipper orchid care, you should re-pot infrequently, that is, about every second year is fine. You should use a mixture which has an excellent moisture retention like fir bark with perlite and some sphagnum moss.Following these rather straight forward rules will give you years of enjoyment with you slipper orchid.See our beautful paphs,now that you feel more comfortable with slipper orchid care, treat yourself.
About the Author
Bob's website is devoted to orchid plants. There is a great deal of information on the website, www.orchids-plus-more.com
, as well as a large selection of stunning orchids.

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Orchid Growing for Beginners

2005-06-24T09:10:00.000+01:00

by Bob Roy
Yes, growing orchids for beginners is very easy. They are like any other house plants, they need water, light, fertilizer and, oh yes, you should talk to them or even play some music.Get a complete Orchid Growing Guide with the Purchase of any Orchid Plant. Here is what you get with the courseCheck out our specials - Free Shipping - in The Orchid StoreOne of the long standing myths that I still hear is that growing orchids as house plants are difficult and finicky to grow. Well, plain and simple, the answer is No. In fact, care for orchids as house plants are easy to grow and will continue to bloom for years. Some orchid plants have been around for centuries.Here are some highlights you can use as a guide to growing orchids for beginners.WateringOne of the two top items in growing orchids for beginners is Water. The other is light. Orchid house plants and orchid plants in general will need watering periodically, usually you can water once a week. Remember, most orchids are air plants and this means you will see their roots. Their root system, especially the pseudpods, are very efficient in storing water.Here is a watering guide you can use: Cattleya, oncidium and dendrobium orchids like to dry out between watering. An easy way to water is to put the plant in the sink and let water flow through the plant for about 20-30 seconds. Remember, let the water drain from the plant before putting it back into the decorative pot.Plhalaenopsis orchids like to almost dry out between watering. To decide on the next watering is to stick your finger about an inch into the medium which should feel spongy and not bone dry.Growing orchids like Paphiopedilum and epidendrum should be slightly moist so that watering can be twice a week.HumidityIf the humidity in your home is low (below 40%) you may need to either mist the plant occasionally or use a humidity tray. The tray is simply a metal or plastic tray that is filled with pebbles and 1/2 of water. The plant would sit would sit on the pebbles. Be sure not to let the plant or roots sit in the water while on the tray.The Right LightingGrowing orchids for beginners requires the right light. It is the next most important element to growing orchid plants. As a general statement most orchid house plants do well in medium light. This would in a window or an area that could get about 4 hours of sun or bright light a day. Cattleya orchids do well in this light but can also do well in a sunlit area for up to six hours. Phals do well in indirect but bright light.What about temperature?Most orchids do well in normal house temperature. The low temperature at night do not impede the growth. Here is a little guide you can use. Growing orchids for beginners should understand that there needs to be fluctuation in temperatures in order for the plants to bloom. For example, there should be about 10 degree fluctuation for cattleyas between the day and night temps.Orchid Genre Minimum temp Degrees F Maximum temp Degrees FPhalaenopsisVanda60 90Paphiopedilum (mottle leaf)DendrobiumCattleya,Epidendum55 85Paphiopedilum (green leaf)OncidiumMiltonia50 80
About the Author
Bob's interest in orchids is evident in the depth of his orchid website, www.orchids-plus-more.com with its manhy informational articles. There is also a large selection of stunning orchids.
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Orchid Myths -The Truth

2005-06-16T19:51:00.000+01:00

By Robert Roy
Here are some of the popular orchid myths
#1 Orchids are Carnivorous
They are not, in fact, they pollinate by luring insects to them but they do not eat the insects. This helps the orchid gardening
Orchid Myths#2 Orchids come from the Tropics
Some orchid flowers do come from the tropical climates but they grow in any climate and in any country, even Alaska.
#3 Orchids are Expensive.
Not anymore. Now with the increased number of orchid gardening and growers, the modern reproductive methods orchids now are reasonably priced.
#4 Orchids are Hard to Grow.
This orchid myths is now furthest from the truth. They are not anymore difficult than any other plant. They need the basics, water, light, air and fertilizer. And you can have a beautful orchid flowers that last for years.
Some Orchid Questions
#1 Are all orchids the same?
On the contrary o what most florists want you to believe, they come in over 28,000 varieties, they are the largest plant family. There are estimates of 110,000 hybrids today. They grow from thimble size (Mystacidium) to over 20 feet tall (Renanthera storei)
#2 What soil do they grow in?
Most orchids require no soil. In nature orchids are divided into 4 classes;
Epiphytes air plants (majority of orchids) grow on trees
Lithophytes air plants grow on rock surfaces
Saprophytes air plants grown on decaying vegetation
Terrestrials ground plants grow in soil
#3 Do orchids only last a short time?
On the contrary most species can last for years if taken care of. There are some plants which were propagated in the 18th century and continue to live today.
#4 How often do they bloom?
It varies according to the variety and hybrid but they can bloom from once to 2 - 4 times a year. The blossoms can last for weeks to months which is a real plus.
#5 How old is my plant?
Orchids can take years to come to maturity and bloom. Typically, the plants are anywhere from 5 to 8 years old.
#6 Is conservation of orchids important?
According to the American Orchid Society this is a priority. Threats to orchids come primarily from loss of habitat and collecting. The AOS encourages the purchase of only artificially propagated orchids.
#7 Should orchids be protected from a draft? This could be another orchid myths, but the answer is no, orchids prefer moving air but should not be over a heating or air conditioning vent.
Bob Roy has an orchid site with many articlea and information on orchids. His website is quite popular, www.orchids-plus-more.com. You will also see a large selection of stunning orchids
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Growing Orchids as House Plants

2005-06-09T08:22:00.000+01:00

By Robert Roy
One of the long standing myths that I still hear is that orchid house plants are difficult and finicky to grow. Well, plain and simple, the answer is No. In fact, orchids as house plants are easy to grow and will continue to bloom for years. Some orchid plants have been around for centuries.
Watering
Orchid house plants and orchid plants in general will need watering periodically, usually you can water once a week. Remember, most orchids are air plants and this means you will see their roots. Their root system is very efficient in storing water.
Here is a watering guide you can use: Cattleya, oncidium and dendrobium orchids like to dry out between watering. An easy way to water is to put the plant in the sink and let water flow through the plant for about 1 minute. Remember, let the water drain from the plant before putting it back into the decorative pot.
Plhalaenopsis orchids like to almost dry out between watering. To decide on the next watering is to stick your finger about an inch into the moss which should feel spongy and not bone dry.
Paphiopedilum and epidendrum should be slightly moist so that watering can be twice a week.
Humidity
If the humidity in your home is low (below 40%) you may need to either mist the plant occasionally or use a humidity tray. The tray is simply a metal or plastic tray that is filled with pebbles and 1/2 of water. The plant would sit would sit on the pebbles. Be sure not to let the plant or roots sit in the water while on the tray.
The Right Lighting
Light is the next most important element to growing orchid plants. As a general statement most orchid house plants do well in medium light. This would in a window or an area that could get about 4 hours a day. Cattleya orchids do well in this light but can also do well in a sunlit area for up to six hours. Phals do well in indirect but bright light.
More in depth information is included in theOrchid Growing Course, free with the purchase of an orchid plant.
What about temperature?
Most orchids do well in normal house temperature. The low temperature at night do not impede the growth. Here is a little guide you can use.
Orchid Genre Minimum temp Degrees F Maximum temp Degrees F
Phalaenopsis 60 90
Vanda
Paphiopedilum (mottle leaf) 55 85
Dendrobium
Cattleya,
Epidendum
Paphiopedilum (green leaf) 50 80
Oncidium
Miltonia
So, you too can join the millions and a grow orchids just as successful as your neighbor.
Bob Roy has a e business in orchids. There are many oarticles dealing with orchids on his web site, orchids-plus-more.com as well as a large selection of stunning orchid plants.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

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A Unique, Fun and Easy to Make Hanging Overall Planter Flower Basket. A new Craft Made From Children's Blue Jean Overalls

2005-06-02T08:42:00.000+01:00

"Oh, isn't that cute!" is what everyone says when they see the children's Overalls made into a hanging flower basket. Everyone wants to know how to make one of their own. At a recent Southern California flower arrangement competition the Overall Planter received a First Place ribbon for Best Artistic Arrangement. The contestant, Jorge Ochoa of Los Angeles, used a variety of bromeliads and mosses to create an outstanding flower arrangement with the Overall Planter. This craft is a new and fun way to display flowers and plants. Live or silk plants can be used to create unique and beautiful floral displays. Anyone who loves plants and flowers will love this new and unique craft. The Overall Planter is so easy to make and lasts for years. To learn how to make the Overall Planter visit Mary's website at: http:www.thehappyhorticulturist.com or inquire by email at thehappyhorticulturist@yahoo.com. Instructions on how to make the adorable Overall Planters are available. Mary has many fun and unique gardening crafts on her website for you to enjoy creating.

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Flower Meanings & History of Flowers

2005-05-28T12:09:00.000+01:00

by Josh Grossman
Flower Meanings & HistoryThe charming and delicate beauty of flowers has fascinated people of all nations and backgrounds for centuries. Flowers have been bred and cultivated for their decorative beauty as well as their ability to heal diseases. Flowers are the subject of poems and myths, and religious symbols are associated with flowers as well. Many girls are named after flowers. The main reason for the popularity of flowers though is their ability to bring good cheer. For all fellow lovers and admirers of flowers here is some background information about flowers. This will help give your flower gift giving and buying a greater context. AstersThere are over 600 species of asters, the most popular being the Monte Casino. Ancient societies believed that the odor of its leaves, when burnt, drove away serpents. While this might not be as applicable today, perhaps its connotation is still relevant: Giving asters means, "I am not sure whether you have been faithful to me". Be careful who you send asters to! Meanings: charming, patienceBells of IrelandAlthough the name suggests these flowers come from Ireland, they originated in western Asia. Bells of Ireland have a spicy/peppery scent and are part of the mint family. They stand for good luck. Meanings: good luck, whimsyCarnationsTurn of the century dandies would not leave the house without a white or red carnation in the buttonhole of their suit. With the end of this tradition and the fact that carnations are so easily cultivated and grown, the flower has lost some of its popularity. However, carnations are not only beautiful and long lasting flowers, they also send a message: When you receive a red carnation bouquet, it means, "My heart aches for you" and when you receive white carnations the sender is saying: "I am still available." Meanings: fascination, devoted LoveChrysanthemumImagine, chrysanthemums have been cultivated in Chinese gardens for almost 3000 years! The name chrysanthemum comes from the Greek chrysos (gold) and anthos (flower). Today some of the meanings associated with this flower are: innocence, cheerfulness and loyal love. Meanings: cheerfulness, innocenceDahliasThe dahlia is the national flower of Mexico and this is also its birthplace. An old Aztec document states that the Aztecs used dahlias as a treatment for epilepsy. Only in the 19th century did the flower come to Europe where it was bred and cultivated into today's varieties. Meanings: dignity, eleganceIrisDid you know that there are so many different varieties of iris that they can be grown wild year round, in water and on land? Iris was most significant in history as the emblem of France -- Fleur-de-Lis -- established in the 11th century by the king of France. Today, it is the state flower of Tennessee and its meanings are faith, hope and wisdom. Meanings: faith, hope, wisdomLiliesLilies have been associated with many ancient myths. They are mentioned in the Old Testament, and in the New Testament, and symbolize chastity and virtue. Even today, lilies are associated with purity and faith. Meanings: purity, faithPeruvian lilies or alstroemeria are named after the Swedish botanist Baron Klas von Alstroemer. He brought the flower seeds back from a trip to South America in the 18th century. Meanings: friendship, devotionCalla lilies were first imported from South Africa to America in the mid-nineteenth century. The waxy white blooms and spearheaded leaves of the calla lily stand for radiant beauty and sophistication. Meanings: sophistication, beautyLisianthusLisianthus may sound like a Latin name, but it is one of several common names associated with this plant. It is also referred to as Prairie Gentian, Prairie Rose or Texas Bluebell. The flowers existing today are derived from an American wildflower that is native to prairies ranging from Colorado to Nebraska and down to Texas. Meanings: outgoing, thoughtsOrchidsDuring the 19th Century, orchids were widely collected. With nearly 25,000 varieties, some orchids are among the most exquisite and expensive flowers available. In antiquity, orchids were correlated with love and fertility. It was common knowledge that they would protect against diseases. Given as a gift they stand for preciousness and seduction. Meanings: seduction, preciousnessSnapdragonsSnapdragons are an old decorative flower, widely used by the Romans. From its origin in southern Spain the cultivated form was spread throughout the whole Roman Empire. Nowadays remnants of this original population which all belong to the species Antirrhinum majus are found among Roman remains like temples in southern France, Malta, and Italy. The flower, also called "gracious lady" stands for deception. Meanings: desire, strengthRosesWith their far-reaching popularity, roses are the queens of flowers. After buttercup, the roses are the second oldest variety of flowers on the planet. Biologists can trace roses back some 200 million years! Although there is a huge number of meanings and symbols associated with roses, the most common of course is love, which originated in Greek mythology. When Aphrodite cried about the death of her lover Adonis, she had red "Adonis Roses" grown with his blood, - thus red roses are the symbol of never-ending love. Important to mention are the roses' thorns, of which we all probably have some painful memory. Symbolically, love can be painful and full of suffering when not treated carefully. Red roses: I love you, unconscious beautyWhite roses: spiritual love, purityYellow roses: joy, gladnessOrange roses: fascinated, enthusiasticPink roses: grace, gentility TulipsOriginally from Persia, tulips were introduced to Western Europe and the Netherlands in the 17th century. When growers started to hybridize the flower, they found ways of making it even more decorative. Hybrids of the flower were a scarcity at the time and a symbol of high status. Soon tulips became very popular as a trading product and bulbs were traded at the highest prices. The months of late 1636 to early 1637 would make history in the Netherlands as "Tulipmania". A bed of tulips was worth up to $5,000, the value of a small house in Amsterdam. The bulbs became currency, and their value was quoted at the stock market. Meanings: perfect lover, fameSunflowersSunflowers turn their heads toward the sun and this how they got their common name. They originated in Central and South America. Sunflowers are not only pretty to look at but sunflower seeds are power-packed with healthy fats, protein, fiber, minerals, and vitamin E - all important to the nutritional quality of your diet. Wait! That doesn't mean you're supposed to eat the seeds out of your sunflower bouquet. Meanings: adoration, sunshine
About the Author
Josh Grossman is cofounder of online florist, Beyond Blossoms (http://www.beyondblossoms.com). Beyond Blossoms ships farm fresh flower bouquets nationwide.

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Caring For Tropical And Exotic Flowers

2005-05-22T12:58:00.000+01:00

By Gerry T. Belvedere
Tropical flowers make an exciting change from the more traditional floral gifts such as roses and gerberas, assuming that they're available in your area. Their stark and colorful beauty makes them an impressive gift for special occasions like Mother's Day, Valentine's Day, birthdays and anniversaries.
If you're lucky enough to grow tropical flowers such as heliconias or gingers in your garden, here are some tips to help them thrive and to extend their shelf life as cut flowers.
1. Water your plants well and give them a big drink before cutting. This is important for foliage plants as well because some varieties “drink” very little after cutting. Instead, they live off their own sap.
Tropical plants have adapted to their natural environment which typically involves frequent but short periods of heavy rain.
Look at the flower heads and notice how the petals are “cupped” to catch and store as much water as possible. These plants drink from the top and like being wet.
Look at the pattern on the leaves. The ridges channel water down to the stem where it's absorbed into the many layers of the plant.
2. If your flowers have been out of water for any length of time after cutting, submerge them in the bath for half an hour or so.
3. Cut 3 to 4 inches off the stem and then place them in a tall vase FULL of clean water.
4. Use a spray bottle to mist them at least twice a day.
5. Change the water and re-cut the stems every 2 or 3 days.
You can double the vase life of your cut flowers by using these simple techniques.
© Gerry BelvedereGerry Belvedere is a former artist who now runs her own florist service at http://www.rosaflora-flowers.com
Rosaflora delivers flowers Australia wide and overseas and offers tips on getting the most out of your cut flowers. You can view some of her tropical arrangements at http://www.rosaflora-flowers.com/special-event.html
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

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Care of Moth Orchids

2005-05-13T21:39:00.000+01:00

by Robert Roy, orchids-plus-more.com
Do you have a knack for being with moths? Most people would say, "no way". Yet, the moth orchids that I am talking about are the ones that sway nicely in the breeze and some of the newer hybrids have a nice fragrance. These moths are easy to care for, especially a beginner. These moths are found very frequently in gardens. These are the phalaenopsis orchids.Phalaenopsis orchids are the one of the easiest orchids to care for in a home. Their blooms can last up to 3months and there are some of the most colorful hybrids. Like other orchids they require light, water, temperature, fertilizer and humidity. Seems like a lot but it really isn'tThe best light is indirect light. It can be bright but not direct sunlight. If you have a west facing window sill this will do just fine. Direct sun can damage the leaves of the moth orchid.Humidity is needed for the moth orchids. They actually grow in the wild in humid rain forests. In the warm months it would be nice to mist them every day or two. They also enjoy a bright bathroom.Let's look at the temperatures that phals like. They are an intermediate temperature orchid. This means they like temperatures from 55 to 75 or 80 degrees. As a must, the must be a temperature gradient of 10 to 15 degrees for at least 14 days in the fall to stimulate their flower spike. Moth orchids have no pseudopods to store water and for this reason they should not completely dry out. It is fine line to let them nearly dry out and at this point water them. You should be able to tell by seeing how light the plant is before you water it.Another way is stick your finger tip down about an inch into the plant and it should feel almost dry. It is at this point you should water. Let the water run through the plant (in the top and out the bottom) for about 20 - 30 seconds. It is important that any orchid plant does not sit in water because it will get root rot.Fertilize the plant twice a month with a week fertilizer solution. It is recommended to cut amount of fertilizer recommended by one half. Fertilize about every other week with a balanced fertilizer except durng the summer months of growth when you can use a high nitrogen fertilizer.
This article may be duplicated as long as credit is given to this author and the orchids-plus-more.com

About the AuthorThis site http://www.orchids-plus-more.com is devoted to these wonderful orchid plants. Did you know they are the second in popularity only to the poinsettia plants? You will find a good deal of information on how easy orchid care really is. They are wonderful to have around your home or for that special gift. Orchid flowers are beautiful and can last for years. Your plant will be appreciated for years and years.

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Orchids Are One Of Nature's Most Beautiful Flowers

2005-05-05T07:26:00.000+01:00

By Mike Yeager
Orchids are beautiful flowers. The interesting thing about orchids is that they seem to draw people to them. There is hardly another plant or flower that has been able to capture the attention and desire of people the way orchids have. In the past orchids have been hunted and collected in almost every part of the world. Today there are millions of people who are absolutely devoted to the plant and its beautiful "faces."
It’s estimated that there are nearly 20 thousand varieties of orchids. They grow in many different climates and regions. There are some important factors to consider when growing your orchids. Light is probably the single most important factor in determining whether or not your plants will bloom. The appropriate amount of light is necessary for proper plant growth and nutrient storage. Without the right light levels, your plant either cannot produce enough food stores to power a blooming cycle. Too much light may burn the orchid and too little light will not support its needs.
An interesting feature of growing orchids is that a plant can live for a long time even with light that is less than ideal, but you probably won't have any flowers. On the other side thought a large and healthy plant that has grown for a long time without enough light will often put on an impressive display once given proper lighting. This means that orchids are very durable and resilient.
As you seek to grow the perfect orchid, take your time and look around as you decide where in your garden you’d like to grow orchids. It will be well worth the patient time and effort you put in to see splendid, beautiful orchids in full bloom.
About The Author
Mike Yeager, Publisher
http://www.a1-flowers-4u.com/
mjy610@hotmail.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/

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Orchid News

2005-04-23T06:58:00.000+01:00

Orchids Threatened by Habitat Destruction and Illegal Trade
Experts gathering here today as part of Europe's largest orchid fair, launched an action plan to conserve the world's orchids. The plan, produced by the Orchid Specialist Group of the World Conservation Union (IUCN), notes that although there are around 20,000 species of orchids, most are confined to rainforests and other habitats presently being degraded. This, coupled with the fact that more than one million orchids are taken from the wild and traded, could mean that some of these beautiful and economically important flowers are facing renewed threats.
Dr. Wendy Strahm, a plant conservation expert with the Species Survival Commission of IUCN, noted "We have taken the opportunity that this fair offers to bring together the world's leading orchid specialists because we need to discuss, and more importantly, act, on what should be done to protect these wonderful plants. Although many of us admire orchids, and some of us may even grow them at home, the truth is that we know relatively little about these plants. There is a dire need to conduct further research on orchid biology and ecology, as well as educate the public about the threats they face. But most importantly, this orchid show demonstrates that there is a major industry based on the genetic diversity of wild plants, many of which are on the path to extinction in their native habitats. Apart from rare cases, the industry is not putting money back into conserving the plants in the wild. The challenge now is to determine ways in which people who love orchids, and whose business is orchids, can actually play a major role in their conservation."
Dr. Strahm noted that with the growing trade in orchids worldwide, there has been an increase in the amount of orchids taken from the wild and sold internationally. This can often pose a serious threat to certain species of orchid which exist only in isolated areas. She noted that between 1983 and 1989 the average number of orchids traded annually, according to the latest figures available, was 4,996,508. Of these, around 80% were recorded as having been propagated artificially, which means that around one million were collected from the wild. "These numbers", continued Strahm, "just reflect official trade figures produced by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), and do not even begin to count the number of orchids sold inside countries which is significant. In addition, the trade in orchids has grown tremendously over the past years, and while the majority of plants are artificially propagated, there is still a large number of plants which are being collected from the wild."
Vinciane Dumont, the Deputy Chair of IUCN's Orchid Specialist Group who is helping organise the orchid exhibit in Geneva and was co-editor of the Action Plan, agrees: "One of the main reasons why we are holding this fair is to try to educate people about the need to ensure that the orchids they buy for their homes do not come from the wild. We see this as an important educational exercise. We will also stress that if people want to continue to enjoy the beauty of orchids, then they will need to protect the places where orchids live. That means protecting rainforests in the tropics which are home to most of the world's orchids."
According to the IUCN Action Plan, orchids are among the world's most diverse and widely distributed plants. They are found everywhere except the poles. "Orchids are masters of adaptability," commented David McDowell, Director General of IUCN. "You have orchids that range from the microscopic to the gigantic. Orchids that grow on trees, in the ground, on rocks, and some that are even subterranean. But now our destruction of major habitats is having an impact even on these wonderfully flexible and widespread plants. The good news is that conservation of orchid habitats is also good for the conservation of scores of other plants and animals that share that habitat. Orchids have many fans among the general public and, at IUCN, our hope is that this affection will push us to consider how best to conserve the orchid's habitats before it is too late."
The IUCN report emphasises that there are essentially two threats to orchids: habitat alteration or destruction, and the illegal extraction of wild plants for trade. These two types of threat affect different species of orchids. On the one hand, illegal collection for trade affects mostly those orchids that either produce very showy flowers or provide certain edible products (e.g. salep). "Some examples of orchids threatened by illegal trade," according to Dr. Phillip Cribb of the Royal Botanic Garden in Kew, UK, "include certain species of slipper orchids of the genus Paphiopedilum, which have long been the main targets for orchid collectors in South-East Asia. They have restricted distribution and it has been estimated that 26 of the 60 species of this orchid (over 40%) are seriously endangered in the wild."
"Unlike trade," adds Dr. Cribb, "habitat loss affects a wide range of orchids and is, without a doubt, the main threat to orchids as a whole."
According to the IUCN Action Plan, the species of orchids that are most threatened are those that are found in only one part of the world, or rely on one particular species of bird or insect for their pollination. Dr. Strahm concluded by saying, "What we have to remember about orchids is that what makes them interesting is the way they have specialized to attract the birds and insects that pollinate them. This specialization means that without the insects, the plants will not reproduce, and without the habitat, the insects don't survive. So we are not just talking about protecting one species, or even a group of species; we are talking about protecting the entire web of life on which these plants depend."
The main recommendations found in the orchid action plan of IUCN which urgently require action by governments, with the help of orchid lovers and the orchid industry, include:
The preparation of educational programmes on orchids and their role in biodiversity by orchid societies and botanical gardens for the general public;
The preparation of a global checklist of orchid species and the identification of areas of high biodiversity;
The development of legislation and funding to protect, research, and properly monitor these areas;
Ensuring the availability of propagation material of rare and new species for commercial development, preferably in those countries where the species are native, thereby reducing the demand for wild-collected plants.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For more information or to arrange interviews, contact:
Ricardo Bayón,Special Assistant to the Director General,IUCN, Rue Mauverney 28, 1196 Gland,Switzerland
Tel: (41 22) 999 0288Fax: (41 22) 999 0029E-mail: rbayon@iucnus.org

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Orchid Festival

2005-04-13T07:42:00.000+01:00

The Ann Arbor Orchid FestivalApril 16th and 17th, 2005Free Admission - Open to the Public Matthaei Botanical Garden1800 North Dixboro RoadAnn Arbor, MISaturday April 16th 10:00am to 4:30 pm. (Exhibits Open At Noon)Sunday April 17th 10:00 am to 4:30 pm
Featuring:Orchid growers selling a wide variety of exotic orchid plants in bloom. Breathtaking exhibits of orchids in bloom from area societies and growers.Free informative talks and interesting demonstrations on orchid care.
The Ann Arbor Orchid Society is pleased to invite everyone to come and enjoy the beautiful setting of the Matthaei Botanical Garden and the 2004 Ann Arbor Orchid Festival.CLICK HERE FOR PRESS RELEASE PHOTO
For More Information: annarboros@aol.com
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Orchids - Your # 1 Site For Orchids

2005-03-27T19:12:00.000+01:00

Orchids Are One Of Nature's Most Beautiful Flowers

By: Mike Yeager
Orchids are beautiful flowers. The interesting thing about orchids is that they seem to draw people to them. There is hardly another plant or flower that has been able to capture the attention and desire of people the way orchids have. In the past orchids have been hunted and collected in almost every part of the world. Today there are millions of people who are absolutely devoted to the plant and its beautiful "faces."

It’s estimated that there are nearly 20 thousand varieties of orchids. They grow in many different climates and regions. There are some important factors to consider when growing your orchids. Light is probably the single most important factor in determining whether or not your plants will bloom. The appropriate amount of light is necessary for proper plant growth and nutrient storage. Without the right light levels, your plant either cannot produce enough food stores to power a blooming cycle. Too much light may burn the orchid and too little light will not support its needs.
An interesting feature of growing orchids is that a plant can live for a long time even with light that is less than ideal, but you probably won't have any flowers. On the other side thought a large and healthy plant that has grown for a long time without enough light will often put on an impressive display once given proper lighting. This means that orchids are very durable and resilient.
As you seek to grow the perfect orchid, take your time and look around as you decide where in your garden you’d like to grow orchids. It will be well worth the patient time and effort you put in to see splendid, beautiful orchids in full bloom.
About The Author
Mike Yeager Publisher http://www.a1-flowers-4u.com/ mjy610@hotmail.com

Wake Up and Smell the Orchids - US Premiere of Dave Carley's Orchidelirium

2005-03-26T11:33:00.000Z

Orchids - Your # 1 Site For Orchids - Orchids Articles
"The Caprisian blue belies an odour akin to rotting meat." What power does a rare orchid possess and how did all those starlings get to America? Orchidelirium by Canadian playwright Dave Carley has its United States Premiere as the final production of Personal Space Theatrics' 2003-04 Season of Obsession. Take the journey across two centuries and discover the answer to these and other questions. Explore the story of the one flower that can cause a fever in the brains of humans; a desire to possess, to create and to control so strong that it has been declared a medical condition. That flower is the orchid and the lovesickness it creates is known as 'orchidelirium'; the name the Victorians gave to the flower madness that has been compared to gold fever. Wealthy orchid fanatics are sending explorers to uncharted territories in search of new varieties of this exotic and hypnotizing bloom. As knowledge of the family Orchidaceae grows to encompass the currently more than 60,000 species and over 100,000 hybrids, orchidelirium might be expected to go the way of Dutch tulip mania. Yet there exists even today, a vein of orchid madness strong enough to inspire larceny among collectors.

This piece is a hothouse hybrid of fact and fiction, research and hypothesis, scent and sex that focuses on four people in two different centuries whose lives collide because of this
shared obsession. By turns hysterical and heartbreaking, Orchidelirium cautions us of the calamities that can come with unrequited love.

Playwright Dave Carley's works have been produced across Canada, the United States, and the world over. Orchidelirium premiered last year at Toronto's Factory Theater and received three DORA nominations, including Best New Play. Personal Space is ‘delirious' to be bringing it to New York audiences.

The Company's Artistic Director Stephen Wargo will direct, following up last season's US Premiere of The Duchess AKA Wallis Simpson and his staged concert adaptation of Charles Dickens' A Christmas Carol – In Concert, a PST annual event. Margaret Norwood returns to PST following rave reviews as Wallis Simpson in The Duchess AKA Wallis Simpson. Also appearing are Michael Poignand and Fred Arsenault both veterans of A Christmas Carol – In Concert and rounding out the cast of four is Navida Stein making her PST debut.

You can see Orchidelirium from March 25 through April 4, 2004 at Theatre 54 @ Shetler, 244 W. 54th Street in New York City. To order tickets 24 hours a day, logon to www.theatermania.com or call (212) 352-3101.

About Personal Space Theatrics
Personal Space Theatrics was founded with the guiding principle that Theatre was created for audiences. We envision a new environment of play-going, one where actors, audiences and plays themselves meet together in the same literal space without the conventional dual constructs of a stage. For more information, logon to www.personalspacetheatrics.org.

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Better Blooming Orchids

2005-03-25T16:40:00.000Z

Have you got any stories/articles on Orchids, I could use on my website
http://betterbloomingorchids.com/
I'd love to hear your tips on how to grow Orchids. Here is your chance to get famous.
I will credit you as the author of your article.
Where to buy the Orchids? How to grow Orchids? What to look for etc.
Do you sell Orchids/books on Orchids,accessories?
I'd be happy to advertise your shop/site on my site.