Mastering ORCHIDS

This beautiful and mysterious species is known for its symmetric and upward-facing flowers, and specific care requirements. Find out how to keep yours happy, healthy and full of blooms.

STORY COURTESY OF NATIONAL GARDEN BUREAU Orchidaceae, the orchid family, is a diverse group of flowering plants. Found on every continent except Antarctica, orchids are also one of the largest groups of flowering plants. With more than 28,000 species, there are more types of orchids on the planet than mammal and bird species. Orchids are popular—and giftable—houseplants, but they are known to be a bit finicky. Follow this expert advice for beautiful indoor blooms. Use Rooting Medium In nature, many orchid types are epiphytes, which means they attach to tree branches and take in nutrients from plant and animal litter and tropical rains. Most orchids grown inside are planted in a rooting medium—such as peat moss, perlite, stones or coconut fiber—that lends itself to the unique epiphytic roots. Pay Attention to the Roots An orchid’s…

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Birds & Blooms (Digital) - 1 Issue, December/January 2024

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