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Orchids 101
Are you searching for the perfect flower and getting ready for your next planned event or wedding? Sometimes there is no right or wrong flower but a matter preference as to what fits your needs or what fits your personality. The 101 series is a series of articles helping to educate everyone with the contrasts of various flowers. You may want to read the others in this series as well as many other helpful articles.
There are six things to keep in mind with Orchids:
- There are thousands of species of orchids in many different shapes and sizes.
- The most common types available are Cymbidiums, Dendrobiums, Oncidiums, and Phalaenopsis orchids are the best varieties to grow as house plants.
- Choose cut orchids by bloom size and color. Look for large blossoms in scale with stem size. Most of the blossoms should be open, as most varieties will not fully develop when cut. Orchids bruise easily, so check the blossoms before purchasing.
- Aged orchids usually have a yellow or faded tip where there are unopened blossoms. Some of the bottom blossoms may also be discolored or appeared wrinkled and transparent.
- In nature, orchids grow by attaching their roots above the ground. When growing them as houseplants, make sure that the roots are exposed to receive humidity and ventilation.
- Orchids are very a very versatile flower to use in arrangements because they can be paired with formal types of flowers for elaborate bouquets but work just as well with casual companions. White Dendrobidium orchids look enhanced when paired here Queen Anne’s lace.
Here are some facts about orchids:
Name: Orchid
Varieties: There are over 30,000 varieties of orchid. The most common available fresh cut varieties are Cymbidium, Dendrobium, Oncidium, and Phalaenopsis orchids.
Colors: Every shade and color except for true blue. Orchids can be solid colors, but are usually multi-colored, with spots or stripes accenting the throat of the blossom.
Scent: Some varieties are fragrant, such as the Cymbidium.
Freshness: Most of the flowers are open, or beginning to open. If cut too early while mostly budded, they probably will not open.
Vase Life: Approximately 7 days, but some varieties will last two weeks.
Availability: All year.
Cost: Moderately expensive to expensive, depending on the variety. Cymbidium and Phalaenopsis orchids are the most expensive cut varieties.
Meaning: Beautiful lady, Belle
Arranging Tip: Orchids are very versatile in flower arranging, lending an exotic touch to any combination. Their amazing color combinations and lasting ability make them a good choice for flower arrangements. Long-stemmed orchids with multiple blossoms can be cut into two or three parts for use in arrangements.
Growing Tip: Most varieties like direct sun and warm, humid conditions, but some prefer more indirect light and cooler temperatures. One such is the Phalaenopsis orchid, which is a good variety to grow indoors under normal conditions. Plant in bark, stones, or moss, and place in high indirect or filtered light; the edges of the leaves will burn or brown if the orchid is receiving too much light. Water your orchid once a week by drenching the roots and draining them completely. Orchids prefer humid conditions. Misting frequently and resting the pot on a few pebbles will produce this type of environment. Occasionally place a few ice cubes on top of the bark to let moisture slowly soak in and cool the roots.
Other: Frequently misting of cut orchids will lengthen their vase life.
Here are some varieties we have available:
– Assorted
– Burgundy
– Orange
– Pink
– White
– Blush
– Pink
– Burgundy
– Green
– Purple
– Hot Pink
– Blue
– Green
– Jade
– Yellow
– Calypso
– Gold
– Orange
– Red
– White
– Purple
– Pink
– Blue
– Purple
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