Useful advice about Orchids, including wild orchid, phalaenopsis orchid, moth orchid, orchid nursery, vanilla orchid and much more.

 

There are many types of orchid.  In fact, it is this variety that makes them the highly desirable plants that they are.  A combination of colors, shapes and sizes can be had by growing different kinds of orchids in a particular area.

Let's take a look at the three main types of orchid plants that you can grow.

1. Epiphytes.  Epiphytes are orchids that prefer to be perched on elevated positions.  They derive most of the nutrients they need from the air, and being placed in high areas is optimal for their growth and good health.  In the wilds, Epiphytes grow by clinging to trees and slabs.  Their roots are often exposed, protected by an outer layer called Velamen.

2. Lithophytes.  The best way to describe Lithophytes would be to label them as organic feeders.  These orchids are often observed in bases of trees and in fissures of rocks where they feed on decomposing mildews and rich soil.

3. Terrestrials.  Terrestrials are the conventional varieties of orchids.  They plant themselves on the soil to garner the nutrients they need.  As such, these orchids are often observed on the ground.

Knowing these types of orchid is essential for any gardener or horticulturist who is planning to build an orchid garden of her own.  Each type has its own requirements.  Epiphytes, for example, have to be suspended in an elevated platform, which can be a problem depending on the space limitations of the area where they are to grow.  Additionally, Epiphytes demand natural lighting, and lots of it too.  Such is vital for its photosynthetic processes, hence, it needs a good amount of sunlight everyday to survive.

Lithophytes, on the other hand, can either be suspended in midair via specially made wall mounts composed of humus and mosses, or they can be planted on potted soil.  They can survive with artificial lighting, but the quality of the nutrients in the surface where they will be planted should always be preserved.

Terrestrials, though they may initially seem to be the most novice-friendly among the types of orchid plants, require regular maintenance of the soil.  This involves fertilization of the soil every quarter.  Such demands a high level of commitment from the owner.

Nonetheless, regardless of the demands of these varieties of orchid plants, one thing is for certain: they will give you the most beautiful blooms once their season arrives, and all your hard work will be rewarded in kind.