GARDEN GUIDANCE
Grow Orchids In Your Home
by Mary Falkenberg, Advanced Master Gardener

It is not surprising that the orchid, with its many varieties, continues to fascinate plant lovers all over the Thumb. It is easy to grow orchids in your home if you use orchid plant food. The truth is anyone can grow orchids, and they are on sale this time of year at Home Depot and Lowe's.

Do not let anyone intimidate you and say you could never grow these. One winter I had lots of orchids in my kitchen during the winter (not this year, because we just returned from Kissimmee, Florida).

Many orchids are easygoing houseplants. There are over 20,000 different orchid species. That is far more than any other plant species. Orchids can grow on or in just about anything. Your orchid will not only thrive, it will reward you over and over again with its glorious, long-lasting blooms.

Orchids have been around for quite some time. Books about orchids have made bestseller lists. Go to Google on the internet and type in "orchids" and you will have plenty to read.

All orchids belong to the orchid family, orchidaceous. There are monopodial and sympodial orchids (single-stem or multiple-stem growth types).

Cattleya orchids require 50-60 percent humidity, need to be fertilized, and should be repotted every two to three years in the spring before the potting mix breaks down.

Papiopedilum orchids require fairly bright light and normal home temperatures. These orchids used to bloom between 8-10 weeks or longer for me.

Orchids, like most other plants, need fertilizer. Follow directions on the package. Always use rainwater or melted snow to mix with the stuff you buy from the store. Orchids should be repotted every two years. Do it in the spring. Water once every 4-7 days depending on the dryness of your home. When your orchid has finished blooming, use a sharp, sterile knife blade and cut off as close to the base of the spike as possible. Provide humidity. Provide light.

Anyone wanting further information on this topic, other gardening interests or the events listed below is encouraged to call the Master Gardener office at 989-269-9949.

Upcoming Master Gardener Events:

• May 20 - Perennial Plant Sale, Huron Community fairgrounds, Bad Axe, 10 a.m.
• July 8 - Huron County Garden Walk (tentative date).
• August 6-12 - Master Gardeners Fair Booth, Huron Community fairground's Merchants' Building.