Orchid Care: Orchid Keeping For The New Blood

Orchids are beautiful flowers that make great gifts. The problem is that many people are intimated by these flowers when, with adequate time and care, there is really no need to be. Here you will learn the top three concerns new orchid growers have and what to do about them.

Those new to orchids will be shocked to find out how much attention the plant will need. Orchids are delicate plants but they can go through quite a bit before any real long lasting damage is done. One of the scariest moments for new growers is finding fallen flowers and petals around the plant. Dead flowers are usually a sign of disease or death when it comes to plants, but in the case of orchids those shriveled flowers can just mean the end of a blooming cycle.

When you first buy your orchid or receive one as a gift, you will want to do some research into the type to see just how long the blooming cycle lasts. This way you will know that there is no need to panic on that morning when you wake up to find all your flowers have fallen.

If you have a say in which orchid you are going to get, the best advice for new hobbyist is to purchase a phalaenopsis whose blooming cycle lasts up to four months. A cattleya, for example, only enjoys blooms for about three weeks.

So, you might have weathered the worry and stress of dying flowers, but what about a stem that is turning brown?

Surely, this sign does not bode well for your plant - not necessarily so. The article assures us that first, you will want to access the stem and the spike. It may be necessary to trim and prune a bit. In fact, trimming up your orchid is one of the best ways to maintain its health while providing you with a relaxing past time.

But what about when you plan to go on vacation and the orchid may actually be in danger of under watering?

New orchid keepers believe that they need to be constantly available to water and nurture the plant at all times, proper orchid care states otherwise. Luckily, many nurseries now offer boarding services for your orchids when you go on business trips or vacations. So no more trusting Uncle Larry to come over and spritz your delicate orchid. Instead you can trust your plant to professionals.

Orchid keeping is involved but the benefits and the beauty is well worth it as long as you are dedicated to taking care of the flower.


------

And to learn even more orchid care tips, download my totally FREE 5-Day Orchid Insider training course by going here: "Orchid Care Secrets". Mary Ann Berdak is the publisher of www.OrchidCareZone.com - a top online destination for orchid care tips and advice.