What is the best way to grow orchids? The most complete care tutorial for beginners is here

Since ancient times, orchids have been given many positive meanings by scholars and writers, and have always been called the “gentleman among flowers”. As an ornamental plant, the orchid is very beautiful, but growing it well is not so easy. So exactly what is the best way to grow orchids? The most complete beginner tutorial is right here!

1. Planting orchids

1. Choosing a pot

As a potted plant, the orchid has a well-developed root system and needs enough oxygen and drainage conditions to grow. So when cultivating orchids, you do not need to be too particular about choosing a pot, as long as the bottom of the pot has drainage holes and good breathability. When choosing soil, you need to pay attention to buying a special orchid potting mix; granular soil that is breathable and drains quickly is best. If you do not know how to choose, you can also make your own nutrient-rich soil; small gravel, river sand, pine bark, pine needles, moss and so on are all good materials.

2. Pruning and drying

Before transplanting an orchid into a pot, it needs to be properly pruned; yellowed leaves and dead roots should be cut away as much as possible, and any soil remaining on the roots should be washed clean. Because fresh orchid roots break very easily, you can let them dry slightly in a cool place before potting, until the roots turn white and soft. Doing this both protects the orchid's root system and increases the rate of new shoots after potting.

3. Potting

When potting the orchid, the drainage hole at the bottom of the pot must not be too large; you can first place a layer of mesh at the bottom of the pot, then slowly add soil. Put the orchid into the pot first, then slowly fill in the soil while gently patting the side of the pot so that the soil and the orchid roots fully contact and fit together. After potting, the orchid must not be exposed directly to the sun; it should be placed in a ventilated, shady spot, taking care to protect it from freezing and sunburn.

2. Watering orchids

Orchids do not need much water; as long as breathability is good, watering does not need to be too frequent. But there are also particular requirements for the water given to orchids; it is best not to water with dirty water or water that is too rich in nutrients, otherwise the shoots and roots can easily rot. Adjust the watering time according to the season at any time; in summer there is no need to water or mist during the day, just water once every evening; in winter you must not water at night, water only when the soil in the pot has dried out, and you need to water thoroughly in one go, and finally just ensure good ventilation.