The best way to identify what type of orchid you have is by conducting a thorough examination of its leaves, roots, and flowers, as these differ depending upon the orchid species. The size, shape, and color of the flowers can assist in proper identification, but it can be difficult to determine an orchid species based these alone.
Look at the Flowers. Size and Color. Orchids vary in flower size, ranging from an inch to several inches. One of the most important defining signs for orchids is the flower shapes. Each spike can bear different numbers of flowers in different orchid varieties. Some varieties grow one flower per spike while others bear more than 20.
What type of orchids to give as gifts?
Giving orchids is a sure way to express thoughtfulness, and what better way to use them than as a gift to wish someone a fast recovery? Several orchid types can be used for this purpose, but the most common options are white Phalaenopsis orchid or a green Cymbidium orchid.
Where can I find information about orchids?
Watch recorded orchid webinars now or register for upcoming webinars. For over 80 years, the American Orchid Society has been dedicated to providing fellow orchid growers with the most comprehensive orchid information on the planet, and continues to be a leading supporter of orchid research and conservation worldwide.
Learning how the orchids have evolved to attract their pollinators is one of the most fascinating parts of the study of orchids. Orchid lovers and growers are from all walks of life, with different occupations, but all share a passion for orchids.
Net pots, which have wire mesh and allow for a breathable environment. These can be hung in advantageous locations for better sunlight. Clear plastic pots, which get better sunlight to the roots. These allow the grower to inspect the root systems without disturbing the orchid. Wooden pots, which are constructed of rot-resistant wood.
How long do Phalaenopsis orchids bloom?
From start to finish, it takes about 3 months for the orchid to develop blooms. From late winter to early spring, many Phalaenopsis orchids will experience their blooming season. Provided that the orchid has optimal growing conditions, Phalaenopsis orchid blooms can last up to 16 weeks on the flower spike.
While reading we ran into the question “How long do orchids live?”.
One answer was during the blooming season, you should see at least one flower spike grow over a 2 to 3 month period. The flowers should last anywhere from 12 to 16 weeks. As you can see, orchids tend to grow slowly over the course of the year. If well-cared for, orchids can live for decades.
We learned roots typically grow fastest during the warmer months of spring and summer. In a year, an orchid may develop multiple new root buds. Alternatively, new roots may branch off from existing roots. Phalaenopsis orchids usually bloom once a year and will produce at least one flower spike each blooming season.
Orchids bloom once a year, but if they are happy, they may bloom more often. If you want an orchid that blooms during a particular season, the best bet is to purchase a plant that is in bloom at that time . When an orchid flowers, it stays in bloom for six to eight weeks.
Why join the American Orchid Society?
For over 80 years, the American Orchid Society has been dedicated to providing fellow orchid growers with the most comprehensive orchid information on the planet, and continues to be a leading supporter of orchid research and conservation worldwide.