The ideal orchid for newcomers is not represented among the more than 30,000 species and countless varieties. Due to their unconventional growth as epiphytes, the exotic flowers make special demands on care. After all, a few species have emerged that pave the way for you to become orchid lovers.
The beautiful Phalaenopsis is quite undemanding
Getting started with Phalaenopsis is not difficult at all
In order to open up the fascinating world of orchids to a wide audience, breeders have equipped the Phalaenopsis orchid with frugal unpretentiousness. Raised in gigantic quantities, the exotic flowers are flooding the market today at a bargain price. The combination of uncomplicated care and low purchase price catapults the butterfly orchid to the best-selling houseplant for beginners. However, there are a few important conditions that must be observed:
- A bright location without direct sun at noon
- Warm room temperatures all year round
- Water sparingly during the growth and flowering period or immerse in lime-free water every 14 days
- Fertilize liquid every 4 weeks from April to October
Dendrobium - orchids with modest claims
The diverse genus of Dendrobium orchids is moving on par with Phalaenopsis. The bar is particularly high when crossing both types at beginner level. Dendrobium phalaenopsis inspires with small trunks on which terminal flowers unfold. Dendrobium nobile, whose stems are consistently covered with leaves and flowers, provides more variety on the windowsill. The grape orchid scores as a beginner plant with these modest claims:
- Tolerates regular tap water when lukewarm
- Can be supplied with normal liquid fertilizer
- Dendrobium only needs to be repotted every 3 to 4 years
The most important difference to Phalaenopsis is a pronounced rest period after flowering. In order for a Dendrobium to produce its flower dress again, it stays in a cool location at 15-18 degrees Celsius during the day and 10-12 degrees at night. There it is only poured very sparingly and sprayed more frequently. The grape orchid only receives fertilizer again when a fresh shoot appears.
tips
If you buy your first orchid in the middle of winter, there is a risk of cold shock on the way home. Even a few minutes at temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius can cause considerable problems for the tropical plant. Ideally, you wrap the flower divas in foil, tissue paper or several layers of newspaper for the way home.