Orchid Care in the Home
Orchid growing in the home need not be difficult Though many people consider orchids difficult to grow, certain species are suitable for the beginner or hobbyist. Orchids of the genera Cattleya, Phalaenopsis, and Dendrobium make good choices for those new to orchids.

A sill on an east-facing window is the ideal spot for many types of orchids as most benefit from medium-to-high light levels and warm temperatures. The perfect window location also includes a heat source just below it. Orchids respond best to higher levels of humidity; place pots in gravel-filled trays to maintain moisture around the plants. Good air circulation is also important for successful orchid growing.

Where natural light is insufficient, orchids can be grown using a combination of fluorescent and tungsten tubes.Care should be taken that moisture and heat requirements be maintained. More elaborate methods of growing orchids include window greenhouses and dedicated freestanding orchidariums.

CATTLEYA ORCHIDS - These are large plants, growing from 20 - 80 inches depending upon the variety. Known for grand, showy scented flowers, Cattleyas are very sensitive to heat. While they need plenty of light, they should be protected from direct sunlight. Growing medium should be allowed to dry out almost completely between waterings. Temperature requirements should not exceed 82° F (28° C) during the daytime. Night temperatures should not drop below 55° F (15° C). Best flowering is achieved when there is a marked difference between day and night temperatures. Flowers last about two weeks on the plant. Do not fertilize Cattleyas for one or two months after flowering.

PHALAENOPSIS ORCHIDS - Probably the best orchid as a "house plant," these orchids feature multiple blooms at the ends of graceful arching spikes. The adult plants are very tolerant. Still, they should not be exposed to full sun. Water regularly with no rest period or drying out. Temperatures of between 77 - 86° F (25 - 30° C) are ideal, but plants will adapt to slightly lower temperatures in the home provided sufficient humidity is maintained. After the flowering period has ended, cut the spike just above the second or third node to encourage re-flowering.

DENDROBIUM ORCHIDS - This is one of the most diversified of the orchid groups with well over 1400 identified species. In addition to the wide variance in appearance, these orchids vary greatly in their cultural needs. The type of leaves is a good indicator of the sort of care a particular species requires. In general, Dendrobium orchids appreciate strong light. Temperature requirements vary according to the species. Ideal humidity is in the range of 60 - 70% during growth periods.

Dendrobium Orchid Plants
The exotic Dendrobium orchid was grown in Hawaii under natural conditions. Your orchid plant will thrive in normal household conditions. No green house is necessary.

Light: Place plant near window with morning or late afternoon sun. Can be placed outside in summer in partial shade.

Moisture: Volcanic cinders are used as medium to retain moisture as well as providing air for the roots. Water plant twice a week as needed (do not overwater). Fertilze once a month misting with a general water-soluable fertilizer (14-14-14 or 30-10-10). Follow instructions on the label.

Replanting: When plant outgrows its pot, repot into larger pot. You can use fir bark, coco-chips, and rock as potting material.

Temperature: 55 to 85 degrees F. Do not expose to extreme cold.

Fast Facts About Dendrobium Orchid Flowers
The dendrobium orchid, a most elegant tribute to the image of Hawaii as paradise, has for centuries symbolized love, tenderness, joy and friendship. But, to the orchid lover, the dendrobium symbolizes much more. Not just ease of use and length of vase life, but versatility as well. The cascading sprays and delicate beauty of these - the quintessential flower of the tropics - enhance occasions from the everyday to the extravagant. Cut Flowers To retain the dendrobium¹s radiance for up to two weeks, follow these healthful hints.

• Unpack the flowers immediately.
• Trim up to 1/2 inch off the stems.
• Place the flowers in a clean vase with clean water or a commercial floral preservative. If your dendrobiums are wilted upon unpacking, simply submerge whole sprays for 10 to 15 minutes in cool tap water.
• Recut stems once or twice per week.
• Use clean water - with or without a floral preservative.
• Keep flowers away from heat sources.
• Avoid temperatures below 45 degrees F.