Easy Orchid Growing Tips!

• Get Ready for Orchid Growing Tips

  The time is now to get ready for orchid growing tips. Winter is the best time to enjoy these special plants that bring us so much joy ... - 11 months ago

• Christmas Star Orchid for the Holiday Season!

  Orchid growing tips for the Christmas Star Orchid .... Star of Bethlehem Orchid, also known as the Christmas Star Orchid is something you will want to keep your eyes out for to add to your collection this holiday season. With its star shaped flowers it is exotic indeed, with its heady citrus spicy scent. It is of the Angraecum genus and include nearly 200 species native to the African Tropics and Madagascar. Common characteristics of the Angraecum include waxy, white flowers, long nectaries, pollination by a specific moth, and generally are night fragrant. Ivory, creamy white, milky white and slight green tinges are the colors of the flowers. The long nectary is one of the more distinguishing characteristics of these orchids. Flowers of the Angraecum orchids are extremely diverse in size, fragrance, growth habits. Sizes range from miniatures to the 5 inch "stars" of the A. sesquipedale. This species is one of the most popular. Flowers are showy and this orchid generally blooms in winter around Christmas time. It is nick-named "The Star of Bethlehem". Other species can flower at various times of the year. Care of Angraecums: Temperatures: The Angraecums tolerate a broad range of temperatures and adapt well to cool environments, intermediate and warm environments. Angraecums like a higher humidity of 60 - 80% and temperatures between 57 - 85 F. There are s few species require chilling weather for at least three months (A. sororium, A. protensum). Light: Many varieties enjoy high light which is why they can be grown with Vandas and Cattleyas. Generally however, they grow well in phalaenopsis-like light with more shade than sun. Watering: Give considerable amounts of water. Angraecums like "feet like phals"... they definitely like to stay moist. These orchids are sensitive to salt and fertilizer buildup, so flush well. Fertilizer: Many growers recommend a 20-10-10 or 30-10-10 fertilizer solution year round. Generally, fertilize once every 3-4 weeks in the winter and every 2 weeks in spring and summer. Flush plants well after fertilizing to reduce salt buildup.These awesome exotic "stars" certainly are a terrific addition to any holiday season .... here is wishing everyone happy holidays and a wonderful New Year! - 12 months ago

• This Is NOT the Way to Care for Orchids!

  This was reported from the BBC News Channel: Precious orchids stolen from park Rare orchids have been stolen from the Peak District National Park countryside in Derbyshire. The dark red Helleborine orchids were dug up from the Stoney Middleton area and experts say the theft could affect the biodiversity of the Peak District. The orchids, which are 15-30cm (6-12in) tall, have a hairy stalk with up to 20 flowers which grow in rows on the stem. Police have condemned the theft of the orchids, which are only found in five areas of the UK. 'Under threat' Pete Charleston, wildlife crime co-ordinator for Derbyshire Police, said: "Some people might be surprised to know that it is a crime to take plants from the countryside but these orchids are as much a part of our heritage as a painting in an art gallery and deserve protection too." The orchids grow in open countryside, accessible to the public in the Peak District National Park. One plant, which had about 10-15 orchids on it, was dug up by the thieves. Natural environment team manager for the Peak District National Park Authority, Rhodri Thomas, said the stolen orchids were likely to die due to the difficulties of successfully transplanting rare plants. "The actions of the thieves have damaged a nationally important wildlife site and put a rare plant under threat. "Orchids are popular flowers but it is important that they are left to flourish in their natural environment - in this case the limestone area of the White Peak." Police have asked anyone with information on the thefts to contact them. Under the Wildlife and Countryside Act 1981, it is an offense to pick rare plants. CLICK HERE for Newscast - 16 months ago