In recent years, orchids have become very trendy. How best to take care of them to always have them vigorous? Find out below.
Orchids are tropical plants that we have now learned to appreciate in our homes as furnishing elements .
Orchids: fascinating characteristics
Orchids, admired for their beauty and allure, originate from tropical regions. Traditionally, their growth was confined to greenhouses or environments that were both moist and warm.
Over time, the cultivation of popular orchid varieties has successfully expanded to European climates, which are significantly cooler than their native tropical habitats. This expansion is thanks to the development of new hybrid orchids that are notably hardier and simpler to propagate.
The etymology of the word “orchid” is rooted in Latin and translates to “testicles,” a reference to the bulbous tubers found at the base of some terrestrial species native to the Italian mountains and hills.
Orchid leaves are also quite striking, in addition to their vibrant flowers. They are solid, with shapes ranging from oval to ribbon-like, and have a succulent texture. The distinctive floral structure includes three sepals on the upper part and three petals on the lower part, with the central petal known as the labellum.
Orchid roots are aerial and succulent, designed to soak up moisture from the air and the surfaces they attach to.
It’s common to mistakenly think an orchid has perished after its initial bloom and consequently neglect its care. However, maintaining a thriving orchid at home requires surprisingly minimal effort. Moreover, there’s a helpful tip we’re about to share that can ensure your orchids remain robust and flourishing. Let’s explore what this tip is.
Vigorous orchids? Just one spoonful is enough
Should your orchids be delayed in blooming, they might benefit from a shift in their environment, as these plants often initiate flowering with the onset of a new season. Additionally, there’s a common kitchen staple that can aid in boosting orchid growth, particularly by encouraging root development and activity.
This readily available ingredient is none other than garlic. Surprisingly, garlic powder can be beneficial for orchids. Garlic acts as a natural antibiotic, safeguarding the plants against fungal infections and pest invasions, and it can assist in the removal of any dead roots and foliage.
To create a garlic-based liquid feed for your orchids, start by adding a spoonful of garlic powder to a glass. Then, pour boiling water over the powder and stir thoroughly. Allow the mixture to cool down before using it.
For orchids of medium size, administer five tablespoons of water mixed with minced garlic. This procedure should be carried out bi-weekly. It’s important to avoid overfeeding the orchids with liquid nutrients, as doing so may prevent attaining the optimal outcome.
