Gardening Tips : Tips for Growing Orchids

[missanna208]

FERTILIZER-orchids need to be fed 1/4 strength fertilizer. Orchids in bark need nitrogen because the microorganisms that break the mix down use up the nitrogen. That is why lots of orchid fertilizers have a high N content. Howeverm you want to use one that does NOT have UREA because the plant can't use it because of the type of mix it is in. Also, studies have shown that phos. content does NOT promote blooming, so what you really want to get is a nice balanced fertilizer that is urea free.

[MyGeranium]

you should NEVER plant orchids in compost or peat. Use sphagnum moss, fir bark, spong rock ect. This video is inaccurate. They rot if not given air.

Also, you should actually use nitrogen fertilizers to make more leaf growth. This will make the plant healthier.

[missann208]

No, they grow on every continent except Antarctica. Not all grow in "jungle conditions." Cyprediums grow in ALASKA in parts where it gets to 40 BELOW. Bathrooms usually have poor light and the drastic changes in humidity can cause buds to fall. She is WRONG about fertilizer.  Read a book. They should be in special orchid potting mix. NEVER DIRT. Also-different orchids require different watering techniques. Cattleyas and many others need drying out between waterings and need a winter rest.