Orchid lovers beware! This human - plant relationship is doomed from the beginning. This is often time the subtle realization that accompanies the excitement of receiving a beautiful orchid arrangement on a special occasion. All of you out there that are familiar with the stunning brilliance of an orchid presentation, know that time will soon cut short your new found relationship with your plant.
"Was it something I said or did?" You find yourself asking as the reason for the early departure of your once budding relationship. The answer from the orchid is all too familiar, " It isn't you...it's me!"
Only in this case, the orchid is telling you the truth! The orchid is a very stubborn plant that requires a my-way-or-the-highway type environment to flourish in.
Here is what you need to know to keep your new companion happy and in your life:
1. Orchids thrive in a humid environment. Fill a simple plastic tray with water and rocks and place the orchid on the tray. The rocks will keep the container from submerging into the water. The water from the tray will naturally evaporate thus creating a bit of humidity near the orchid.
2. Orchids are picky drinkers. Only filtered water for these socialites. Although tap water is drinkable water to our standards, it falls short of satisfying the needs of the orchid. Minute traces or chlorine can be found in tap water that can cause unfavorable side effects for an orchid.
3. Water your orchid every other week. A little goes a long way with an orchid. You should only use a quarter of a cup. Anymore and you might risk smothering your relationship. Another way to make sure you don't over water is to use ice cubes. Generally, 3 to 4 ice cubes in the same time frame will suffice. However, don't mistake this for putting your relationship on ice.
Naturally, every bloom will eventually wilt, thus ending this needy one sided rocky relationship. However, the steps above will help give your new companion the tools needed to turn a short fling into a happily ever after.
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