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Popular orchid myths
by: Bob Roy
#1 Orchids are Carnivorous
They are not, in fact, they pollinate by luring insects to them but they do not eat the insects. This helps the orchid gardening
Orchid Myths#2 Orchids come from the Tropics
Some orchid flowers do come from the tropical climates but they grow in any climate and in any country, even Alaska.
#3 Orchids are Expensive.
Not anymore. Now with the increased number of orchid gardening and growers, the modern reproductive methods orchids now are reasonably priced.
#4 Orchids are Hard to Grow.
This orchid myths is now furthest from the truth. They are not anymore difficult than any other plant. They need the basics, water, light, air and fertilizer. And you can have a beautful orchid flowers that last for years.
#1 Are all orchids the same?
On the contrary to what most florists want you to believe, they come in over 28,000 varieties, they are the largest plant family. There are estimates of 110,000 hybrids today. They grow from thimble size (Mystacidium) to over 20 feet tall (Renanthera storei)
#2 What soil do they grow in?
Most orchids require no soil. In nature orchids are divided into 4 classes;
| Epiphytes | air plants (majority of orchids) | grow on trees |
| Lithophytes | air plants | grow on rock surfaces |
| Saprophytes | air plants | grown on decaying vegetation |
| Terrestrials | ground plants | grow in soil |
#3 Do orchids only last a short time?
On the contrary most species can last for years if taken care of. There are some plants which were propagated in the 18th century and continue to live today.
#4 How often do they bloom?
It varies according to the variety and hybrid but they can bloom from once to 2 - 4 times a year. The blossoms can last for weeks to months which is a real plus.
#5 How old is my plant?
Orchids can take years to come to maturity and bloom. Typically, the plants are anywhere from 5 to 8 years old.
#6 Is conservation of orchids important?
According to the American Orchid Society this is a priority. Threats to orchids come primarily from loss of habitat and collecting. The AOS encourages the purchase of only artificially propagated orchids.
#7 Should orchids be protected from a draft?
This could be another orchid myths,but the answer is no, orchids prefer moving air but should not be over a heating or air conditioning vent.
The above article was written by "Bob Roy". Visit his informative website about orchids at: www.orchids-plus.more.com
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