How to Grow Aerial Orchids Successfully in Your Greenhouse

Orchids are gorgeous flowering plants, many of which are tropical and some of which are epiphytes, or aerial plants. The aerial orchids cling to rocks or other plants and derive their moisture from the air and rain, so they need a humid climate in which to grow. If you want to grow these aerial orchids in your greenhouse, they will need some special care. I am going to give you some suggestions that will help you to grow these beautiful plants successfully.

These orchids get the nutrients they need to thrive from the air and rain and from organic debris that accumulates on the supporting surface around them. In the greenhouse, some potting mix added to their environs will keep them healthy and growing. Many of them will reward you with blooms that last for days or weeks when they receive some potting mix and fertilizer.

These orchids need a good watering at least two times a week, but they need extra humidity every day if they are to flourish. You can provide this by giving them a light misting every day or by setting them on a humidity tray. You can make a humidity tray very easily by putting some small stones in the bottom of a tray. Add some water to the tray, but not enough to cover the stones because you do not want the orchid pot to sit in the water. Keep an eye on the tray and add more water whenever it gets too low.

Also make sure that the greenhouse doesn't get too hot for the plants. You will need some form of ventilation to keep the temperature in the right range for your orchids. A window or vent in the greenhouse will let fresh air in and keep things cool.

You also need to know that orchids need a period of darkness each day if they are to thrive and flower, just like they get in their natural habitat. So be sure to provide several hours of darkness every night by turning off all lights in and around the greenhouse.

These orchids may need a little extra care, but you will be well rewarded when they flower. You can delight in the magnificent, fragrant blooms every day in the greenhouse, and you can even take a few into your home to show off and impress your friends.

Growing all kinds of flowers and vegetables is easy when you build a backyard greenhouse. Click here to find out more about what's involved in a DIY greenhouse.