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Orchids in the Garden and on the
Patio
Properly selected and cared for,
orchids can be among the
showiest and most exotic of all
garden or patio plants. There
are many areas throughout the
southern and central United
States where temperatures for a
good portion of the year are
compatible with the needs of
many orchids. Some coastal
areas are nearly frost-free year
round. In these areas, with
some protection from excessive
sun, wind and rain, lovely
orchid plants can be
successfully cultivated on the
patio or as a part of the
landscape. In frost-free areas,
the plants can be left in place
all year. Where frost or
temperatures below 40 F
threaten, plants can be brought
into the home to be grown on
windowsills, under lights or on
an unheated patio where the
coldest temperatures are
avoided. The trick is in
selecting plants that are
already adapted to your
particular area. First, though,
consider some basic cultural
needs of the plants.
Light
No
flowering plant will do well in
deepest shade, and orchids are
no exception. Orchids generally
come from environments where
dappled light is the norm. The
hotter the sun, the more midday
shade is required. In humid or
coastal areas, more sun can be
given. The required amount of
light will also dictate your
selection of plants. If you can
offer only one light situation,
select only plants that can do
well under those conditions.
Temperature
In
most cases, you will be limited
to whatever Mother Nature
provides, eased only by the
amount of shade you supply.
Generally, there are many lovely
orchids that will do well in the
temperature range from 40 to 90
F. Your particular temperature
conditions will influence your
choice of plants.
Humidity
Most
areas with satisfactory
temperatures will have adequate
humidity. Anywhere from 40
percent and up will do. Only in
the deserts will it be
unsatisfactory. In such areas,
grouping orchids with other
plants can create a microclimate
that will suit them.
Watering
This
will depend greatly on your
plant selection, and whether the
plants are grown under cover.
In general: Most orchids require
at least some air circulation
around their roots yet are
intolerant of excessive moisture
at the roots.
Fertilizer
Fertilize regularly, at a low
dosage of approximately one-half
strength, with a fertilizer
appropriate to the potting mix
in which the plants are grown.
A
Selection of Plants
Cattleya Alliance Hybrids
Especially good are hybrids with
Laelia anceps in their
ancestry; half sun,
temperature-tolerant.
Cymbidiums
Only
in areas with cool summer
nights, not for the Gulf states,
nearly full sun.
Dendrobiums
Among the many choices, Indian
and Australian types best; half
sun, temperature-tolerant.
Encyclia Species and Hybrids
Half
sun, very temperature-tolerant.
Oncidiums
Mexican species, or
higher-elevation types; bright
shade to half sun.
Paphiopedilums
Lady's-slipper orchids are for
the shaded garden.
Phaius
The
nun orchid, with broad leaves
and tall spikes; shade to half
sun, keep moist.
Spathoglottis
Broad, palmlike leaves and
spikes of purple and yellow
flowers; shade to half sun.
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