Monday, January 14, 2008

Visser’s plant of the week, the Orchid


Visser’s Florist and Greenhouses is now introducing our plant of the week. Each week we will feature a different plant with interesting facts about them.

This week’s plant of the week is the orchid. Did you know that the orchid has been around ever since dinosaurs roamed the earth?!. The term ‘Orchid’ originated from the Greek word ‘Orchis’ meaning testicle, referring to the paired underground tubers of the European variety. The orchid has more than 25,000 known species and more are being discovered everyday. Orchids have adapted to live in all types of locations except Antarctica.
Although different species require slightly different care, here are some general care techniques:
· When watering your orchid, water the soil, not the leaves. If the leaves get wet, dry them off quickly using a tissue or cotton ball. Water your plant every 5-7 days.
· After you water do not allow standing water to come in contact with the base of the orchid plant.
· When all the flowers drop off, cut your flower spike (the long stem) halfway down the stem. Your orchid may re-bloom if proper care is continued.
· Orchids need bright light, but not direct sunlight.
· Feed with an orchid fertilizer during the growing season only. The rest of the year use only water.
· Buy your plants from a reliable source—like Visser’s Florist of course.

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