While at The Greater Des Moines Garden this morning, I came
across the Epiphytes display. I had no idea what Epiphytes were/are, but after
reading the display, “Ohhh. Well, I knew that.”
Typically recognized as orchids, epiphytes most distinctive
trait is their ability to grow on other plants. Their roots cling to the trunks
and branches of trees and collect water and nutrients from the air. Even though
they grow on other trunks and branches, they do not cause harm.
I have found orchids have grown in popularity over the last
several years. Once hard to find and incredibly high-priced, you can now find
them in most floral shops and garden centers year-round.
According to ISU publication
Plant
Wise, foliage for epiphytic is typically minimal and “rather boring” yet,
the flowers are not.
Besides being displayed at the Des Moines Botanical Garden, I
notice many people decorate their office with orchids. Purple, pink, white,
yellow displayed in cubes with bright low, low light, or even just stems after
the blossoms have fallen. The most common question I get is, “how much water do
I give it?” and “how long will the blossoms last?” Because epiphytes grow on other objects, like bark or stone,
they do not need to be replanted when purchased.
However, to enjoy them:
- Because the blooms can last for
several weeks, display in an area with bright but indirect light, i.e.,
east- and north-facing windows. If in a south window, you might want to
have a sheer curtain to ensure the plant isn’t scorched.
- Orchids do not like “wet feet”
or a “soggy bottom”, so give approximately ½ cup water every 7 to 10 days;
too much water encourages rot; (some people will put 2-3 ice cubes on top
of the soil);
- Medium light, i.e., no direct
light, otherwise, you’ll burn the plant;
- Pinch the bloom off once it is
“spent” or wilted.
If, after all the blooms are spent, you can
repot. According to the Jefferson County Master Gardeners of Iowa:
- Use a smaller pot. Unlike most
plants and like ficuses,
orchids like their roots cramped together;
- Use specialized orchid pots
using an orchid soil mixture; regular potting soil will likely not have
the soil balance needed for the orchid flourish;
- Be sure to use a pot with
drainage slits for water to drain out;
- During the growing season,
provide orchid fertilizer weekly;
- During the summer months, water
a little more than usual (but, again, not to the point of soggy);
- During winter months, reduce
watering and no need to fertilize. (JM note: while some recommend misting
an orchid, I wouldn’t. There is a potential for insect infestation and
overwatering);
- If you see yellowing leaves,
wrinkled leaves or no blooms, tweak the conditions…for example, move the
plant, water more, water less…until you find the right spot for your
orchid.
Without further delay, I snapped some photos and am sharing
with you. I hope you enjoy as much as I do, especially, if, like me, it is cold
and cloudy outside; every bit of color helps any spirit.
SOURCES:
