For Cultivating the Brightest Orchids, Nature Doesn't Always Know Best

Orchid growing no longer lies exclusively within the domain of the privileged few, now that the means and requirements for cultivation are better understood. This happened as a result of studying these plants both in their native habitats and in greenhouses, gardens and even the laboratory.

One important discovery about orchids was that many of the most ornamental species did not require either the high heat or the elaborate growing equipment that people once thought necessary. The new understanding showed that growing orchids was something anyone could have a go at.

In the 19th century, when the passion for orchids really took off, many would-be growers were initially discouraged by one major problem. World travelers sent home one exotic species after another, but often without any notes at all as to their local growing conditions. Orchids vary hugely in their needs, such as for light, heat and water, and not knowing a particular plant's unique requirements could and often did lead to disaster. "The want of some such information has been a source of extreme vexation to many lovers of these plants," complained an orchid enthusiast and writer in 1885.

These days we are much better informed about orchids and their care. We can stand on the shoulders of other orchid lovers who meticulously jotted down all they learned about each type and species of the plants that they encountered.

So yes, it's vital to know what an orchid's native habitat and climate are like. Take that with a grain of salt, however. Generally, you shouldn't try to completely re-create the conditions of a plant's natural habitat. Within reason, it is possible to cultivate better looking orchids than nature produces by intelligently tampering with its environment. This is an art as well as science.

Again quoting that Victorian orchid authority: "We admit that we should by all means take nature as our guide for the production of good plants but it should be nature in her best garb only and then looking as we do upon cultivation as a help to nature the result can only be an improvement if success in the object aimed at has been attained."

So, what is a beginning orchid grower to do? How do you strike a balance between imitating nature and improving on it with the tools of modern horticulture? The only sure answer: Educate yourself. You can successfully grow orchids if you know what you're doing up-front.

Among the best and most complete guides to modern orchid growing is Orchid Care Expert by Nigel Howard, which may be downloaded online. There are many books on the subject of orchids, but Mr. Howard's guide is a complete course, and good for beginners and more experienced growers alike. Also, visit the Orchid Secrets web site, which has a growing library of postings on many aspects of orchids.