Orchids – Types

Having literally many hundreds of orchids types as well as hybrids available, trying to choose that right one could very well send you into mental overload! I will attempt with the following information to provide you with a basic introduction to the main types and hopefully make it easier for you to pinpoint your search for the perfect orchid.

Phalaenopsis


  • Phals are classified as monopodial plants. They are among the few orchids that belong to the mega-therm classification which means they will fare best in temperatures from 65 degrees up to about 90 degrees.
  • Frequently referred to as “Moth Orchids”, this variety is unquestionably the most commonly bred of all orchids.
  • Phalaenopsis orchids grow best in medium, indirect light and kept fairly wet, but not overly so.

Cymbidiums

  • Cymbidiums tend to do very well when grown indoors as long as they are given adequate light and kept fairly moist.
  • These orchids belong to the sympodial category of plants, preferring cooler climates and a good deal of light.

Cattleyas


  • This type of orchid prefers brighter light and doesn’t like to stay overly moist for very long. It’s best to allow them to thoroughly dry between waterings.
  • Cattleyas, similar to the Phalaenopsis, are another popular breed of orchids that are easy to find. The majority of these plants come from South America and Mexico.
  • A hearty variety, these orchids can tolerate temperature extremes much better than most other warm-growing varieties.

Catasetums


  • Catasetums fall into the group of deciduous symodial orchids that adhere to a three-cycle growing pattern: a growth phase, a flowering phase and a resting period.
  • During the growth phase when the plant is producing new leaves, it’s a good idea to increase Watering and fertilization. As the pseudobulb gradually matures, reduce watering until the leaves begin to turn yellow and drop off. At this point it’s best to refrain from watering until it starts showing new growth (unless the pseudobulbs begin to shrivel).
  • Catasetums will do best in a somewhat stronger light and prefer more water during the growth period, but does best if left to dry out after blooming.

Miltonias


  • This cool-growing sympodial orchid is especially sensitive to light and heat, and should never be exposed to temperatures exceeding 80 degrees or more for any length of time.
  • Miltonias do best in low to medium light while staying fairly wet.
  • Commonly known as “lady slippers” these sub-tropical plants are categorized as being sympodial orchids.

Paphiopedilums


    • Paphiopedilums will do best in low light conditions and like to stay fairly wet in order to prevent their root hairs rom drying up.
    • Paphs are somewhat sensitive to fertilizer salt build-up. To correct this problem try adding charcoal into your mix and/or rinsing with plain water instead of fertilizer once a month.

    Dendrobiums


    • Dendrobiums are different from other orchids as far as re-potting goes because they actually do better when pot-bound. Only re-pot Dendrobiums when the roots will no longer fit in the existing container.
    • Dendrobiums also differ from other sympodial orchids due to their ability to flower off of old growth. Don’t be too eager to remove bloom spikes that appear dead until you are absolutely sure that they are.
    • Dendrobiums do best in medium to bright light and prefer to dry out between waterings.

    Oncidiums

    orchids_types

    • Another of the most commonly bred and cultivated varieties, Oncidiums are classified as sympodials and prefer warmer climates.
    • Generally speaking, Oncidiums and related genera do best in low-medium to medium light and prefer to dry slightly between waterings.
    • These orchids are also frequently bred with other genera, which can vary the temperature and light needs of the particular plant.

    Phragmipediums


    • This variety of sympodial orchids are known as the “cloud forest” lady slippers.
    • They will do best in a medium light and are most comfortable between 50-80 degrees. They will thrive in cooler conditions and prefer to stay well-lit, wet and comfortable.

    Vandaceous


    • Vandaceous orchids do well in medium to bright light and like to stay moist but never wet.
    • Vandas will show the best results during their growth period from anall-purpose fertilizer (20-20-20).
    • These monopodial orchids are warm natured and rely on two crucial factors to prosper – light and humidity.


    For more information on orchids and how to grow them the right way, be sure to purchase a copy of my new ebook, “Orchid Care Secrets“.