How to grow beautiful orchids, tips from the experts
Once you get the hang of growing orchids, there’s a high risk of addiction, according to these dedicated green thumbs. Want to know more? This is the event for you.
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ONCE you get the hang of growing orchids, there’s a high risk of addiction, according to members of Caboolture Orchid Society.
Ian Blanch, Jim Endres and June Blaschek succumbed years ago, but say it’s a healthy obsession they call orchiditis, and it’s brought them plenty of joy.
“You start with one and end up with three or four plants and don’t want to part with them,” Ian explains.
“That’s the addictive part of it. Then your backyard isn’t big enough. It’s worse than cigarettes and alcohol,” Jim adds, laughing.
They say the challenging nature of growing some varieties, and the plants’ beauty and perfume make it irresistible.
There’s also the fun that comes with being part of an orchid society — Caboolture Orchid Society is celebrating 50 years during its Winter Show on July 26, 27 and 28.
Ian says joining an orchid society is a great way to learn tips and tricks for growing the plants. For beginners, the hardiest and easiest to look after are Cattleya orchids.
As you become more competent, you can move into hybrids and species varieties.
Ian says if you have plenty of space, you can opt for big plants, but if you don’t there are mini Cattleya varieties available.
“You can still get a reasonable flower on them,” he says.
The main points to remember are: don’t overwater them, ensure they are protected by shade, use an orchid blend potting mix, don’t starve them and watch out for pests such as ants and mealybugs.
If you’re keen to learn more about growing these stunning plants, head along to the society’s Winter Show. You can have plants repotted at the event, and can bring your plants along if you need advice.
You can also buy new ones and stock up on supplies, with a large selection of orchids on display and for sale. There will also be displays from other orchid societies, and floral art arrangements to inspire you.
“You learn as you go. I’ve got a shed of empty pots and you know where empty pots come from,” Ian says with a grin.
TIPS FOR GROWING ORCHIDS
Watering: They love water but don’t allow it to pool, and be sure it has run through the plant and out within 24 hours
Shade: They prefer dappled light and a shade house with 70 per cent shade cloth to shield them from the elements
Potting mix: Use an orchid blend of coarse bark, charcoal and you can even add Perlite
Fertiliser: Use an orchid bloomer mix all year round and a mix high in nitrogen in the growing season, summer
Pests: Ants and mealybugs can be treated using horticultural oil such as Carbaryl
Hot tip: Always buy plants that are named so you know what they are and what they need. Buy good quality, healthy plants
Caboolture Orchid Society Winter Show
When: July 26 and 27 from 9am-4pm, and July 28 from 9am-2pm.
Where: Morayfield Community Complex, 298 Morayfield Rd
Admission: Free entry
Visit: cabooltureorchidsociety.org
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