Ground Orchid
How to Grow Ground Orchid Flowers
Unlike other varieties of orchids, the ground orchids grow in the soil instead of the air. There are actually several different species of orchids that grow in the ground; two of the most poplar of these flowers is the Spathoglottis plicata and the Bletilla striata varieties.
These flowers can usually be found in green house nurseries, or if your local nursery does not carry them you can purchase them from a specialty grower. The leaves of the ground orchid are green and shaped a little like a spear; the flowers bloom on a long stalk in a variety of colors, including yellow, white and purple.
Most ground orchid flowers originate from Southeast Asia, and as so many of the bright and colorful flowers, these flowers do prefer a tropical climate. They grow best in regions that are damp and humid; if you attempt to grow these flowers in a climate that is too cold, they may not even bloom.
Of course if you live in a cold climate you do still have the option of growing them in pots and keeping them indoors. No matter if you are planting the Ground Orchid outdoors or in pots you will want to do some research on the particular growing conditions needed for the variety of orchid you are going to plant, as each of them may be a little different. For example, some Ground Orchids will need plenty of light, while others will strive when they are planted in partial shade.
If you live in a dry climate, you may also want to consider growing your Ground Orchids inside. Even when you plant indoors, you will have to ensure that the humidity level in your home is above 40 percent to ensure that your flowers are getting the maximum amount of humidity that they need to grow properly. If your house is not humid enough you can help to increase the humidity around your flowers by filling a humidity tray with a layer of pebbles and water. You will want to place the plant on the pebbles but ensure that the plant itself, and its roots do not come in direct contact with the pebbles.
To grow the Ground Orchid flower you will have to have the best quality soil. Where most types of plants will do okay with average soil, this species of flower needs very rich soil. If planting outdoors use a layer of high quality topsoil, indoors you will want to buy rich potting soil. In both cases you will have to fertilize on a regular basis.
Watering the Ground Orchid properly is important. These flowers must not have to little or too much water. The best way to know when to water is to feel the soil, as soon as it feels like it is drying out you should water. If you keep the soil too wet the roots will rot, and if the soil becomes too dry the flowers will die from lack of moisture.
Although the Ground Orchid will do well in warm, humid temperatures during the day, at night the temperatures should be cooler, about 55F to 60F. Keeping the temperature cooler at night will help to keep the soil from drying out.
When the Ground Orchid begins to have areas that are yellowing you will want to prune them. Not only will this help your flowers to look better, but it will also encourage new growth.
The Ground Orchid flower is beautiful addition to your indoor or outdoor garden, especially if you love exotic flowers.