Orchids have become popular houseplants that are known for their beautiful, exotic flowers. When purchasing an orchid, it is important to select a healthy plant that will thrive in your environment. Read on for some tips to help you choose a healthy orchid for your home.
Healthy Leaves
Look for healthy leaves: The leaves of a healthy orchid should be green, firm, and free from brown spots or other signs of damage. Avoid plants with yellow or wilted leaves, which can indicate poor health.
Healthy Roots
Check the roots: The roots of a healthy orchids should generally be white or light green and firm to the touch. Orchids that have reddish tips on their roots are even better; it indicates that the plant is actively growing. Avoid plants with brown, mushy, broken or slimy roots, which can indicate poor health or a lack of proper care.
More more information on orchids:
Jewel Orchid Potting Mix Recipes
How to Convert Orchids to Semi-Hydro
Vibrant Flowers
Check the flowers: The flowers of a healthy orchid should be vibrant and colorful, with no signs of browning or wilting. Avoid plants with flowers that are past their prime, as they may not bloom again for a while.
No Crown Rot
Crown rot is difficult, if not outright impossible, to reverse. This occurs most often in orchids that have monopodial growth habits, like the Phalaenopsis or Vanda orchid. Orchids with monopodial growth have one upright stem that is their primary source of growth. Crown rot occurs when water is caught at the base of the leaves where they join to the stem of the plant. This causes the center of the orchid to rot and all the leaves to fall off.
If the stem of the orchid is soft, yellow and mushy instead of being dense, green and firm, then it’s likely that it has crown rot. Save yourself the trouble and choose another orchid.
Good Potting Media
Check the potting media: A healthy orchid should be potted in a well-draining potting media, such as a mix of sphagnum moss, bark, and perlite. Avoid plants that are potted in soil, which can retain too much moisture and lead to root rot. The only exception to this rule are terrestrial orchids like jewel orchids.
Check for Pests
Checking plants for pests before buying is crucial for maintaining a healthy collection. Pests can quickly spread and infest other plants, causing significant damage. In some cases, they can even kill the plant. Moreover, some pests are carriers of plant diseases, which can be transmitted to other plants and cause widespread harm. By checking the plants for pests before purchasing, you can ensure that you are not introducing any unwanted pests or diseases into your home. This will save you time, money, and effort in the long run, and it will also help to protect the health of your other plants.
Check The Pot
The pot should be clean and free from mold or mildew. Avoid plants that are extremely pot-bound, with roots growing out of the drainage holes or circling the inside of the pot.
Conclusion
In summary, when purchasing a orchid, it is important to examine it carefully for signs of ill health. Avoid plants that show signs of pests, diseases, or improper care. Check the tag for cultural requirements, and don’t hesitate to ask for assistance from the staff at the store. By following these tips, you can choose a healthy orchid that will thrive in your home.
Always Keep Growing,
Heather (a.k.a. The Botanical Chick)
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