Putting Orchids to bed for Winter

As many of you know, my husband and I are moving in the next couple of weeks -- not far. Just across town. One of the things that sold me on the house was the attached greenhouse. The previous owner it filled with orchids, so now I'm on a new quest: To become an orchid grower!

I've never gardened in a greenhouse before so it was nice to find these tips from the Steve Asbell that he posted from the St. Augustine Orchid Society.

General Growing Tips. Short days and cold nights necessitate adjustments for both plants and growers. Reduce water and fertilizer gradually until you reach your winter target, about half that of the summer levels. Don't fertilize winter dormant orchids and most dendrobiums after Thanksgiving. Prepare your plants for their winter home. Inspect them, remove dead leaves and sheaths with a sterile tool, and spray for pests if necessary. Protect them when temperatures are projected to drop below their winter minimum acceptable temperature. Consider removing shading from the greenhouse to allow more light during the winter months.

For more tips on wintering over cattleyas, dendrobiums, oncidiums, Phalaenopsis, vandas. , click here.

For even more detailed growing instructions from Costa Farms, one of the largest orchid growers in the US, visit Orchids are Easy.

Suzi, the orchid grower
Garden Media Group