How to choose the right orchid when purchasing one
Nowadays it is very easy and cheap to buy houseplants and, in particular, orchids. Always available in most department stores, supermarkets and online, orchids are the perfect gift idea or wonderful decorations for our homes. But unfortunately, orchids can wither and die quickly easily too.
Losing plants is always a disappointment and it is a real shame when this happens to orchids due to a lack of proper care.
That said, it is also possible that we purchase orchids that are already in bad shape without realizing it. This is why it is essential to know how to choose and buy orchids that are in good condition.
So how do we choose the most suitable orchid for our home? Below are some helpful tips:
How to choose an orchid when buying one
When it's time to choose your orchid, there are some important factors to take into consideration to make sure that your plant is actually healthy and will thrive:
- Roots: The condition of a plant's roots is fundemental. Look carefully at the roots of the orchid you are about to buy: they should be long and bright green, lighter if the roots are dry, dark if they are wet. If the roots are dark and brown or white or silvery, it means that they are dead or rotten and a plant whose roots are already dead certainly cannot live for long. In order to carefully evaluate the health of the roots, you can do a preliminary test: gently grab the plant near the base and shake it slightly, if the roots are not anchored to the pot, lift the plant up to examine them better.
- Leaves: The second thing to evaluate are the leaves, which should be firm, thick and rubbery and light green in color (similar to a Granny Smith apple). Also check that they are free of insects, imperfections and soft spots, often caused by the presence of bacteria.
- Flowers: Examine the flowers; ideally, purchase plants with buds that are not completely open. If it is a extended-flowering species, the flowers could last more than a month if you buy the plant whilst it is still budding.
Initial care for an orchid that has just been purchased
Christine Matthews/Wikimedia Commons
When purchasing, inform yourself about the species of orchid you have chosen: in fact, there are numerous varieties and they can have very different cultivation needs. By knowing what type of orchid you have (ie. its proper name), you can easily find information online (and elsewhere) about it.
Once you get home, you can display your orchids in the center of the room, perhaps on the dining room table or on the living room table, but remember that the chosen spot must provide the correct lighting and humidity conditions. Be careful of cold drafts and vents and don't overwater your orchid. Despite being tropical plants that require a humid environment, orchids perfer not to be soaking in water.
Now you are really ready to enjoy your orchid!
