Many people think that orchids are very difficult to grow, and some species certainly require special skills. However, the majority of popular varieties are really no more difficult to grow than other house plants, such as African Violets.

As for any plant, the secret to successfully growing an orchid is to duplicate as far as possible the conditions under which it grows naturally. Some orchids grow on tree branches in the tropical jungle, some grow on rocks in the high mountains of South America, some grow in the ground in Gatineau Park, and obviously each one requires very different conditions to thrive. Find out all you can about the natural habitat and try to offer a similar environment.

The three main variables involved are:

• Light intensity
• Watering
• Temperature

Other important points are:

• Fertilizer
• Potting medium
• Air circulation and humidity

Since orchids come from a wide variety of habitats, their cultural requirements will vary quite widely, and conditions which will allow one type to thrive may be fatal to another type. When you buy an orchid, find out from the vendor whether it needs bright sunlight or shade, does it like to be kept wet or allowed to dry out, how cool or warm to keep it, how often to fertilize, and so on. Always try to buy a plant which will thrive under the conditions you are able to provide, rather than buying something which will require you to set up special conditions.