HOW TO GROW ORCHIDS 
We are often asked if it is feasible to grow orchids in the home. This question 
may occur to any plant lover cultivating a few geraniums or African violets on a 
window ledge in the home. We try to explain this so that you may form your own 
answer. 
To begin with, orchid plants are not frail, delicate or sensitive. They are, in fact, 
very tough, rugged plants. 
You need not be afraid of orchids. They are just as easy to grow as many more 
common houseplants. Of course, if you have a small greenhouse, it is easier to 
provide the ideal conditions, but many people grow orchids in their homes. 
Certain conditions for culture are essential and must be observed. 
Location: Preferably an eastern exposure. Southern is good but requires more 
shading. In summer (June through August), most plants can have full sunlight until 
9:30 a.m. If the exposure is southern, use light shading, such as gauze or cheese- 
cloths, between 9:30 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. on sunny summer days. In winter, full light 
generally will not burn: the foliage. 
Watering: In winter, spray on sunny morning, or when compost is dry. In summer, 
spray on sunny mornings and again in mid-afternoon if very warm (over 80). Allow 
plants to dry out between waterings, summer or winter. Remember that spraying 
means sprinkling lightly; watering means soaking thoroughly. Let your schedule for 
watering be determined by the dryness of the compost. This schedule may vary from 
every 4 to every 12 days. The more frequent schedule is necessary during long dry 
spells in summer, or if there is excessive artificial heating in winter. The less frequent 
schedule is followed when natural humidity slows up the drying of the compost. This 
happens during rainy or cloudy spells. When buds start to open, cut down water. 
Spray only compost every 3 or 4 days; avoid wetting flowers. 
When plant has finished flowering, repot in next size pot it the plant has no more 
room for new growths. Allow plant to rest about 10 days before resuming regular 
spraying and watering schedule. 
Provide circulation of air without sudden drafts. Maintain a minimum temperature 
of 55-60° at night and 70° during the day. Higher daytime temperatures will do no 
harm. During warm, humid weather hang plants out of doors in semi-shady location. 
Orchids like fresh air if it is warm. 
A Wardian case (a glass box fitted with an automatic heating unit and a tray of 
water) is recommended for maintaining greater uniformity of temperature and 
humidity. 
We recommend alternate feedings of Wilson's orchid fertilizer and Ortho-Gro (fish 
emulsion) every 2 weeks when plants are in active growth. 
New orchid growers can profit by joining the American Orchid Society. Membership 
includes a subscription to the Bulletin. (See page 65.) 
About the cost of the plants: They may now be purchased at very reasonable 
prices. We recommend and list standard varieties for the beginner for trial. (See 
“Collections’”’ on page 19.) A single flowering size Cattleya plant or a Phalaenopsis 
plant may be had for $8.95 postpaid U.S.A. Phalaenopsis can be shipped with flower 
spike only from November through January. 
The above information is intended for general culture of orchids in the home and 
especially for the Cattleya and allied genera, such as Lc. (Laeliocattleya), Bc. (Brasso- 
cattleya) and Blc. (Brassolaeliocattleya). Any special cultural information for other 
types is given under the individual listings. 
and Boynton Beach on the Gulf Stream 20 
