Update: Are orchids toxic to pets?

As an update to a previous post on this topic, I’d like to share a little extra information I have been able to find. Enquiries with a number of organisations seem to suggest that orchids are not toxic to cats and dogs.

Orchid Experiment: Water Culture

Today I wanted to share with you my experience of growing orchids in water culture. I had already heard of this method of growing before one of my viewers asked me for some advice. After talking to them about it, I have been thinking about whether it is a viable growing method.

Mericlone vs. seedling orchids

It’s time to explore some more orchid terminology; ‘mericlone orchid’ and ‘seedling orchid’. There is a distinct difference between the two terms and both types of plant propagation offer different things. Whilst it isn’t essential for you to know the ins and outs of the different types, it is interesting to find out more about how our orchids can be propagated.

Promoting root production on sick orchids

At some stage in your orchid hobby, you will come across a plant that has a diminished root system. This is something that seems to occur quite a lot with orchids sold through gardening stores, supermarkets etc. It can also happen to orchids that have been in your home for some months.

But how do you help your orchid grow new roots?

Dino is creating a new root – a really reassuring sign I am providing the right care for him.

Dendrobium Nobile keiki – update

A while ago I posted about orchid keikis. A family member kindly gifted one of their own Dendrobium Nobile keikis to me, as she had two growing on her mother plant, and I’m pleased to say he is doing well. The keiki itself is strong and happy, the presence of sap suggests he is getting plenty of water to help sustain him.

My Dendrobium nobile keiki that was gifted to me by a family member.

Researching orchids: information overload

A little while ago, I created a post about researching orchids. It is a good idea to find out an orchids care requirements before you purchase it. There is a wealth of information online and you can also talk to orchid nurseries (if you are purchasing from them). But, what happens when you have conflicting information? Sometimes, there is so much information available on the internet, it can be difficult to know what is right and what is wrong.

Researching orchids is important, but sometimes there is too much information available.

Water for orchids: hardness and pH

As an additional piece to a previous post about water for orchids, I wanted to share my recent findings with testing my tap water for hardness and pH.

A sample of our tap water to be tested for hardness and pH.