Epiphytes are orchids that cling to trees, supporting themselves on the bark. They receive all the water they need when rain water runs or drips down the tree. They can obtain what it needs from the air.



Lithophytes are a type of orchid that grows on rocks. Saprophytes grow in leaf litter, and terrestrials are found growing in sand.

Orchids, like other plants, prefer certain conditions when growing in the wild. You need to bear this in mind when growing them under greenhouse conditions. Being aware and armed with information of what makes them thrive, you can provide a good environment for them.

For orchids, it's not very difficult at all to create a natural setting for them to grow in. It is simple to obtain volcanic rocks or fir bark chips. Most orchids only need small amounts of water at regular intervals. Allow enough time between watering for them to dry. With a loosely packed base, it is easily drained.

Your orchids should be re-potted every two or three years. Not only will they begin to outgrow their pots, but the material that they grow in will usually begin to break down as well. This is caused, mainly, by insect activity and repeated watering. If your plant's roots are beginning to grow over the side of the pot, it's time to replant.

It is far easier to re-pot such plants when we compare it to traditional plants. Do remember to exercise caution when dealing with plants. This procedure should only be undertaken when the plant is at it's lowest level of activity. For instance, it would be in early Spring, before its major growth spurt.

Be cautious when you take the plant from its pot and remove any remaining material from its roots. To give the plant the best chance of surviving in it's new pot, clip off any damaged or unhealthy looking roots.

Many times this move will be made to a larger pot. Refill the pot with the proper growing media, whether it's bark, lava rocks or something else. There is also a special orchid sphagnum moss that works quite well for some types. Clear a place to insert your plant and refill up to the crown (rhizome).

If necessary, support the plant with a stake. Use it for a while, until the plant can grow without toppling.

Keep in mind that the orchid absorbs the majority of the nutrients from the surrounding air and not the growing medium. Make sure you provide proper airflow.

The amount of air available to the roots is dependent on the chip size. Ensure that the correct type of pot material is used for the plant. When the plant begins to grow new leaves, you can fertilize with a small amount of 18-18-18.