I used to think orchids were too hard to grow until I saw one at the Denver Botanic Gardens

I was at the Denver Botanic Gardens last month and saw a huge display of Phalaenopsis orchids that were just thriving. The guide there told me the key is to water them with three ice cubes a week, which keeps the roots from getting too wet. I tried it with one from the grocery store and it's actually blooming again after 2 months. What's the best orchid type for a total beginner to try next?

3 comments

3 Comments

felix_williams711mo ago

Ever think about trying a terrestrial orchid instead?

cole3561mo ago

Got a Dendrobium last year after my first Phal did okay, and I mean, it's still alive somehow. Maybe it's just me but they seem to handle my forgetful watering a bit better, the canes store water. The one I have is a Den. kingianum, super easy.

fiona_murphy1mo ago

Totally agree about the canes storing water. I killed two phals by forgetting them, but my Den. nobile just shrugs it off. Went on a two week trip last summer and it barely noticed. They're like the camels of the orchid world.