Orchids were considered to be a greenhouse plant. But there are many varieties which, when given appropriate conditions and care will do quite well in a home environment. Some varieties may be difficult to grow, and therefore best left to greenhouse culture. Most cool-growing orchids will not thrive in hot, tropical conditions because they come from the world's mountainous regions, which are often shrouded in mist and clouds. The plants will not thrive and their flowers will wilt and fall within days, if they are grown in such conditions.
Orchids are different from other houseplants. Most orchids in the wild are not rooted in the ground, but instead attach themselves by thick roots to the sides of trees and on branches. Clinging to the bark, the plants absorb water and nutrients from the air and rain and whatever drips down the tree. They are adapted to surviving when rain is scarce, hoarding water in thick leaves, stems and roots.
In the house, orchids are grown in pots filled with chips of bark, stones, treefern, charcoal pieces or some other loosely packed material, which keeps roots well-aerated and permits water to drain quickly.
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