Newbie - very new

[Moggitte]

Hi folks - I bought my first orchid a year ago, a Phalaenopsis. It bloomed for me this year and I was thrilled. So now I want more. Are orchids like cats? You can't have just one? I have two questions: I am moving to another state and want to take my baby with me. What's the best way to transport it through a 12 hour drive? Second: my new home is surrounded wood, so there is little light in the house. What orchids can grow in minimal light? Thanks, y'all.

[SaraJean]

Originally Posted by Moggitte

Are orchids like cats? You can't have just one?

Purfect description and yes, I don’t understand how anyone could stop at one orchid (or cat for that matter). There are a ton of Phal hybrids to explore with different flower colors and some with pretty mottled leaves. Different low light types would include the Ludisia discolor (jewel orchid) that is grown primarily for is gorgeous foliage. Also, many of the mottled leaf paphiopedilum hybrids, you will see these listed as a maudiae hybrid or vinicolor hybrid, are suitable for low light (not NO light) windowsill conditions and have similar care requirements as a phal hybrid with needing a bit more moisture. I kept one in very crappy light this past year and it’s in bud now. I’m sure others will jump in with some more recommendations. Plus, there’s always grow lights!

[Roberta]

Much worse than cats (where one usually stops with 2 or 3) Orchids are more like potato chips, certainly one is not enough... Welcome!

[fishmom]

Welcome, moggitte. Regarding the trip to your new home, the phal will do just fine. Give it a good watering a day or two ahead, then transport in a spot where it is well protected from direct sun. Sunburn is your biggest problem, as the sun angle changes as you drive. If you can fit the plant in a cardboard box and fold the top over, it will be shaded and it will do just fine with no light for a day. Try not to let the car get too hot either--like over 100 degrees F. Phals are heat lovers, though, so heat is not a big problem.


Regarding light, a rule of thumb for phals is to put the plant in place and hold your hand above it. If you see a sharp-edged shadow, the light is too bright. If no shadow, it's too dim. If the shadow is obvious but blurred on the edges, it will probably work. Phals are deep shade plants so they do not need a lot of light. Good luck.