Outside for summer?

[marcoeverard]

I have been reading that a lot of orchids enjoy being outside in semi-shade for the summer. I like in the Uk where it can rain a lot in summer so how do you control the amount of water they receive when outside?

[jeremyinsf]

A really big umbrella? Just kidding. Where you grow and what your possibilities are will depend on your circumstances and conditions. Some people (like apartment dwellers) don't have space at all, others live in areas that are too hot or too cool. Then there are those that have set up some sort of greenhouse or dedicated growing area.

What options do you have for growing outside?

[marcoeverard]

Sorry maybe I didn't make myself clear. I have just built a heated orchid house with all the necessary equipment but as it isn't overly bright I thought it would be a good idea to put some of them out in the garden for the summer to get a lot of light and the good daytime/evening temperature differential. However most orchid seem to like only being watered once they approach dryness but this would be very difficult to achieve if it rains fairly regularly.

[jeremyinsf]

Oh ok. Yes, you would probably want to protect them from the constant rain. Maybe put them on a porch or something where something hangs over.

[marcoeverard]

Hmmm ok let me think on it. Perhaps they can just stay in the orchid house and I can open up both the doors and the skylight to get a good breeze through.

[lornaheath]

Hey Mister Marco,

I don't see how our Orchids can tolerate the temps here in Good Old England!!!

The night temps drop so drastically that they could be killed off in a single night with such low temps. I don't think the wet and damp will be the problem.

I like your idea of opening up the Greenhouse and letting the air flow through yet still be protecting them from the rain. That is a sound idea and I think sooo much safer for your precious plants.

Pleased to meet you Sir.

Lorna
x x x

[Island Girl]

Yes, leaving the sides, &/or doors open on your shade house would work, just so they have a roof over their heads to protect them from rain they don't need.... That way, you could control the amount of water they get.

One more thing, as Lorna mentioned, the night-temps... If its going to get below 50-55°F (10-13°C) at night, then you will want them to be dry... If they're wet & cold, their roots will rot.

[orchidsarefun]

Originally Posted by lornaheath

Hey Mister Marco,

I don't see how our Orchids can tolerate the temps here in Good Old England!!!

The night temps drop so drastically that they could be killed off in a single night with such low temps. I don't think the wet and damp will be the problem.

I like your idea of opening up the Greenhouse and letting the air flow through yet still be protecting them from the rain. That is a sound idea and I think sooo much safer for your precious plants.

Pleased to meet you Sir.

Lorna
x x x

I had wondered what happened to momma after she was thrown from the train......