I have been killing and growing orchids since Spring 2013 (mostly growing
). I started out with a coffee table, a couple of grow lights, and a fan and humidifier. This setup was adequate for the 7-8 orchids I was able to sustain at any one time:
I found a great deal on Ebay for 5 Paphs for $80 + free shipping. I gave it a lot of thought and since now none of my 'chids are on life support anymore, I decided I can now graduate to adding a few additional ones. So...how could I resist these prices? With the setup I had, there was no way, I could accommodate the new plants. I bought a 3 tier shelf with more room that would allow for good air circulation:
Top tier:
Middle shelf:
I am hoping the orchids will be happy with their new setup. On Monday, I will receive the new orchids. Our Northeastern temperatures will go up into the 60's so I coordinated with the vendors to ship them within that warm window. I can't wait to see my new babies!
In the last year, I have learned some things. Besides getting better at watering them and figuring out when to repot them, humidity needs, and stuff like that; I have learned to not get emotionally attached to any particular plant. At first, I would take it personally when an orchid would go downhill and went to great lengths to try to save them; sometimes even at the detriment of my other orchids. Don't get me wrong there is no harm in trying to resuscitate an ailing 'chid, but there comes a point that it's just time to let it go. Nursing a set of roots with no leaves taught me this. I was able to keep the roots alive for some time and then I realized...this plant is never coming back and since my growing area is so small, it's just taking up valuable real estate. It was stressful for me and I felt much better once I forgave myself for killing it and moved on.
I think for us newbies these are great insights and they truly do come with experience. I can't wait to learn much more from this great community and my new plants!
Revamped Growing Area and Lessons Learned
Linear Mode
