Florist Guide to Potted Orchid Varieties
Orchids are a popular choice for potted plants due to their stunning blooms, long flowering periods, and diverse varieties. This guide provides an overview of common potted orchid varieties, their characteristics, care requirements, and tips for florists to ensure healthy plants and satisfied customers.
1. Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid)
Description: Known for their elegant, moth-like flowers, Phalaenopsis orchids are the most popular potted orchids due to their ease of care and long-lasting blooms (up to 3 months). Flowers come in white, pink, purple, yellow, and spotted patterns.
Light: Bright, indirect light. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent leaf burn.
Watering: Water every 7-10 days when the potting medium (usually bark or sphagnum moss) feels dry. Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Temperature: 65-85°F (18-29°C). Ideal for indoor environments.
Humidity: 50-70%. Mist leaves or use a humidity tray if air is dry.
Florist Tips:
Display in decorative ceramic pots to enhance aesthetic appeal.
Educate customers on minimal watering to avoid common overwatering mistakes.
Recommend placing near east-facing windows for optimal light.
2. Dendrobium
Description: These orchids feature cane-like stems with clusters of flowers in white, purple, pink, or green. They are slightly more challenging but reward with vibrant blooms.
Light: Bright, indirect light with some morning sun tolerated.
Watering: Water weekly during active growth (spring/summer), reducing to every 2 weeks in fall/winter when dormant.
Temperature: 60-85°F (15-29°C). Cooler nights (55-60°F) encourage blooming.
Humidity: 50-60%. Good air circulation is key to prevent fungal issues.
Florist Tips:
Highlight their upright growth for unique arrangements.
Offer varieties like Dendrobium nobile for beginners due to easier care.
Advise customers to reduce watering in winter to mimic dormancy.
3. Cattleya (Corsage Orchid)
Description: Known for large, fragrant, and colorful blooms (purple, pink, white, or yellow), Cattleyas are statement pieces often used in corsages. They have a shorter bloom period (2-4 weeks).
Light: Bright, indirect light with some direct morning sun.
Watering: Water every 5-7 days when the medium is dry. Ensure good drainage.
Temperature: 65-85°F (18-29°C) during the day, with a 10-15°F drop at night.
Humidity: 50-70%. Use pebble trays or humidifiers in dry climates.
Florist Tips:
Market as a premium gift due to their bold, fragrant flowers.
Suggest repotting every 1-2 years to refresh the medium (bark or moss).
Display in well-ventilated areas to showcase their fragrance.
4. Oncidium (Dancing Lady Orchid)
Description: These orchids have small, numerous flowers resembling dancing figures, often in yellow, brown, or white with intricate patterns. They bloom in sprays, adding visual drama.
Light: Bright, indirect light. Tolerates more light than Phalaenopsis.
Watering: Water every 5-7 days, ensuring the medium dries slightly between waterings.
Temperature: 60-80°F (15-27°C). Prefers cooler nights to bloom.
Humidity: 55-75%. Mist regularly or use a humidity tray.
Florist Tips:
Promote for customers seeking unique, cascading blooms.
Stake flower spikes to prevent drooping and enhance display.
Warn customers about sensitivity to overwatering.
5. Paphiopedilum (Lady Slipper Orchid)
Description: Recognizable by their pouch-like flowers, Paphiopedilums have striking blooms in green, white, pink, or brown, often with mottled leaves. They are ideal for low-light settings.
Light: Low to moderate indirect light, such as north or east-facing windows.
Watering: Keep the medium consistently moist but not soggy. Water every 5-7 days.
Temperature: 60-80°F (15-27°C). Avoid extreme heat.
Humidity: 50-70%. High humidity is critical for healthy growth.
Florist Tips:
Ideal for customers with low-light homes or offices.
Use well-draining pots to prevent water pooling.
Emphasize their unique slipper-shaped flowers for niche appeal.
General Care Tips for Florists
Potting Medium: Most orchids thrive in bark, sphagnum moss, or a mix. Avoid regular potting soil, as it retains too much water.
Repotting: Repot every 1-2 years after blooming to refresh the medium and promote root health.
Fertilizing: Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20) diluted to 1/4 strength weekly during active growth. Reduce in winter.
Pest Control: Watch for pests like spider mites or scale. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap for treatment.
Display: Group orchids with complementary foliage plants to create attractive store displays. Use clear pots to show healthy roots, a sign of quality.
Customer Education
Provide care cards with each purchase, summarizing light, water, and humidity needs.
Advise on avoiding common mistakes like overwatering or placing in direct sunlight.
Suggest trimming spent flower spikes to encourage reblooming, especially for Phalaenopsis.
By understanding these varieties and their needs, florists can confidently recommend the right orchid for any customer, ensuring vibrant blooms and repeat business.
