How to grow orchids in Perth

Orchids thrive in Perth. The botanical name for orchids is (Phalaenopsis) with around 28,000 different varieties of orchid, each with varying requirements, so it’s not a surprise that many find it a little intimidating. Orchids will grow well in most parts of Western Australia when given protection and bright filtered sunlight. Cymbidiums are the BEST orchid plant for beginners.

If you have ever wondered how to grow orchids in Perth, Western Australia then look no further. A relatively plant to grow there are a few tricks to successfully growing orchids in Perth, but get these right and you will be laughing.

When do orchids flower?
Most orchids bloom once a year, but if they are really happy, they may bloom more often.

Types of orchids in Western Australia:
With over 28,000 varieties of orchids you would be forgiven for not knowing where to start.  For beginners I recommend one of these 4 easy orchid varieties for beginners.

Easy Orchid Varieties for Beginners

• Cymbidiums – Commonly known as boat orchids. Cymbidium Orchid is a stunning plant that produces exquisite, scented blooms. Perfect for indoor colour, or in pots in a shady position outside, they make a great flower display in winter and early spring. Fertilise regularly with slow release fertiliser to keep them healthy.
• Cattleya – The genus has over 60 species and Cattleya Orchids are originally from tropical Central and South America, they do well in warmer situations. As for growing them, these are fairly hardy plants, easy care and cattleyas are good orchids for beginners.
• Phalaenopsis –  Phalaenopsis or moth orchids are long-lived flowering pot plants that add style and grace to any indoor setting. They are available year round with flowers that last for months. The flowers are usually purple, white or a combination of both.
• Paphiopedilum – Paphiopedilum orchids are nicknamed “slipper orchids” because of the unusual shape of their flowers. Some of the easiest to care for, Paphiopedilum produce beautiful, long-lasting blooms.

How to grow orchids at home:
Orchids are a nice addition to any garden.

1. Choose a well drained spot in the garden that gets dappled sunlight during the day and protection from the afternoon sun.
2. Fill the area where they are to grow with specialised orchid mix.
3. Dig the planting hole twice as wide and to the same depth as the root-ball. Remove the plant from the container, gently tease the roots.
4. Position in hole and back fill, gently firming down. Sprinkle some pellets of Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver Plant Fertiliser on top of the plant.
5. Water your orchid in well
6. Feed with Orchid Liquid Plant Food every 2-4 weeks.

Growing orchids in pots:
Growing orchids in pots is a great idea. Orchids love humidity so it’s important to have the pot standing in a saucer of pebbles or blue metal but make sure the pot isn’t directly sitting in water.

1. Choose a pot that has adequate drainage holes and place it in a position that gets dappled sunlight during the day and protection from the afternoon sun.
2. Fill with a quality Orchid potting mix.
3. Remove the plant from the container, gently tease the roots.
4. Position in pot and back fill, gently firming down.
5. Sprinkle some pellets of Dynamic Lifter Soil Improver and Plant Fertiliser on top of the pot.
6. Water in well.
7. Feed with Orchid Liquid Plant Food every 2-4 weeks.

Growing orchids from cuttings:
Cuttings are one of the easiest ways to propagate orchids.

Growing orchids from seed:
Orchid seeds are like dust, and need extremely specific conditions to grow, this separates their germination difficulty from that of other plants.

Should orchids be pruned?
Yes orchids require pruning once the flowers fall off. You can easily trim dead stems on your orchid to improve its overall health. You can also prune an orchid to promote flowering.

How often should I water orchids?
Soak your orchid in a bowl of water every week or two – when the moss dries out. Unlike most houseplants, you don’t need to keep orchid moss evenly moist; if it stays too moist, the orchid can rot.

Best fertiliser for orchids:
Choose a fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (look for 20-20-20 on the label).

1. Fertilizer should be used at half-strength, mixing it with an equal amount of water before applying it to your orchid.
2. Using a narrow-spouted pitcher, slowly pour the fertilizer into the pot, avoiding leaves.
3. Drain any excess solution.
4. Skip watering on fertilizing days.
5. Repeat once or twice a month.

Notes:
Don’t leave dead flower spikes on the orchid. Remove as soon as blooms have finished.

Check out our other how to grow in Perth guides:

• Growing Bearded iris in Perth
• Growing Geraldton wax in Perth
• Growing grevilleas in Perth