Hardy Terrestrial Orchids for Exotic Perennial Gardens

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	Lady's Slipper Francis	NEW Book! Great Gift! Expert advice on growing Hardy Orchids

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   The Wild Orchid Company is a family owned company dedicated to the ethical production and sales of hardy terrestrial orchids for the perennial garden.  Our focus is on an assortment of upland and wetland terrestrial orchid species.  The objective is to give the outdoor gardener the potential for a variety of uses which could range from integral parts of a woodland garden, to simple showy standouts in a backyard, pond or bog garden.  We are producing a number of species such as several Lady’s Slipper species (Cypripedium), Grass Pink (Calopogon), Rose Pogonia (Pogonia),  Ladies’ Tresses (Spiranthes), Hardy Chinese Orchid ( Bletilla), Egret Flower ( Pectelis [Habenaria]) and more. See the full list here.

            When most outdoor gardeners hear “orchid” they automatically think of the tropical species which require a greenhouse or indoor growing. But there is a whole class of orchids known as “hardy terrestrial orchids." These perennials actually survive and thrive in soil and in temperate to more frigid climates.  Some of them actually require temperatures at or below freezing for several months each year to maintain proper growth, much like tulips or daffodils. This is not to say that terrestrial orchids can be planted anywhere and expected to grow!   To be successful, it is absolutely necessary to plan ahead and prepare a site to meet the specific requirements for the species to flourish.

            Generally speaking, the most important requirement is good internal soil drainage, which in most cases requires excavation and the addition of a very sandy premixed soil in a raised bed manner. Sand and/or Perlite™ are the key ingredients to achieving good drainage.   Soil moisture requirements vary among species, and the addition of good leaf compost increases the moisture holding capacity which is necessary for most species as well as gives the necessary nutrients for healthy plant growth. All orchids grow better with low mineral and well aerated water, i.e. rainwater.  

            Orchids have very low nutrient requirements, and do not tolerate high nutrient fertilizers. The addition of a good leaf or bark compost to the soil mix is sufficient to supply necessary nutrients.  The use of reduced strength fertilizers is sometimes necessary, but only at about 20 -25% of the rate recommended for most flowering plants.

            Hardy terrestrial orchids can be a beautiful, exotic, and easily maintained addition to your garden, if you are willing to pay attention to the guidelines and carefully prepare the soil before planting.  The Wild Orchid Company supplies detailed instructions for each species to help you insure a successful gardening experience.   

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