Over the last few weeks we’ve been lucky enough to watch our orchid boast a number of large, full blooms. It really is a spectacular display given we’ve not given this orchid much attention other than watering.
I was reading Ciar’s In a Vase on a Monday post in Carrots and Calendula and I thought to myself, what a great way to show off our lovely orchid!
The In a vase on a Monday posts were started by Cathy at Rambling in the Garden, and so this is my contribution.
This orchid is a phalaenopsis orchid, or more commonly known as a moth orchid because somebody somewhere thought that the flowers resemble moths (perhaps someone bred a brownish one first). I think these look more like butterflies personally. Around 10 years ago or more there was an advance in orchid breeding techniques which meant that they became easier to grow and supply the market with. As a result, the cost of an orchid became more reasonable. Orchids are now Britain’s favourite house plant – especially the moth orchid as they don’t require much attention.
Our moth orchid has been with us since 2014 after it was given to us as a moving in gift. It’s been living on our windowsill ever since and has benefited from as much sunlight the UK has to offer.
I would estimate that the main stem is at least 40cm – 50cm in length and hasn’t required any stabilising, it’s simply been leaning on the window. The only stabilising I’ve given it is the stick in the pot that I added to take a decent photo. I suspect that this year in spring, we’ll need to repot this orchid as the roots are starting to escape the top of the pot.
Moth orchids are great because they can flower all year round – the rise in orchid sales can also be attributed to the fact that they last longer than a bunch of cut flowers and they really do add a great splash of colour to any room or windowsill. With white and pink blooms on offer from our orchid, a pink pot does the job superbly.
I’m hoping to do more of these type of posts in order to give the house plants some coverage. Thanks Cathy for the inspiration! 🙂
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