We have kept moth [phalenopsis] orchids for years, at one time we had 17 in the dining room. The thought is that they need very little watering and always from the top. I use collected rain water, put the pot into a deep bowl and soak for 15-30 mins.. Drain well. Put back onto saucer. Feed occasionally. I have tried putting them outdoors in the Summer but the slugs get them
!
The other types of orchids need similar care. But need a LOT more feeding [when I remember the name *
].
Orchids are epiphytites i.e. they grow in the air, anchored to a tree in the canopy - therefore getting their watering from all around from the atmosphere hence the long root systems. Except the * which apparently grow in the Himalaya - in the ground and in deep snow!
They don't need compost, bark or even a pot but in the home we are unable to replicate 'natural' conditions. Using fresh bark around the root system helps.
Once they have stopped flowering and the flowers have died and dropped off is the time to cut back the stem: if there are growing nodules cut just above 1, if not go back to the root and cut the stem which encourages new growth.
