How do you keep a orchid alive?

I have had many but they always die

I must be doing something wrong

How do you keep a orchid alive?
The usual causes of orchid death are the same as most other houseplants: too much water, or not enough. Some orchids have root rot even before you take them home, because the store staff doesn't know how to take care of them...



I solved that problem by switching my orchids to semi-hydroponic media- makes the watering pretty idiot-proof- if there's water in the reservoir, it's fine; if not, top it off. I've found orchids to actually be easier to grow than other houseplants...



http://www.firstrays.com/semi-hydro.htm



The other thing that kills orchids (particularly the blooms, but sometimes the whole plant) is too low humidity. I got a battery-powered thermometer/hygrometer (humidity meter) from Wal-mart, and if the humidity drops below about 40%, I turn on the humidifier.



Care sheets for several common types of orchids can be found here:

http://www.aos.org/aos/orchids/orchids.a...
Reply:Each type of orchid requires specific guidelines.



If you know the name of your orchid you can look up what they need.



Some like a lot of light, some like dark

some like a lot of water, others dont

usually you only have to fertilize them during their blooming period.

most prefer warmer water



but without knowing what type you have its hard to say what you are doing wrong.
Reply:you can find a book about orchids..



keep in mind.. they are beautiful and TEMPERMENTAL!!



you can also use the internet to find info..



you may want to try an easier houseplant! :)
Reply:do you mean the flowers always die or the whole plant? If you mean the flowers die, that is normal - the blooms only last for a period of time. Then the plant is left to grow until the next blooming cycle.

Best advice is to get info on the web or get a book on orchids so you understand the plants needs.
Reply:the craft store sells crystals you can sprinkle on the plant , and they preserve the plant so it will stay beautifull forever and you won't have to do anything but dust it