Planting Orchids Outdoors

Orchids feature exotic blooms and graceful shapes. In mid-winter many varieties are in full bloom. Master gardener Chris Dawson visits a yard in Zone 10, which experiences an average annual low of 30 to 40 degrees F, to add orchids to the landscape. The garden includes a large collection of epiphytic orchids (which grow on trees) near a shady porch and has ideal conditions for terrestrial (ground) growers. Chris identifies areas in the existing garden beds where a variety of terrestrial orchids will fill in nicely and also installs an epiphytic orchid on a tree.

Butterfly orchid

Butterfly orchid (Epidendrum x o'brienianum) has long, arching, cane-like stems and flowers much of the year. Suited for Zone 10, it prefers medium to high light conditions, ample water and well-draining, rich, amended soil. It needs a trellis or support until its roots get established in the ground.

Ground orchid

Ground orchid (Spathoglottis plicata) has long, sword-like leaves and tight clusters of flowers on tall spikes. It prefers medium to high light conditions, ample water and rich soil.

Nun's Cap orchid

Nun's cap orchid (Phaius tankervilleae) is an annual spring bloomer that sends up long spikes with flowers that have white and purple petals. It prefers shady areas, ample water and rich soil. Slugs and snails like this one, so watch for tell-tale signs and take measures to prevent damage.

To amend soil for an orchid, mix equal parts of peat moss, shredded cyprus mulch and organic fertilizer and add it to native soil. Peat moss holds moisture, and shredded cyprus improves drainage. Chris uses worm castings for the fertilizer. Be sure to thoroughly mix the amendment with the soil before adding it back into the planting hole.

Enjoy an epiphytic orchid year-round by making it mobile. You can attach it to a tree in warm weather and take it indoors in cold weather.

In warmer climates of south Florida, gardeners can attach epiphytic growers directly to crevices of trees. In colder climates, you can still grow epiphytic orchids in trees with a modified technique.

• Attach a wire S-hook to the driftwood. Chris also recommends attaching a plant identification tag so you know which type of orchid you have.
  
• Place osmunda fiber against the driftwood. Use sphagnum moss if you can't find the fiber.
  
• Press the orchid against the osmunda fiber and secure it with plastic-coated wire.
  
• Nestle the driftwood into a crevasse on a tree so that it is secure.