A good book on culture is very helpful as it gives notes on care for different types of orchids.

Most orchids other than Miltonia like their leaves sprayed except in winter. Never spray the flowers. With Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid) only spray in hot weather and be careful not to get water into the crown (centre) of the plant.

A weak dilution of Tomato feed is good for orchids, as is Phostrogen or specialist orchid feeds. As orchids are not hungry plants do not give more than half strength feed. Feed for 3 feeds (at intervals of a week to 1 0 days) and then give plain water the 4th time. This helps to prevent any build up of harmful substances.

It is always better to underwater than to overwater. You can water a dehydrated plant but you will rarely be able to resuscitate a waterlogged one. However in exceptionally hot weather be ready to water two or three times a week instead of the usual once. It is quite safe to use tap water in Cardiff and most of the Vale of Glamorgan, but do allow it to stand for at least an hour but preferably over night to allow Chlorine to evaporate. People elsewhere will have to check with their local Water Company to find if tap water is suitable in their area.

Temperature is important but there is normally quite a wide range that a plant will tolerate. For optimum results it is important to stay within the recommended temps: -

For hot house plants: Min 65'F Max. 85-90'F

Intermediate plants Min 55'F Max. 86'F

Cool plants Min 50'F Max. 75'F

Orchids that grow at very high altitudes in their natural habitat will need cold temperatures during the winter and need to be shaded from strong sun in the summer as their leaves will quickly become scortched. This can leave unsightly marked leaves and the plant will quickly wilt. Some very early morning sun or late afternoon sun can be beneficial to flower production.