The orchid has become a very fashionable plant in our homes. Let’s see how to take care of its leaves.
A plant of tropical origin, the orchid is not always able to grow well without knowing the right tricks.
Orchid – a fashionable plant
More and more often, the orchid plant is the favorite gift to give on multiple occasions. Here, therefore, our homes are populated with these exotic and beautiful plants which, however, we are often unable to take care of . Orchids, even if they don’t require a lot of water, need some precautions to grow healthy and healthy.
Their state of health can be known, in particular, through the appearance of the orchid leaves which must be shiny, a beautiful bright green and fleshy.
How to have healthy and vigorous leaves
The orchid leaves, to be healthy and vigorous, should be cleaned with a certain periodicity. In fact, as with all surfaces, thick layers of dust could form on its leaves . If the dust were to remain sedimented on the orchid leaf for a long time, it could lead to the formation of diseases, even if not visible to the naked eye, but could even attract lice. The most common parasite for the orchid remains the cochineal. Diseases and parasites could cause the plant to die quickly, without any apparent cause.
To quickly and effectively clean the leaves of your orchid, there is an easy method: use wet wipes , the ones used for changing newborn diapers. Take care to buy ones with as few chemicals as possible, perfume and more. Sanitizing wipes used to clean bathroom parts, for example, are not recommended because not only are they too scented but they could be too rich in chemical agents.
With the use of wipes, not only does the dust on the leaves disappear but the leaves immediately appear shinier . Alternatively, you can use a solution made up of water, a few drops of lemon and a little hydrating oil, such as almond oil. This solution must be passed over the leaves with the help of a cloth.
To be healthy, the leaves must be dusted and cleaned both top and bottom, at least once every two weeks.
In addition to cleaning, another important precaution to ensure that the leaves are many, green and plump, is that they receive a lot of light for most of the day. We are not necessarily talking about direct but indirect light, better if shielded by a curtain. Contrary to what one might believe, in fact, orchids get most of their light from the leaves and not from the roots. Be careful, though. Direct sun, especially summer sun, can cause the leaves to turn yellow. The optimal temperature, in fact, ranges between 18 and 29 degrees.