The blood orchid is a beautiful plant prized for its flowers that bloom in various blood-red hues. This plant is relatively rare and grows in the rainforests of Borneo. Let’s look at how to grow and care for a blood orchid flower!
What is a Blood Orchid Flower?
Blood orchids are a type of Orchid that’s part of the Orchidaceae family. It has flowers in various shades, from deep pink to blood-red or even brownish-red.
This flower has been the subject of many myths and legends throughout history. It’s said to represent death and permanence and is often grown at Easter to represent the blood of Christ. The plant also has alchemical uses and is often depicted in images of Artemis, the goddess of death. Blood red orchids are also reportedly used by tribes for rituals.
(Other flowers that start with the letter B)
How to Care for a Blood Orchid Flower?
This type of Orchid can be cared for exactly the same as most other orchid varieties. If properly cared for, an orchid can live a long time. They are easy to take care of; just don’t let them dry out completely between waterings. Here are some tips to help you care for a blood orchid flower:
Sunlight needs
Blood orchids don’t need very much light, but they should not be placed in dark places either. These plants prefer indirect, filtered sunlight. If you place them outside during the summer months, they must be always protected from direct sunlight. Blood orchids can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 5 to 9 but are more commonly kept as a houseplant.
Watering requirements
Make sure to always water blood orchids enough, not too much nor too little. The best way to check how moist the soil is by pressing it with your finger and feeling whether it’s dry or wet. Blood orchids like to be watered from the bottom, so place your plant in a small dish of water for a few minutes.
Humidity
The humidity level should be between 40% and 50% to ensure the healthiest growth, so use an ultrasonic humidifier if your house is too dry or mist your plant’s leaves regularly.
Temperature
Blood orchids need a temperature between 70°F and 80°F, so it’s best to place them near a window where they will receive warmth and sunlight. Don’t leave orchids in cold areas if the temperature is likely to fall below 55°F, as this may kill your plant. Be careful not to leave your blood orchid flower in cold draughts from the window or air conditioning.
Fertilization
Make sure not to fertilize more than once every two weeks during the growing season. You can use an orchid fertilizer or normal plant food diluted to half strength. You can even use coffee grounds for orchid fertilizer.
Pests and diseases
Blood orchid flowers are not likely to get affected by many pests or diseases. If you see any signs of insects, you should remove them immediately before they start to spread to other parts of the plant. The most common problems include aphids, mealybugs, and spider mites. These can be killed using either neem oil or an insecticidal spray.
Soil type
The best soil is a mixture of peat moss, sphagnum moss, and perlite for the blood orchid flower. In most cases, you can grow your plant in the pot you’ve received it in. The blood orchid flower prefers a soil pH range of between 5.5 and 6.5. The soil should be slightly acidic for your plant to thrive.
Pruning
Blood orchid flowers are beautiful and long-lasting. They produce new flowers after the first blooms fade. Orchids don’t require pruning, but you can cut off the old flowers just above the leaves. Once the flowering stem is removed, the plant can direct its energy to produce new blooms or grow stronger roots.
Conclusion
When purchasing an orchid, make sure that there is no sign of insects or disease on it before you purchase it. It should also have two to three thick healthy stems and lots of healthy roots. When you receive your Orchid, remove the wrapping carefully so as not to damage any of your plant.
Colorful flowers are one of the main reasons that people buy an orchid plant. Orchids come in all different colors and sizes. Some bloom only once a year, while others have blooms that last for months at a time. No matter what color you prefer, orchid flowers will make your home glow with beauty.
Related Orchids: Swan Orchid, Poor Man’s Orchid