Choosing the right Garden Orchid

Over the years, the range of garden orchids offered by Phytesia has grown considerably, so that today about fifty selected varieties are available for sale.

Of course, not all of these perennial orchids grow in similar environments.  In the wild, some are found in the undergrowth, others prefer wet grasslands, dry grasslands or the edges of ponds or streams. Respecting the conditions specific to each variety, as much as possible, is obviously a source of success.
  

So, what are the important factors for successful orchid cultivation?
 

Cypripedium

The vast majority of Cypripedium survive largely negative temperatures during the winter rest period. Frost is very rarely the cause of a problem in culture. On the other hand, Cypripedium appreciate the locations which remain cool and humid in summer. Much more than frost, summer drought or excessive summer heat can cause problems. The Cypripedium rhizome must never dry completely during the summer. That’s why we recommend a location protected from the sun during the hottest hours of the day (avoid the sun between 11am and 6pm). Also choose wooded environments. The coolness of the evening or night will allow the plant to "recover" even in case of strong diurnal heat.
Ideally, the soil at the plantation site should remain moist in summer. Clayey soil (but not too compact) is very suitable. To help you keep a certain humidity, don’t hesitate to incorporate 10 to 30% lava stone (pumice) which has the ability to absorb excess humidity and release it gradually. Be careful, commonly-available pozzolana does not have the same ability and is much less suitable.
In order to maintain some soil moisture during the summer, mulching can be beneficial. However, avoid the use of pine bark or needles that tend to acidify the soil, but instead use short-lived plant debris such as leaves, straw, and grass clippings. We advise using straw only for the hot and dry periods of summer. We advise against winter mulching, which may retain too much moisture in the soil and cause rhizomes to rot. In addition, Cypripedium does not require any protection from the cold in winter if planted in the garden.
Finally, if you have little experience with Cypripedium, you should favour hybrid varieties (Cypripedium 'ventricosum red', 'Victoria', 'Gisela', 'Michael white', 'Inge', 'Sabine'...) which are more vigorous, adapt more easily, and will multiply more quickly.
 

Calanthe

Similar to Cypripedium, Calanthe enjoy places that stay cool. They like a protected atmosphere, a humus-rich, light, cool, regularly humid soil.
Plant the Calanthe in a protected situation, in clear and humid undergrowth, or even near water points, in the company of Cypripedium, ferns, or hostas.
The soil should never dry up in summer but should never be waterlogged in winter.Expose them, in the semi-shade, at the edge of large trees.
Terrestrial Calanthe are quite greedy plants in the growing season: a supply of geranium-type fertilizer every week at 1/2 dose from mid-May to mid-September will be very beneficial.
Calanthe can withstand a minimum temperature of -10°C to -15°C. It is advisable, at least in regions with severe winters, to protect them during long periods of freezing (temperatures below -10°C for a long period). No protection is required outside these periods.

  
Bletilla

A little gem for lovers of original plants, Bletilla is easy to live with in favourable conditions (humus-rich and fresh soil). It can be planted in solid wood, rockery, undergrowth or even in pots. In an undergrowth atmosphere or not far from a pool, it will accompany hostas, Solomon's seals and ferns. It adapts to both humid climates and warmer regions where it should be watered regularly. It will enjoy the shade of low shrubs such as Santolines, Ottoluykens cherry laurel, Boxwood or Myrtus tarentina. A carefree plant, it will still fill visitors with admiration if they’re convinced that growing orchids is only for professionals!

Dactylorhiza, Epipactis

Dactylorhiza and Epipactis are terrestrial orchids, widespread in the wild throughout many parts of Europe, which are very robust and have excellent hardiness. The varieties offered by Phytesia resist largely negative temperatures (-20°C).

Most species of Dactylorhiza and Epipactis require moist soils. Some species, however, are more tolerant.

In general, most of these orchids will prefer semi-shaded sites. However, do not place them in total shade. Flowering is generally weaker and less colourful when planting in total shade. Many of these species will also be able to grow in sunnier environments, provided the soil remains moist and cool throughout the summer. When in doubt, choose a semi-shaded location.

As for Cypripedium, favour more vigorous hybrid varieties (Epipactis 'Sabine', Dactylorhiza 'Foliorella')