Bromeliads and Orchids and Daisies….oh, my!
As one sits inside on a cold, blustery day like today and looks outside at the gardens thinking of all that has to be done in the gardens, it downright nice to be able to glance over at the jewel-like tones of bromeliads, orchids and Gerbera daisies. These cheerful plants in bloom make wonderful companions in that they have fairly similar light, water and temperature needs as each other and as their human owners. In fact, all three types of plants are quite easy to grow.
While selecting plants, look for ones that have bold, green foliage without blemishes. Plants should have a sturdy, healthy overall appearance. Be wary of ones that are on display tables close to doors where they can be subject to the extreme fluctuations of temperatures. Choose plants that are in early rather than later stages of bloom. For bromeliads, this means ones with tight bright spikes. Orchids should have at 50% or more unopened flower buds and Gerbera daisies should have at least one open flower with several more coming along.
Temperature ranges for these beauties is pretty much what you would have in your home. They all tolerate temperatures between 55 and 80 F. Placing them in direct line of chills from frequently opened doors or blasts of furnace heat are not good choices.
Light is also a simple matter for these generally unfussy houseplants. You will want to look for an area that has good light but not direct sunlight. Since all three types of plants have similar requirements, you have a lot of options for arranging and re-arranging pots.
How much water to give them is a source of concern for many gardeners. Bromeliads need the least amount of water. The trick is that you don’t water the soil that they are planted in but you put water in the “cup” formed by the leaves. They are quite drought tolerant and only need a very occasional light watering other than in the cup. For orchids, just follow the instructions on the tag. Quite popular now are the “ice cube” orchids where you “water” them by placing 3 ice cubes in the pot one time a week. Admittedly, it’s a bit of a gimmick, but it works. Other types of orchids you water once a week with room temperature water, so it’s important to read the tag. Gerbera daisies should be watered when the top of the soil dries out but before the leaves start to wilt.
There you have it. Three beautiful and undemanding plants that will be sure to brighten your day. And now, if you will excuse me, I’m going to get another cup of coffee and watch the snow move in.
The Gardening Grannies are a group of avid and Master Gardeners who live, love and garden on the Delmarva Peninsula. You can reach us at gardeninggrannies@47ABC.com.B
