You may be surprised to know that orchids do not even grow in soil.

Epiphytes are orchids that cling to trees, supporting themselves on the bark. They receive all the water they need when rain water runs or drips down the tree. They can obtain what it needs from the air.

Lithophytes are a type of orchid that grows on rocks. Saprophytes grow in leaf litter, and terrestrials are found growing in sand.

Orchids, like other plants, prefer certain conditions when growing in the wild. This is the information you need to know in order to grow them in your greenhouse. Being aware and armed with information of what makes them thrive, you can provide a good environment for them.

For orchids, it's not very difficult at all to create a natural setting for them to grow in. Almost anyone can throw together some lava rocks or fir bark chips. Regular light watering is sufficient for most orchids. Allow enough time between watering for them to dry. Drainage should not be a problem with the loosely packed growing medium.

Your orchids should be re-potted every two or three years. Not only will they begin to outgrow their pots, but the material that they grow in will usually begin to break down as well. This is caused, mainly, by insect activity and repeated watering. If your plant's roots are beginning to grow over the side of the pot, it's time to replant.

The good news is that re-potting these types of plants is much easier than those grown in soil. Do remember to exercise caution when dealing with plants. This step should only be done when the plant is at its most dormant stage. An example would be early Spring, before the most growth takes place.

Be cautious when you take the plant from its pot and remove any remaining material from its roots. To give the plant the best chance of surviving in it's new pot, clip off any damaged or unhealthy looking roots.

Many times this move will be made to a larger pot. Refill the pot with the proper growing media, whether it's bark, lava rocks or something else. There is also a special orchid sphagnum moss that works quite well for some types. Clear a place to insert your plant and refill up to the crown (rhizome).

Stake the plant for extra support, if need be. Only use this method temporarily, until the plant is able to grow freely without falling over.

Keep in mind that the orchid absorbs the majority of the nutrients from the surrounding air and not the growing medium. Make sure you provide proper airflow.

The amount of air available to the roots is dependent on the chip size. Make sure you have the right potting material for your specific plant. When the plant begins to grow new leaves, you can fertilize with a small amount of 18-18-18.

About the Author:
Moses Wright is an orchid enthusiast. He started a site to help fellow orchid lovers to learn more about orchid gardening tips