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Tips on Caring for Indoor Bonsai Trees

November 03, 2010 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Japanese

There are various species suitable to use for indoor bonsai trees. Some of these include Ficus, Serissa, Boxwood, and Gardenia. If you want to grow your own miniature tree indoors, you will need to know a few things beforehand. This article will give you a few tips on growing indoor bonsai trees.

Light
Indoor trees usually require between four and six hours of light each day. It’s best to put them near a window that faces south. This will allow them to receive morning sun and shade in the afternoon. If a southern facing window isn’t an option, you can put them on a window fill that faces west or east.

Windows facing in either of these three directions are best. However, if you only have a window that faces north, you can put your tree there. You will need to use a grow light in this situation though.

Humidity
Indoor bonsai trees will suffer if you don’t provide them with enough humidity. The heating system in your home will reduce the amount of humidity available. You should put your tree in a small tray filled with water and gravel. There will be plenty of moisture available as the water evaporates. You can also mist the leaves with water a little bit.

Water
These trees usually don’t need to be watered everyday. Water requirements depend on the type of pot you’re using, the specific species you’re growing, and the type of soil in the pot. However, since they trees are in small pots, they will probably dry out very quickly. You should monitor this frequently by sticking your finger in the soil to see how moist it is. If the tree is receiving a lot of sun, it will require more water.

These are a few tips on caring for indoor bonsai trees. There are many more things that you need to learn about growing bonsai trees. So, click here now to learn everything you need to know about bonsai tree care.

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This article is provided by Amazines.com – The ULTIMATE Article Database

Tips for Wiring Bonsai Trees

October 05, 2010 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Japanese

If you want to shape your bonsai tree, then you will have to wire it at some point in its life. There are many things you need to know about wiring bonsai trees. This article will give you a few tips to get you started.

Type
There are two types of wire used on bonsais, namely copper and aluminum. If you’re a beginner, it will probably be easier for you to use aluminum wire. It can also be used again after being set into position. The advantage of copper wire is that it has more holding power, but you can’t reuse it after setting it into position.

Thickness
You also need to think about thickness when wiring bonsai trees. Copper wire is measured in gauge or mm, while aluminum is measured in mm. It’s best to have wire available of various thicknesses if you want to fully wire the tree. (more…)

How to Take Care of Dendrobium Orchids

September 12, 2010 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Container, Gardens - Flower

Dendrobium orchids are mostly found in tropical areas, but some have adapted to more cooler climates. Some species grow on trees, while a few can be found growing on rocks. Some of these plants shed their leaves in the fall or water, while others are evergreen. If you’re interested in growing one, there are a few things you need to know. This article will give you a few tips on how to take care of dendrobium orchids.

Air
It’s important to provide good air movement. This will help prevent water from accumulating and leading to the formation of mold. You can simply open up a window in the room to provide adequate air movement. A small fan can also be used, but it shouldn’t be pointed directly at your plant.

Temperature
As mentioned earlier, dendrobium orchids are usually found in tropical areas. It’s best that you provide a temperature range between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. At night, a range between 65 and 75 is good. You can expose the plant to extremely cold or hot temperatures for a short time without causing major damage. (more…)

Three Quick Tips for Pruning Bonsai Trees

September 06, 2010 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Japanese

Pruning bonsai trees is important if you want them to stay healthy and looking their best. If you’re new to the process, there are a few things you need to know. This article will give you a few tips to get you started.

Timing
You should make sure that you prune your bonsai at least once every year. Most gardeners do this during the growing season. By pruning away new growth, you will help maintain the shape of your tree. If you’re looking to get rid of old season’s growth, you should do so in the fall.

Pruning bonsai trees can also be done during the winter if you want. If you have a deciduous tree, it will be a little easier for you to see what needs to be cut. However, you shouldn’t prune if the temperature outside is below freezing. The wood will likely shatter when you cut it. (more…)

Everything You Need to Know About Orchid Fertilizer

August 16, 2010 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Container, Gardens - Flower

Orchid fertilizer is essential for keeping your plant thriving. It delivers a blend of nutrients that the plant converts into energy for development and growth. If you’re unfamiliar with the basics of using fertilizer, this article will tell you everything you need to know.

Macronutrients
Every good fertilizer contains three important macronutrients. They include nitrogen, phosphorous, and potassium. This is commonly abbreviated NPK. Nitrogen mainly helps the plant’s stem and leaves grow. While growth will likely be restricted if the plant doesn’t get enough nitrogen, too much can reduce flowering.

Phosphorous is essential for production of protein, which is necessary for the production of flowers. If the orchid doesn’t receive enough, growth may slow dramatically. It can also cause the plant to lose flowers early. The element potassium plays a role in loss and absorption of water. It also helps synthesize proteins. (more…)

A Look at Essential Bonsai Supplies

August 07, 2010 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Japanese

Taking care of a bonsai is a rewarding hobby. In addition to the tree, you will also need a few other bonsai supplies. This article will discuss some of the most important things you’ll need besides your tree.

Pot
The pot is one of the most important things you need for your new tree. It should be wide enough to span the width of your tree’s branches. It should also provide drainage via a large hole in the bottom of the pot. If you plan on keep your bonsai outside, you should also make sure the pot can’t be frozen.

Wire
You will need to shape your tree if you want it to look good. Therefore, you’ll need to pick up some wire when picking up bonsai supplies. This will help you keep the bent branches in place. This wire normally comes in either aluminum or copper. Aluminum is much easier for beginners to use. However, copper is the stronger metal, so you’ll need thinner wire to keep stronger branches in place. While you’re getting wire, don’t forget to get a pair of fine wire cutters. (more…)

How to Care For Cymbidium Orchids

July 17, 2010 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Container, Gardens - Flower

Cymbidium orchids are commonly used for corsages or cut flowers because of their large flowers. One spike may have up to 30 flowers, each one measuring between four and six inches. These flowers can look good for more than two months after being cut. If you’re looking to grow one of these orchids, there are a few things you need to know beforehand. This article will teach you how to care for cymbidium orchids.

Light
These orchids usually grow best when kept outdoors for most of the year. You should give them as much light as possible. However, never expose them to intense direct sunlight as that can burn the leaves. When given the right amount of light, the plant’s leaves will be light green and firm. (more…)

How to Care For Jewel Orchids

July 08, 2010 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Container, Gardens - Flower

Jewel orchids have very elegant leaves. Therefore, they are valued less for their flowers than for their foliage. If you want to grow one of these plants, there are a few things you should know beforehand. This article will give you a few tips on how to care for a jewel orchid.

Light
In the wild, these plants grow in places with low light. Therefore, it’s best to provide low or medium light when growing one yourself. Avoid strong sunshine or bright light at all cost. You can simply use incandescent or fluorescent lights to provide the right amount of light.

Humidity
Jewel orchids require high humidity. If you’re growing one in your home, then you need to pay special attention. This is because your air conditioner or heater will reduce the humidity in the home. (more…)

Six Tips For Growing Cattleya Orchids

June 26, 2010 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Container, Gardens - Flower

Cattleya orchids are one of the most common species grown. They are often referred to as corsage orchids thanks to their big flowers. The flowers can measure up to eight inches and are also fragrant. If you want to grow one of your own, there are a few things you should know beforehand. This article will give you a few tips for growing cattleya orchids.

Humidity
Maintaining proper humidity levels is extremely important when caring for one of these plants. The relative humidity in your home should fall between 50 and 80 percent. This can easily be done by using a humidity tray. Simply sit the orchid atop a tray of gravel filled with a little water. (more…)

Five Secrets About Caring For Vanda Orchids

June 14, 2010 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Container, Gardens - Flower

Vanda orchids originate in eastern Asia and northern Australia. This genera in the orchid family requires expert care, so beginners shouldn’t start out trying to grow one. This article will give you a few tips for growing these plants properly.

Light
Vandas thrive with plenty of sunlight. You should give them at least half a day of light. It’s best that you put them in your brightest window. Make sure that you don’t forget to relocate them as the seasons change. This will allow them to receive as much light as they need. If you give them sufficient light, they will probably bloom two or three times each year. (more…)

Quick Tips for Choosing Bonsai Pots

May 29, 2010 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Japanese

Choosing the correct type of pot to house your bonsai is critical. There are various things you need to consider when choosing bonsai pots. Two of the most important considerations are size and drainage. This article will discuss some things you need to consider when choosing a pot for your bonsai.

Size
Size should be one of the first things you think about when getting a pot. You will need to know how wide your tree’s branches are before you go shopping. The pot you choose should be just as wide as the branches. It should also be large enough to give the roots space to grow for up to two years.

Drainage
Drainage is also important when choosing bonsai pots. Proper drainage is essential for the health of your tree. Therefore, you should only look at designs that have at least one large drainage hole in the bottom of the pot. Some designs have multiple holes to provide extra drainage. While you’re getting the pot, make sure you get something to cover the holes. This is necessary so that air can get in, water can get out, and the soil can stay right where it’s at.

Color
One of the lesser important considerations is color. You want your tree to look good on display. So, you’ll want to choose a pot that complements the look of your tree. You should be aware that some species have foliage that change color in different seasons. So, make sure you take this into account with your specific type of tree.

These are a few tips for choosing bonsai pots. While you’re thinking about pots, you should know that there are many things you’ll need to learn about proper bonsai tree care. So, click here now to learn everything you need to know about growing bonsai trees.

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This article is provided by Amazines.com – The ULTIMATE Article Database

Four Quick Tips For Growing Young Orchids

May 15, 2010 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Container, Gardens - Flower

Young orchids need better care than more mature plants. If this is your first time growing one, then there are a few things you should know beforehand. This article will give you a few tips to help you grow one properly.

Light
More mature plants are in the flowering stage. Therefore, they require a higher level of light intensity than their younger counterparts. Immature orchids normally have light green leaves. If you notice the leaves are dark green instead, you should provide the plant with more lighting.

Scorching
As you just learned, providing the right amount of lighting is crucial to proper care. However, you need to make sure that there are no drops of water on the leaves. This will concentrate sunlight and result in the leaves becoming scorched. Young orchids are usually too delicate to survive this type of injury. This is less serious with older plants, as they can usually recover from this type of injury. (more…)

Five Popular Orchid Species

April 19, 2010 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Container, Gardens - Flower

There are virtually thousands of orchid species found throughout the world. You will likely want to choose a plant that produces beautiful flowers. However, you will also need to consider the type of environment that you can provide. This article will discuss some of the most popular orchid species.

Dendrobium
This is one of the most popular varieties. These plants produces either twins or triplets of three inch flowers. The flowers come in colors of red, white, orange, and purple. Dendrobium orchids can go relatively tall, so you need to make sure you provide stability with a stake. During the summer months, you need to give them full light, humidity, and provide warm temperatures. They like less humidity and heat during the winter. (more…)

Quick Tips For Repotting Orchids

February 19, 2010 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Container, Gardens - Flower

Repotting orchids should be done at least every two years. If you fail to do so, your plant may die or at least produce few flowers. You can easily tell when it’s time to do so. If your growing medium has broken down or if new growths extend over the edge of the pot, it’s time for you to repot the plant. Although it can seem difficult your first time around, it’s not such a hard task. This article will give you a few tips to help you.

Timing
One of the first things you need to consider is when to repot. If you wait longer than two years, then the potting medium will break down. This will prevent air circulation from reaching the roots. Also, the medium will start retaining too much moisture, which will increase the risk of root rot. You should repot the plant in early summer before new growth starts to appear. (more…)

Four Quick Tips For Buying Orchids

January 22, 2010 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Container, Gardens - Flower

It is especially important for beginning gardeners to know what to look for when buying orchids. You have to examine the plant closely to make sure it’s in good health before you take it home. There are a few things you need to pay special attention to. This article will give you a few tips to make sure you pick the best plant.

Age
One of the first things you need to ask about is the age of the plant. Beginners should try to choose a plant that is relatively mature. Younger plants are much less durable than their older counterparts. Therefore, they will be much less forgiving of any mistakes that you make when caring for them. (more…)

Three Common Orchid Diseases

December 16, 2009 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Container, Gardens - Flower

There are many common orchid diseases that can cause serious harm to your beautiful plant. You should check your orchids once a week so that you will notice any problems early. Let’s take a look at some of the most common orchid diseases.

Black Rot
One of the first common orchid diseases is black rot. It is caused by fungi that can kill the plant rapidly. Black rot can cause any part of the plant to become watery and black. If the disease is only located on the leaf, you can remove it and treat the plant with fungicide. You should repeat this process until the disease stops spreading.

Petal Blight
One of the next common orchid diseases is petal blight. This condition is also caused by a fungus which will cause the plant’s flowers to develop spots. Petal blight occurs when water is allowed to collect on the surface of the flower. This disease is treated with fungicide, decreased humidity, and increased air movement. You should also remove the affected flowers so they don’t have a chance to spread the fungus. (more…)

Tips For Growing Orchids Indoors

November 18, 2009 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Container, Gardens - Flower

Many people prefer growing orchids indoors instead of outside. If you want to grow your plants inside your home, there are a few things you should know. This article will give you a few tips on growing orchids indoors.

Lighting
When growing orchids indoors, it is important to have proper lighting. If the plant does not get enough light, the foliage will turn dark green. The room should have plenty of bright light, but the plant should not be exposed to direct sun because the leaves will scorch. If this isn’t possible for your situation, you can buy fluorescent lights at a garden supply store to achieve proper lighting.

Temperature
The temperature in your home should never go below 60 degrees Fahrenheit while you are growing orchids indoors. Most species need a temperature between 70 and 85 during the day and between 60 and 65 at night. If you keep your orchids on a window sill, you need to move them away at night because of the cold will affect the plant through the glass. (more…)

Phalaenopsis Orchids – How to Care For Moth Orchids

October 17, 2009 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Container, Gardens - Flower, How To Grow...

Phalaenopsis orchids have flowers shaped like a moth or butterfly. This is the reason they are commonly referred to as moth orchids. Sometimes, they can bloom for longer than three months. If you’re looking to try your hand at raising one of these plants, you will be happy to know it’s one of the easiest orchids to care for.

Light
These plants need bright, indirect sunlight. It’s important that you don’t expose the leaves to strong direct sunlight. The leaves should have a bright green color. If they are dark green, then you need to give the plant more light. Yellowish-green leaves is an indicator that the plant is receiving too much light.

Temperature
Moth orchids are sensitive to temperature fluctuations, but do better in higher rather than lower temperatures. It’s best to keep the temperature between 75 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. You shouldn’t expose the orchid to temperatures lower than 60 degrees or higher than 90 degrees. While the plant is blooming, you should keep the temperature above 70 degrees at all times. (more…)

Three Types of Orchid Pots

September 21, 2009 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Container, Gardens - Flower

There are three common types of orchid pots. They include plastic, terracotta, and basket. The best type of pot for you depends on the potting mix, type of orchid, and location that you’re growing the plant. You may also want to consider how often you will need to repot the orchid. Let’s take a look at the three main types of orchid pots.

Plastic
One of the most common types of orchid pots is the plastic variety. Plastic pots have the advantage of being lightweight. Clear plastic is popular as it allows you to keep an eye on the roots to make sure pests and diseases aren’t damaging them. Plastic orchid pots also retain water longer than clay pots.

It’s usually best to use these pots indoors since the wind can easily blow them over if they’re used outside. Also if you use plastic orchid pots outside, they will eventually be damaged by UV light. If you do want a plastic design for use outside, you should at least make sure it has a light color. Therefore, it won’t heat up as much in the sun. (more…)

Five Tips For Growing Miltonia Orchids

August 14, 2009 By: Darrin Swain Category: Gardens - Container, Gardens - Flower

Miltonia orchids are also referred to as pansy orchids because their open flowers closely resemble pansies. They are very fragrant, but a little more difficult to grow than other species of orchids. This article will give you a few tips for growing miltonia orchids.

Temperature
Miltonia orchids require the temperature to be intermediate to warm. During the day, the ideal temperature is somewhere between 70 and 85 degrees. At night, the temperature should be 55 to 65.

Humidity
You should always make sure your miltonia orchids get plenty of moist air. The humidity should be between 55 and 65 percent. If the temperature and lighting around the miltonia orchids rises, you also need to increase the humidity. This will reduce the stress on the plants. (more…)