These varieties are easy to care for

With Phalaenopsis, getting started is not difficult at all

In order to open up the fascinating world of orchids to a wide audience, breeders have endowed the Phalaenopsis orchid with an unpretentious modesty. Raised in gigantic quantities, the exotic flowers flood the market today at an affordable price. The combination of uncomplicated care and low purchase price catapults the butterfly orchid into the best-selling indoor plant for beginners. However, some important framework conditions must be observed:

• A bright location with no direct sun at noon
• Warm room temperatures all year round
• Sparingly during the growth and flowering period to water or immerse in lime-free water every 14 days
• Apply liquid fertilizer every 4 weeks from April to October

Dendrobium - orchids with modest demands

The diverse genus of Dendrobium orchids is on par with Phalaenopsis. The yardstick is especially when crossing the two species at the beginner level. Dendrobium phalaenopsis inspires with small stems on which terminal flowers develop. Dendrobium nobile, whose stems are continuously covered with leaves and flowers, provides more variety on the windowsill. The grape orchid scores as an entry-level plant with these modest demands:

• Tolerates normal tap water when it is lukewarm
• Can be supplied with normal liquid fertilizer
• Dendrobium only needs to be repotted every 3 to 4 years

The most important difference to Phalaenopsis is a pronounced rest period after flowering. In order for a Dendrobium to produce its flower dress one more time, it remains in a cool location at 15-18 degrees Celsius during the day and 10-12 degrees at night. There it is only poured very sparingly and sprayed more often. The grape orchid receives fertilizer again only when a fresh shoot appears.