How to grow australian native orchids?

Growing Australian native orchids is incredibly rewarding but requires understanding their specific needs! I specialize in these beauties:

They're diverse - terrestrials, epiphytes, and lithophytes with different requirements. Research your specific type! Most need excellent drainage, good air movement, and protection from harsh afternoon sun.

Water quality matters - many are sensitive to salts. Use rainwater or reverse osmosis if your tap water is hard. Fertilize weakly with orchid-specific food during growth periods.

Many have dormancy requirements - reduce watering when growth slows. Terrestrials like Pterostylis need dry summer dormancy. Epiphytes like Dendrobiums need winter rest with reduced water and cooler temperatures.

Join the Australian Native Orchid Society - local knowledge is invaluable! Be patient - many grow slowly but live for decades.

G'day! I'm passionate about growing our amazing native orchids. Here's my practical approach:

I started with the easier ones: Dockrillia (formerly Dendrobium) linguiformis and Dendrobium kingianum are great beginners. I grow most in squat terracotta pots with very coarse mix - native pine bark, gravel, and charcoal.

The key is mimicking their natural habitat: most grow in eastern forests with good light but protection from midday sun. I use 50% shade cloth. Watering is the trickiest part - thorough watering then drying appropriately for the species.

Seasonal changes are crucial! Many need distinct wet summers and drier winters. Don't keep them uniformly moist year-round. Also, many are cool-growing - avoid hot greenhouse conditions.

The flowers might be smaller than tropical orchids, but their forms and fragrances are incredible! Well worth the learning curve.