Orchids are fascinating flora that come in a wide variety of species and forms . One of the most interesting aspects of orchids is their unique growth wont . Many people erroneously believe that orchid are sponge because they spring up on other plant , but in realism , the absolute majority of orchids are actually epiphytes .
Epiphytes are plants that grow on other plants , but they are not parasite . Unlike parasites , which get nutrient from their host plants and harm them in the process , epiphytes simply use other plants as a bread and butter structure . They do not rely on their host plants for nutrients , as they have adapt to cumulate nutrients from the airwave , rain , and surrounding surround .
Approximately 70 percent of all orchid are epiphytes , which means they course grow on the surfaces of trees , rock , or even gentleman - made structures like fences or buildings . This unique increment wont allow for orchids to take vantage of the in high spirits light floor and good air circulation notice in elevated positions .
One of the reason why orchid have evolved to be epiphytes is because they often grow in tropical rainforest where the woods floor is already crowded with other flora . By develop on trees or rocks , orchids are able to access more sun and avoid contention for blank and resources on the ground .
As an avid gardener myself , I have had the pleasance of growing several orchids in my own collection . One of my pet orchid is the Phalaenopsis , also known as the moth orchidaceous plant . This particular mintage is native to Southeast Asia and is commonly encounter grow on Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree offshoot . When I first brought home a Phalaenopsis orchidaceous plant , I was fascinated by its power to flourish without soil .
To create a suitable growing environment for my orchidaceous plant , I attached it to a piece of cork barque using some sportfishing line . I then placed the orchidaceous plant in a well - lit area with indirect sunlight and provided it with even misting to mime the humid conditions it would typically live in its natural habitat . Over clock time , the orchid adapted to its newfangled surroundings and began to produce beautiful efflorescence .
Epiphytic orchid have some unique adaptations that allow them to thrive in their select habitat . One of these adaptations is the presence of aeriform roots , which are roots that grow above the basis . These ascendant serve multiple purposes , including absorb moisture from the air and providing additional reenforcement for the industrial plant .
Another interesting adaptation is the power of orchid to hive away water in specialised structure called pseudobulbs . These swollen shank allow the orchid to survive during periods of drought , as they can store big amounts of H2O to nurture the plant until pelting becomes available again .
orchidaceous plant are not parasites but rather air plant . They have evolve to grow on other plants as a means of hold good access to light and air circulation . This unequaled outgrowth drug abuse has give up orchids to thrive in various environs , from tropical rainforest to the interiors of our homes . As a nurseryman , I find the increment habits and version of orchid to be truly fascinating , and they have become a beloved addition to my own appeal .
Caroline Bates
