One place to avoid placing orchids or leaves could burn in 'hours'
Orchids have pretty fragile leaves - and there's one place you should never leave them.
Experts have issued an urgent warning to UK gardeners about a common lighting mistake that could be damaging your orchids.
MissOrchidGirl, a popular YouTube content creator, cautions against placing orchids in direct sunlight, as their fragile leaves can burn in just a few hours.
"Orchids have pretty fragile leaves," she explained.
"Place them in bright shade until you figure out how much direct sun your orchid needs—if any."
According to her, not all orchids can tolerate sunlight, and some species are more prone to sun damage than others.
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The content creator suggested that beginners place their orchids in a bright but shaded area until they learn how much direct sunlight their specific orchid can tolerate
In addition to lighting, watering practices are crucial for orchid survival.
Water that collects in the plant’s crown or between leaves can lead to crown rot, a condition that destroys the orchid's tissue and can be fatal if left untreated.
MissOrchidGirl stressed that orchid care novices may struggle with addressing crown rot, which is a common cause of death for these plants.
Aside from warnings about sun and water, she has also taken to debunking some widely spread myths and "hacks" that claim to improve orchid growth.
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One such hack is the use of a garlic-based tonic, which has been touted by some as an organic fertiliser and root stimulant.
While other YouTube channels, like Happiness Garden, have promoted the use of garlic solutions, MissOrchidGirl firmly refuted these claims.
"These hacks have no scientific backing," she said, advising her followers to stick to well-researched care methods.
Instead, she recommends using a fertiliser with a balanced nutrient profile, like a 20-20-20 formula, to promote healthy growth.
With careful attention to lighting and watering, along with the right fertiliser, orchid enthusiasts can keep these stunning plants thriving in their homes.
