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Welcome to the home page of the Oklahoma Orchid Society and the wonderful world of Orchids. We are entering a new era and a new millennium with changes unimagined.
The OOS is 50 years old this 2000 Century and with the vitality of our ever growing membership, is ready for the challenges ahead. In the last fifty years many changes in the way we grow and care for our orchids have taken place along with huge strides in plant propagation, reproduction and availability. Also in this period the faces of orchid growers has changed. Orchid growing and flowering is a wonderful relaxing hobby that anyone can enjoy in a magnificent green house or on the kitchen window sill. There are many books and publications available to help you with choosing and growing orchids, however the best and most fun way of learning about orchids is through your local Orchid Society. They can be found in every state (FL. has 61) as well as many countries and territories around the world.
Every one of us started out as a beginner!
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Are Orchids hard to grow?
No. Like any plant, an orchid needs water, food, light and air. If you can grow other garden and house plants,
you can grow orchids. All it takes is a little understanding and care.
Aren’t orchids expensive?
Once only a rich men’s hobby, orchids are now in reach of any income. Modern reproduction methods, widespread interests among amateurs and commercial growers and modern
transportation makes it possible for all to enjoy the beauty of orchids for a few
dollars.
Do you need a greenhouse?
Not necessarily. Some popular orchids can be grown in your home, in a window
or under lights. Some may be grown outdoors most of the year.
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What kind of soil is need?
Most orchids require none. Most are classified as epiphytes, or air plants, which grow on trees in nature. Saprophytes grow in mulch on the forest floor. Finally there are the terrestrials that grow in soil. Most of the epiphytes can be grown in tree bark, charcoal, pebbles, or on wooden/cork plaques.
Do orchids smell good?
Some are powerfully scented, while others rely on color and shape to attract insects or birds for pollination.
Aren’t all orchids the same?
From the thimble-sized Mystacidium caffrum to the 20 foot tall Renanthera storiel, orchids have a myriad of shapes, forms and growth habits. Some produce blossoms no larger than a mosquito, others are as large a sunflower. Some have one flower, others have dozens.
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How long do blooms last?
Blooms of hybrids of the Cattleya family may last from one to four weeks on the plant, those of the Phalaenopsis family commonly last from one to four months.
Where are orchids found?
Every country in the world, and every state in the United States, including Alaska. Oklahoma has many native orchids.
Can you transport orchids?
Orchids are portable. This is one of their greatest assets. Orchids are routinely mailed and shipped across country.
What about a draft?
Orchids require moving air. As in nature, they love to breathe.
When do orchids bloom?
Orchids can be found in bloom any month of the year, however the most popular bloom in the winter and spring.
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