Garden Tips

By Carl Harrison

Many types of Orchids exist in nature and, in response to their huge worldwide popularity, even more hybrid versions have been developed. In fact, the multitude of choices available can often throw people into a state of confusion. To make it easier, we have outlined seven of the most popular kinds.

Come from South American rainforest regions where they can be found growing high up in the trees

Have big, frilly blooms ranging in colour from pink and purple to yellow and white; images of these are often seen adorning chocolate boxes

They like humid surroundings, keep the temperature up and keep them away from other vegetation as they are very sensitive

2. Dendrobiums - Tree Flowers

Very popular as they have lots of lovely coloured, long-flowering blooms along the whole length of their stems

Many sub-varieties exist and are relatively easy to grow if you know the precise requirements of your individual type

These are good orchids to start off with as they generally like to be left to themselves if their environment is right

Originate from China and Japan

Are available in delicate green, white and pinkish shades

Look stunning as they have numerous large flowers and are tall in length

Slightly more difficult to maintain as they have quite precise temperature requirements which will need to be varied at night, but are definitely worth the extra effort

Found mainly in Indonesia

Very easy to grow in comparison to many of their relatives but are very susceptible to root-rot if over-watered

Flower on a yearly schedule

Do well in indoor environments as they love higher temperatures so take well to central heating and greenhouse heaters

5. Paphiopedilums - Lady's Slipper

Flowers have the characteristic pouch-like form that gives rise to their name

Exist in a range of striking colours and hold a few blooms per stem and, as an added bonus have gorgeously patterned leaves too

Largely found in the Far East

Are more resistant to root-rot resulting from over-hydration but more prone to scorching if placed in harsh sunlight

6. Oncidiums - Dancing Ladies

Have the striking appearance similar to a lady in a ball-gown that makes their nickname so suitable

Sprout many flowers so are very aesthetically pleasing

Are more able to handle intense light than other types of orchids so are great for greenhouses and sunnier weathers.

7. Vanda orchids

Available in a multitude of deep, striking hues and can grow quite tall

Blossom at least bi-annually so give really good aesthetic value

Originate from the warm, humid regions of the Himalayas and Australia

Have very high light requirements so do better in certain climates

Take yourself down to your local garden centre and have a look at the varieties that they have on offer and, if you're still stuck for choice, why not grow them all? One thing that's guaranteed is this: once you start you won't want to stop.

Find more Garden tools.

Carl Harrison is an orchid enthusiast. For more great tips and advice on different types of orchids, visit http://www.theorchidresource.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Carl_Harrison

By John Yazo

Organic gardening is becoming more popular and gardeners are looking for organic fertilizers along with other organic products for there gardening needs. Organic fertilizers are either animal, mineral or vegetable based. Animal based organic fertilizers are a by-product of the farming and meat industry. Products like manures, blood meal, bone meal and fish products are all part of this type of fertilizer.

Manures are the most common type of organic fertilizer that comes to mind to the home gardener. They can supply a lot of organic matter to the gardens soil to improve the soils structure. Most manures can be low in nutrients depending on there content, except for a few. Like chicken manure, it is high in nitrogen and should be used only after composted. When applied directly to plants it can burn the root system of young tender plants very easily. Other bird based fertilizers like bat or seabird guano can be purchased at most local garden centers. It comes in a pellet form and is also high in nitrogen.

Blood meal is a powdered blood that is a by-product from slaughtered animals. It has a high nitrogen content usually around fourteen percent and also has many micro-nutrients. It is excellent to be used on leafy nitrogen loving plants like lettuce.

Bone meal is commonly used as a source of phosphorous and calcium. It is the by-product of animal and fish bones. It comes in powder form and is commonly used on root crops.
Fish by-products are excellent fertilizers and they come in several different forms. There is fish emulsion that is in the liquid form and has a strong fish odor. It is an excellent complete fertilizer and will add needed trace elements to the soil for plants to benefit from. When diluted with water it is gentle and very effective in stimulating the growth of young seedlings.

Hydrolyzed fish powder is another by-product of fish and is high in nitrogen. It is commonly mixed with water and applied as a spray on plant foliage

Fish meal is a fish by-product that is high in nitrogen and phosphorus. It is applied to the soil and is usually a blend of fish, seaweed and kelp.

A environment friendly and healthy way of gardening. Organic Gardening is away of gardening in harmony with nature. Growing a healthy and productive crop in a way that is healthier for both you and the environment.

John Yazo
http://www.organicheirloomgardening.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Yazo