Growing Orchids is easier than you think!

Ever wondered how to make your garden extra beautiful with Orchids, but don’t know where to start or how to maintain them?

Sean Granger, the General Manager of Granny Mouse Country House & Spa along with his gardening team suggests that they are not as difficult to grow as some may think.

“There are many different types of orchids with various colours, species and hybrids, but the popular ones we have come to love, are the ones we buy from the nursery which are easy to grow and maintain. Currently we use Phalaenopsis Orchids in our gardens,” he says.

One of the most popular Orchids are the Phalaenopsis Orchids which are also known as Moth Orchids. These Orchids can be grown in pots or baskets with a course potting mix which can be bought from your nearest nursery. Planting them in baskets or pots is ideal for allowing the plants to get enough air and free drainage of water.

If one takes a walk around Granny Mouse, there are a number of hanging baskets located around the property with some boasting beautiful Orchids which have become part of the garden’s family.

Granger says that in order to maintain your Orchids there are a few tips he has learnt from the gardening team when he joins them in taking care of the flowers. “First, ensure there is enough shade. Orchids are sensitive to too much light, so about 60% shade coverage should do the trick. Most Orchids seem to grow beautifully in diffused bright light, but also ensure that there is not too much shade. Second, keep the Orchids moist but not wet, applying more water in hotter conditions and less when it is cold and lastly apply an Orchid specified fertilizer and with this you should have flowering beauties in no time,” he adds.

To view our gardens, why not book a lunch, spa treatment or stay over at Granny Mouse Country House & Spa. To book contact 033 234 4071 or reservations@grannymouse.co.za