Orchids are one of the most beautiful and exotic flowers that Mother Nature has created. Back in the days, growing orchids at home used to be a privilege of the rich. However, today's wide selection and availability of orchid species and orchid growing supplies allows anyone to enjoy them within their own homes. Growing orchid plants is not a rocket science, if you have a few tips under your belt. However, this rewarding hobby takes some love and patience.

The most important orchid growing tip is that you need to buy a good book on orchids. It will help you find answers to many questions such as: How do I pollinate an orchid? How to get an orchid to bloom? What kind of orchid care products do I need? There are very detailed and practical guides in the market right now.

There are four major factors for successful orchid growing:

1. The orchid growing medium. It is important to keep in mind that very few orchid species require soil to take root in. Vast majority of orchid plants grow in sand and pebbles, others - attached to a piece of bark or cork.

2. Lighting. An orchid that does not get enough light will not flower. On a contrary, if your orchid plant receives too much light, its leaves and flowers could easily be burned. The key is a balance of light and shade. With the introduction of fluorescent and LED "grow lights" this "balancing" task has been much simplified.

3. Temperature. Another great home orchid growing tip to follow is to make sure that you have the right temperature at all times. For those orchid plants that have low temperature needs, what you could do is to place them on the floor. And for those that may need warmer temperatures, you could use curtains to mimic the warm weather or you may use electric fans to help circulate warm or cool air that is needed. Never expose your orchid plant to freezing or too high temperatures.

4. Watering. Although the amount of water depends on many variables, one basic rule is: watering doesn't mean soaking! The orchids cannot tolerate being soaked in water, because it may cause fungus to grow and eventually kill your plant. For successful orchid growing you will need to make sure that the excess water always drains through the growing medium.

There are thousands of orchid species and hybrids. Each has its own set of qualities and needs. The above orchid growing tips have been provided as a general review only. Always consult the nursery professionals and your orchid growing book to ensure successful orchid growing experience.