The best position for orchids outdoors is definitely going to vary from one person to the next. There are so many different opinions on this subject, it can be really hard to say for sure which is best. Most people think that somewhere between a bright sunny spot and full shade is a great place to start planting orchids. Others will prefer a shady spot or a place under a tree. It really depends on your plant and your situation, of course.
One of the things that is most important is where you are going to be placing your orchids outdoors. You must remember that orchids bloom in cycles, just like any other plant. They go through a flowering period then a rest period, then have a re-growth period then bloom again.
When you are planting orchids, it is best to plan ahead by knowing where the plant is likely to go during each of those periods. That will help you make sure that the potting medium you use is not too heavy for the orchids. Also, make sure that the orchid plants will not be overgrown because that is going to take away from the beauty of the flowers.
When orchids are growing outdoors, it is best that they have their potting medium sitting on a high table or shelf. This will provide them with enough room to grow properly. Some folks like to have their orchids in a window box, but that might not be the best place for long term orchids. Make sure that the potting medium is dry when you place the orchid indoors for the winter. Orchids will actually be more difficult to tend during this time and you will want to try your best to transplant them later in the year.
The best position for orchids outdoors is still on a sunny, warm plant. If you are able to find an area that has partial shade, this is even better. You will still need to keep the orchid in a fairly enclosed space to keep it warm, but you will be able to give the orchid proper drainage to allow it to naturally grow properly. During the summertime, you can move the orchid outside if it needs to get some sun.
There are some things to remember about orchids growing outdoors that will make your life a bit easier. Most of these tips will apply to indoor orchids as well. If you are growing orchids indoors, you can use regular watering. But, you will need to monitor the water that you give the orchid because orchids tend to dry out very quickly.
You should also consider the fact that orchids, like most other plants, will grow better if you give them a small amount of sunlight. You should place the orchid in the south or southeast part of the garden. This is where the majority of the sun is available. When the orchid starts to show signs of blooming, you will be able to move it to the west or northwest areas of your garden.
One last tip for orchids outdoors – you should place your orchids out of direct sun. This might mean that you will have to move them to a shaded area or give them partial shade for a couple of weeks. But, you will want to protect your orchids from too much wind. Too much wind can dry out your orchids and they won’t bloom as well. You can use a plant mister, mulch, or any type of covering to help keep the orchid protected from the elements.