It is interesting to note that one of the largest flowering plant families with members growing just about everywhere in the world has a reputation for being one of the most difficult plants to grow. With thousands to choose from, some orchids will of course be challenging and difficult to grow. But most of the orchids you’ll find at your local nursery or florist will be no more demanding than most other houseplants.

The keys to growing orchids successfully?

Find an orchid whose needs you can match with ease. Know what its temperature, light and water requirements are before you bring it home. Orchids come from steamy, humid jungles and cool, dry mountains. Find the orchid that suits you.

Don’t over water. This is one of the leading killers of orchids in the home. While some orchids like phalaenopsis and pahiopedilums like to be kept evenly moist, many of the orchids in cultivation, like cattleyas and dendrobiums, were originally epiphytes living high up in tree branches. They are accustomed to periods without water.

Orchid light requirements can vary from low to high so discuss with your orchid seller the light quality of the place where you intend to grow your orchid. Too little light is as lethal to an orchid as too much light. Eastern and southern exposures are typically best for most orchids. Light from a western exposure can be too intense in the afternoon and northern exposures do not provide enough light for some species.

Keep an eye on your plant. Observation is probably your most useful tool. With regular observation you can detect a problem before it becomes a threat.

For a look at the wide range of species available, don't miss the Conservatory's upcoming "Orchids of the Americas" display this April and May. We'll be filling the galleries with a stunning array of orchids from the highlands of Ecuador to the lowlands of Brazil. Check our website soon for more information at http://www.conservatoryofflowers.org.

Lisa Van Cleef is the Curator of Education at the Conservatory of Flowers.