Read on below for more information on these hardy orchids that can be grown outside in the garden.
Then the bulbs were often wild collected and directions on how to make them grow were non-existent, even if they were still alive when you bought them. Today, if you buy from a reputable source, pleiones can give many years of pleasure, if you follow a few rules in their cultivation.
Most species like Pleione formosana and Pleione grandiflora need a distinct dormant period. They like cool conditions and they hate summer heat and winter wet. Therefore few will be successful growing in the open ground. They are best in pots, and perfect for alpine house conditions. Pot up the dormant bulbs in late winter in orchid mix which is nice and open and free draining. The bulbs should be nestling on the growing medium surface. Place in a cool, light position and flowers follow in spring. After the flowers fade the leaves emerge, this is the growing period so water and feed regularly with a general liquid fertiliser. A lightly shaded position outdoors is ideal through the summer. Gradually withhold water in late summer and as leaves die back stop watering, move the plants indoors and keep cool. Some take the bulbs out of the pots, wrap in paper and keep in the salad compartment of the refrigerator. A cold garage should suffice. Start again the following season and all should be well.
The other ?easy? hardy orchid that is often available alongside summer flowering bulbs is Bletilla striata, sometimes referred to as Bletia hyacinthana. This is easier, and you may well succeed in a sheltered spot outdoors with this orchid. It grows from a corm-like rhizome with pleated leaves, the flowerbuds emerging from among the leaves in summer. It likes good drainage and dappled sunlight. Alongside a wall, in the shade of a tree or shrub is ideal as long as the soil is not too dry. It grows well in a pot or container brought under the eaves of the house in winter to afford some protection. When you buy this one as a dormant ?bulb? I recommend you start it in a pot of lime free growing medium with added loam and grit. Get it well established and then plant it out, if growing in the open ground.
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