In addition to having plants in pots, growing orchids under glass enables you to grow them mounted on bark or attached to tree branches. The latter can make attractive and unusual additions in the greenhouse, and can be set up at one end to create a pleasing, eye-catching and permanent display. Some orchids can be grown in open slatted baskets, and by using these different methods every available space can be utilized. It is surprising how many orchids you can fit comfortably into a small greenhouse. However, if you are considering purchasing a new greenhouse for your orchids, it is always best to obtain one that is larger than you think you will need.

Phalaenopsis, which in the Northern Hemisphere are grown in outdoors every year, can Ao extremely well outdoors in tropical areas. The plants should always be established so that their fleshy leaves hang down, as those of the species do in their natural habitats. This ensures that water does not lodge in the centre of the plant but becomes self-draining. This is less easy to do with some of the modern hybrids, whose leaves have lost the elongated shape of the species and have become rounder and more rigidly upright. Look for plants of the right shape for this purpose.

In parts of the world where yearround sunshine is guaranteed, the vandaceous orchids come into their own. The brilliant colours of the modern hybrids are the results of those of us residing in cooler climates. In the tropics, they grow with total ease, continuing to produce their superb blooms throughout the year.

The only danger here is that when the sun comes out again after the rain, the plants inside the “tent” may experience a sudden rise in temperature if the polythene is not removed quickly.

The trees will restrict the available light, and the glass roof will be covered by debris from the trees, which will encourage the growth of algae. An open site will also prevent insects from the trees being blown in through the open ventilators, which is how many pests enter the greenhouse in summer. There are many differing designs of greenhouses available from various manufacturers.

During the hottest months of the year, watering can be more beneficial if it is done towards evening, when the sun has left the plants and the temperature is cooling down.

In this way, the compost (growing medium) will remain moist for longer and keep the roots cool. Check daily to see if watering is needed, and give plenty each time to ensure a thorough wetting.

Climbers, such as stephanotis or hoya, tend to drop blooms on to the orchids below, causing rots if they are not picked up quickly, as well as dripping their sugary nectar, which causes moulds, on to your orchids below. As the climbers grow, they will restrict more and more light from the orchids and will outpace every other plant in the greenhouse, in addition to harbouring pests such as scale insects. Leave room for an inside water butt (deep sink) in which to dunk plants, and install a mains water tap and hose to make watering and damping down easier.