Growing Orchids: Tips for the San Francisco and Bay Area Climate, join Us on January 8, 2025
Growing Orchids: Tips for the San Francisco and Bay Area Climate
Orchids are some of the most beautiful and diverse plants in the world, with over 25,000 species and countless hybrids. While they may seem like an exotic plant, orchids can thrive in a variety of environments, including the unique climate of the San Francisco Bay Area. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or a beginner, learning the best practices for growing orchids in this specific climate can make all the difference in cultivating healthy, vibrant plants.
About this Event
If you’re interested in expanding your knowledge of orchids and how to grow them successfully in the Bay Area, we invite you to join a special gardening event. This informative session, led by Master Gardener Lisa Erdos, will provide essential tips for growing orchids in San Francisco’s cool and temperate climate. Lisa will walk you through the ins and outs of orchid care, from choosing the right type for your space to understanding how to address common challenges like pests, diseases, and re-blooming.
The event will cover a variety of orchid types, from the cool-loving Masdevallia to the tropical Phalaenopsis, a favorite for indoor environments. Whether you’re looking to expand your collection or need help with your existing orchids, this session will offer practical advice for gardeners of all experience levels.
Growing Orchids – Tips for the San Francisco and Bay Area Climate
The Bay Area climate, with its mild, wet winters and dry summers, offers a unique set of challenges and advantages when it comes to growing orchids. Understanding the specific needs of different types of orchids is crucial, especially when it comes to temperature, humidity, and light. Fortunately, many popular orchid varieties are well-suited to this environment.
1. Choosing the Right Orchid for Your Climate
San Francisco’s climate is often described as temperate, with cool, foggy summers and mild winters. Orchids that thrive in this type of environment generally fall into the cool-growing or temperate zone categories. Some of the best varieties for the Bay Area include Masdevallia and Cymbidiums.
- Masdevallia orchids are known for their ability to thrive in cooler temperatures, making them perfect for San Francisco’s coastal weather. These orchids prefer a temperature range of 55-75°F, which is ideal for the Bay Area’s coastal regions. Their colorful, intricate flowers and ability to tolerate moderate humidity make them a great choice for both indoor and outdoor growing.
- Cymbidiums are another excellent option for San Francisco’s climate. These orchids are known for their large, beautiful blooms and ability to withstand cooler temperatures. Cymbidiums thrive outdoors in the Bay Area, especially during the cooler months, and they can bloom year after year with proper care.
For those who prefer growing orchids indoors, Phalaenopsis orchids (also known as the “moth orchid”) are a popular choice. These tropical orchids are incredibly versatile and can thrive in the relatively stable indoor temperatures of homes and offices. They require more warmth and humidity than the cool-growing varieties, making them ideal for indoor cultivation in San Francisco’s climate.
2. Re-potting, Watering, and Feeding
One of the most important aspects of growing orchids is proper care when it comes to watering, feeding, and re-potting. Orchids need a good balance of moisture and nutrients to grow well, but overwatering or poor soil can cause them to suffer.
- Watering: Orchids generally prefer to dry out a bit between waterings. Make sure the potting medium is well-drained, and never let water sit in the pot’s saucer. In San Francisco’s relatively mild climate, you may need to water less frequently, especially in the cooler months. A good rule of thumb is to water when the top inch of soil feels dry to the touch.
- Feeding: Orchids are relatively light feeders, but they benefit from periodic fertilization. Use a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer that is diluted to about one-quarter of the recommended strength. Feed orchids once a month during their growing season and avoid over-fertilizing.
- Re-potting: Orchids should be re-potted every 1-2 years to refresh their growing medium and ensure healthy root development. Be sure to choose a pot with good drainage and use a well-draining orchid mix to promote air circulation around the roots.
3. Addressing Pests and Diseases
Like all plants, orchids can be susceptible to pests and diseases. The most common issues for Bay Area orchid growers include aphids, mealybugs, and fungal infections. Regular inspection of your orchids is essential to catch problems early. If you notice pests, consider using an insecticidal soap or neem oil to treat the affected areas. For fungal issues, remove any affected leaves and adjust watering habits to ensure your orchids aren’t too wet.
Meet the Presenter – Lisa Erdos
Lisa Erdos, a Master Gardener since 2009, is passionate about helping people learn how to grow and care for their plants. With 30 years of experience in the pharmaceutical industry, Lisa found her true calling in gardening, where she now dedicates her time to volunteering with organizations like the Noe Valley Library, the San Francisco Botanical Garden, and the Garden for the Environment. She enjoys mentoring gardeners through the Master Gardener Helpline, solving plant problems, and fostering a love of gardening in others.
In her own garden, Lisa successfully grows a variety of orchids, including Masdevallia, Cymbidium, Dendrobium kingianum, and Phalaenopsis. She finds it incredibly rewarding to see these beautiful plants bloom and thrive in San Francisco’s unique climate.
Conclusion
Orchids can be a rewarding plant to grow, even in the cool and temperate climate of San Francisco and the Bay Area. By choosing the right varieties, learning how to care for them properly, and staying vigilant for pests and diseases, you can enjoy beautiful orchids that thrive year-round. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn from an expert, Master Gardener Lisa Erdos, at our upcoming event on growing orchids in the Bay Area. Whether you’re a new grower or a seasoned gardener, you’ll leave with the knowledge and confidence to grow your own orchids successfully.
See other interesting events in San Carlos. You may also check the main calendar for the dates of these, or to save them on your personal calendar.
About San Carlos Life
Mark Martinho and Vivienne Kelvin are the hosts of San Carlos Life and have been residents of San Carlos for years. While running San Carlos Life together with an awesome team, Mark and Viv are also in the business of real estate. They are the co-owners of Vabrato, a luxury real estate brokerage serving the City of Good Living and the whole of San Mateo and Santa Clara counties.
With over 30 years of combined experience in the business and 95% of their clients coming in from referrals, Mark and Viv take great pride and joy in exceeding your expectations.
Need help in buying or selling a home in San Carlos?
We’re never too busy for you or your referrals. If you know anyone who needs help in buying or selling a home in San Carlos, we’d love to chat with them!
