Ground orchids are terrestrial plants, growing with their roots in the soil, distinguishing them from epiphytic orchids that cling to trees. Cultivating these flowers successfully in Florida requires specific adjustments for the state’s challenging climate, including intense solar radiation, high humidity, and poor, sandy soils. Establishing a thriving ground orchid garden depends directly on selecting appropriate varieties and meticulously preparing the planting environment.
Selecting Appropriate Ground Orchid Types
The first consideration is the difference between native and non-native ground orchids, as their care requirements vary significantly. While Florida has many native terrestrial species, such as the Calopogon (Grasspink), these often require specialized, undisturbed bog habitats. Because native species rely on specific fungal partners and moisture levels that are difficult to replicate, most gardeners find greater success with robust, non-native cultivars.
Two popular, easy-to-grow non-native genera are Spathoglottis (Philippine Ground Orchid) and Epidendrum (Reed-stem Orchid). Spathoglottis plicata is favored for its shade tolerance and continuous blooming through the warm months. Epidendrum radicans produces clusters of bright orange or reddish-purple flowers and is more tolerant of partial sun. Selection must align with the specific USDA hardiness zone within Florida.
Plants like Spathoglottis and Phaius tankervilliae (Nun’s Orchid) thrive in Zone 10 (South Florida), where they can be planted in the ground year-round. Gardeners in Central Florida (Zone 9B) should treat these tropical varieties as semi-hardy, often requiring container growing so they can be moved indoors during cold weather. For cooler areas of North Florida, species like Bletilla striata (Hyacinth Orchid) are a more suitable choice, as they are adapted to temperate climates and handle a winter dormancy period.
Preparing the Planting Site
Ground orchids require a specific location that balances Florida’s intense sunlight with their need for consistent light to bloom. The ideal exposure is an area that receives dappled shade throughout the day or direct sun only during the cooler morning hours. Intense midday and afternoon sun, especially during the summer, can quickly scorch the leaves of soft-leaved varieties like Spathoglottis, reducing plant health and flowering potential.
The composition of the planting medium is the most significant factor, as typical Florida sandy soil is nutrient-poor and drains too quickly. Terrestrial orchids need a loose, well-aerated, and rich medium that retains moisture without becoming waterlogged. Successful growers often amend the native soil heavily or create raised beds specifically for these orchids.
A suitable planting mix can be created by blending native sand with organic materials like peat moss, composted pine bark fines, and perlite or vermiculite for drainage and aeration. Incorporating organic peat humus or mushroom compost helps the soil retain essential moisture and nutrients for the roots. When planting, set the rhizomes or pseudobulbs at the same depth they were in their nursery container, ensuring the roots are well spread and covered.
Essential Ongoing Care
Once the ground orchids are established, a consistent watering schedule is necessary, especially during the dry winter and spring months. Although they require consistent moisture, ground orchids are highly susceptible to rot if their roots remain saturated, making excellent drainage paramount. Water thoroughly until water runs out of the planting area, then allow the top two to three inches of soil to dry slightly before watering again.
During Florida’s rainy season (June through September), supplemental watering is often unnecessary due to high humidity and daily rainfall. Monitoring the soil moisture is the best guide, as overwatering promotes the growth of water molds like Phytophthora and Pythium, which cause devastating black rot in the root system.
Ground orchids are relatively heavy feeders compared to their epiphytic relatives and benefit greatly from regular nutrient application due to the sandy soil’s lack of organic matter. A balanced, slow-release granular fertilizer (e.g., 3-1-1 NPK ratio) should be applied every three to four months during the growing season. Supplementing the granular feed with a weak solution of liquid fertilizer provides necessary trace elements and micronutrients.
Monitoring for pests and providing winter protection are the final elements of successful long-term care. Common orchid pests like scale insects, mealybugs, and spider mites can infest ground orchids, requiring treatment with horticultural oil or insecticidal soap. Slugs and snails are also a concern, as they can chew on new growth and flowers, making the application of organic slug bait necessary. For growers in North Florida, in-ground plants should be heavily mulched around the base and covered with frost cloth when temperatures are forecast to drop below 40°F to prevent freeze damage.