Dear Orchid Doc:

I have noticed quite a lot of bare-root orchids on the market. How does one care for these, especially in this heat?

— Lindsay

Dear Lindsay:

Bare-root orchids are like starting a new life, in that they probably were cut from a mother plant and need to start growing their own roots.

In order for new roots to start quickly, give them 50 per cent sunlight and also water them a lot — meaning as soon as they are dry, wet them.

Make sure that they are getting 50 per cent sunlight.

Once they are getting sufficient light and water, the roots will start to grow fast.

Do not water when they are already wet.

Too much sun and not enough water will dehydrate them, but at the same time too much water can cause rot.

Watch the body language of the plant. It will tell you what it needs.

Wrinkled leaves are signs of dehydration.

Also remember, if you plant the orchids too deep you will lose them.

Fertilise with a soluble fertiliser (once a week for the bare-root orchids).

As they start to grow roots you can probably increase the frequency.