How to Turn a Store-Bought Orchid into Something Special and Unique for the Home

Orchids are simple to care for and add a touch of the exotic to any decor. By adding a few finishing touches, you can personalize a store-bought orchid to be displayed proudly in your home or given as a meaningful gift. Just in time for Mother's Day, here are a few tips on purchasing the perfect orchid and creating a professional-looking vignette.

Tip #1: Be an expert orchid shopper. Beyond looking for a plant that has a lot of flowers, consider the direction the flowers face compared to the leaves. Ideally, you want the flowers to face toward you when the leaves are fanned out to the sides. Also, make sure the leaves are healthy and free from breakage and scars. Look for long, supple roots.

Tip #2: Find a container that suits the decor of the room where the orchid is to be placed. Go for something shiny or metallic; it will contrast nicely with the softness of the orchid itself. Be sure the opening is big enough for the root system to fit. (Use the little terra cotta pot that comes with the orchid to plant some culinary herbs in the kitchen, or flowers on your front porch.)

Tip #3: Fill in the extra space around the root system with orchid bark, which can be purchased at your local nursery or home improvement store.  The bark will retain excess moisture and hydrate the plant in between waterings.

Tip #3: Top off the bark with spongy, luscious green moss (also available at most nurseries). This is not only decorative, but also helps the bark retain necessary moisture around the root system.

Tip #4: Replace the plastic twist ties holding the stem of the orchid to the stake with twine or hemp string. Snip off the ends of the string so all you see is a nice, clean loop around the stem.

Tip #5: Finally, showcase your orchid in a place that receives indirect sunlight throughout the day. Group it with framed photos, cherished accessories or souvenirs from a memorable vacation. Experiment with stacking to vary the heights of the objects. You'll be creating an impressive focal point in the home that brings a smile to all who see it!