Could conservatories help grow the perfect orchid?

While orchids are the most popular plants in the UK, they are also "surprisingly difficult" to care for, one writer has claimed.

In an article for the Guardian, Huma Qureshi, a self-confessed fan of the fake orchid, spoke to a number of experts about how to grow the flower after two of hers died.

While a spokesperson from the Flowers and Plants Association said it was "very hard" to kill an orchid, Simon Richards, a product developer for flowers and plants at Marks & Spencer, sympathised, stating that it is a tropical plant and it can be difficult to recreate the conditions it needs in the UK.

An important part of orchid cultivation is getting them to reflower, something which conservatories may help with.

"It's ideal to put cut-down orchids in a conservatory or greenhouse to encourage reflowering; failing that, a north-facing windowsill will do," Ms Qureshi notes.

Britons may also wish to use their conservatories ( http://www.force8.co.uk/conservatories.php ) to house their less winter-resistant plants, by re-potting them and bringing them inside once the temperature drops.

See a full range of quality Composite Doors, Double Glazing ( http://www.force8.co.uk/index.php ) and conservatories ( http://www.force8.co.uk/conservatories.php ).

Written by Alison Goldman