Orchids are very rarely found in the garden in this country. And that despite the fact that there are so many beautiful and easy-care varieties. Such as the "Sabine" butterwort.
Orchids at home by the window are not uncommon. Orchids in the garden, on the other hand, are not found everywhere. Perhaps it is because the species usually prefer different site conditions. Uncertainty quickly spreads here. In addition, some are rather sensitive and require a lot of care from the hobby gardener. Others, on the other hand, are not quite as demanding, thrive magnificently and develop an elegant flower pile.
The “Sabine” thornwort, for example, is easy to handle. This pretty plant belongs to the genus Epipactis within the orchid family and is a cross between marsh bristlewort (Epipactis palustris) and giant bristlewort (Epipactis gigantea).
Epipactis "Sabine" in short portrait
Like all orchids, the Stendelwurz hybrid forms multi-flowered stalks, on which up to 15 bright purple and green colored individual flowers are presented. The flowering period is from June to July. Its orchid-typical blossom lasts three to four weeks and smells pleasant. Depending on the site conditions, the flower stalks can reach a height of 30 to 60 centimeters.
This hardy variety also forms stolons. If the location suits it, it will multiply willingly and over the years it will form a sizeable eyrie.
This is what the perfect location for the garden orchid looks like
Choose a sunny to partially shaded location in a moist location for the thornwort. A bright location is important for the formation of magnificent flowers.
As far as soil is concerned, "Sabine" is very frugal. It develops well with a neutral to slightly acidic soil (instructions: test the pH value in the soil correctly). The soil should be moist, but not too wet. If you want to do something good for your thornwort, then mix the garden soil for the plant location with some rhododendron soil. This bog bed soil then keeps the moisture well in the ground.
By the way: This is the best time to plant the bried bristlewort "Sabine".Spring.
How to properly care for the butterwort "Sabine"
Casting:
You must keep the location of your precious saffron root evenly moist. If possible, use rainwater from the barrel for this purpose. It is also best to mulch the soil around your garden orchid. This means that the moisture from the soil does not evaporate quite as quickly.
Fertilize:
In the spring, fill up the nutrient depot in the soil with a mixture of compost and humus. Put the mixture on the planting sites and carefully work the mixture in with a small hand rake. Runners should not be damaged in the process. In the summer after flowering, fertilize the Stendelwurz with a potassium-rich liquid fertilizer. In this way, the plant can draw optimal strength for the winter.
Hiberation:
The Epipactus hybrid just described is hardy and tolerates icy cold. You can also create winter protection for your magnificent perennial. Cover the location of your plant with a layer of mulch mixed with pine twigs. This is how you keep the winter wetness away from the roots as much as possible. After the last frosts in spring, uncover the planting sites again.
Summary:
The hardy hollyhock "Sabine" is one of the popular garden orchids that are easy to care for. Place the Epipactus hybrid in a sunny location with neutral to slightly acidic soil and you can enjoy the elegant blooms from June to July. However, the soil must be kept evenly moist. Fertilize in spring with a mixture of compost and humus.