Call us: +44 (0)1227 789 649 - Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm
Orchid Culture
Orchid Culture 100 Hours Certificate Course
Contact us
PayPal Pay Later
Pay in 3 interest-free payments
-
Choose PayPal at checkout to pay later with Pay in 3.
-
Complete your purchase with the first payment today.
-
Remaining payments are taken automatically.
Pay in 3 is a form of credit, so carefully consider whether the purchase is affordable and how you will make the repayments. Be aware of the possible impact of using Pay in 3 and of missing payments, including making other borrowing more difficult or more expensive. Pay in 3 eligibility is subject to status and approval. 18+ UK residents only. Available for purchases of £30 to £2,000. Terms and conditions apply. PayPal Pay in 3 is a trading name of PayPal (Europe) S.à r.l. et Cie, S.C.A. 22-24 Boulevard Royal L-2449, Luxembourg.
Learn About Orchid Culture
Orchid Culture Course Online
Whether you are an enthusiastic amateur, or working professionally in horticulture looking to increase your areas of expertise, our online Orchid Culture course will help give you a solid foundation in order to become an orchid expert.
You will learn to differentiate between different orchid types, understand the differing cultural requirements for various orchids, grow orchids outside, in a greenhouse or as an indoor plant, choose the best orchid for a given situation and work with orchids.
You will find this course useful if you are:
Passionate about orchids.
An enthusiastic amateur or professional orchid grower.
A nursery person or plant breeder.
A horticulturist or plant collector.
Course Information
Other Categories
Lessons
Lesson Structure:Orchid Culture BHT232
There are 8 lessons:
1 Introduction
- Introduction to Orchid Species
- Plant Names and the System for Naming Orchids
- Orchid sub families and tribes
- Plant Name Pronunciation
- Orchid Plant structure.
- Resources
- Terminology
2 Culture
- Overview of Growing Orchids
- Guidelines; temperature, light, humidity, ventilation, watering, feeding, potting mixes
- Growing Cattleyas
- Substrates for Geophytes and Epiphytes
- Understanding Soils; texture, pH, nutrient availability, fertility,
- Mycorrhyza and Orchids
- Propagating and Potting Media
- Nutrients and Nutrition
- Plant Health; orchid pests, orchid diseases, other problems
- Pruning Orchids
- Watering Orchids
3 Propagation
- Sexual vs. asexual propagation
- Asexual Propagating sympodial Orchids
- Asexual Propagation of Monopodial Epiphytes
- Aerial Offset Propagation (Keikis)
- Propagating Orchids by Seed
- Hybrid Seed Production
- Harvesting Orchid Seed
- Flasking Method of Seed Sowing
- Tissue (Meristem) Culture of Orchids
- Propagation Equipment; greenhouses, hotbeds, cold frames, mist systems, furo light boxes, etc
4 Cymbidiums And Dendrobiums
- Cymbidium culture
- Dendrobium Types -soft cane, hard cane, black haired
- Dendrobium Culture
- Dendrobium species
5 Cattleyas, Vandas And Other Commonly Grown Orchids
- Cattleya varieties and culture
- Vandas; main species and culture
- Odontoglossum
- Oncidium -types (climbing and spreading), culture
- Paphiopedalum (Slipper Orchids)
- Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchids)
- Pleione (Indian Crocus)
- Crucifix Orchids (Epidendrum)
6 Australian Native Orchids
- Endemic, naturalised and indigenous plantsProblem Based Learning Project, with the following Learning Ourtcomes:
- Determine which species of orchids are most commonly sold in your locality.
- Determine orchid varieties which are being grown in your locality
- Determine any orchid genera suited to growing in a warm climate.
7 Growing Orchids: Commercial and general uses
- Cut Flower Production
- Basket Plants
- Epiphytes
- Review of Orchid Genera for Cut Flower Production
- Environmental Requirements for many significant orchid genera
- Vanilla Bean Culture and Production
- Greenhouse Management for Orchids
8 Harvest and Special Project On One Group Of Orchids
- Crop Scheduling; Writing a schedule for production of an Orchid Crop
- Harvest and Post Harvest of Selected Orchid Cut Flowers; bud opening, transport, storing flowers, etc
- Cattleya, Cymbidium, Dendrobium
Each lesson culminates in an assignment which is submitted to the school, marked by the school’s tutors and returned to you with any relevant suggestions, comments, and if necessary, extra reading.
Learning Goals
Learning Goals: Orchid Culture BHT232
- Understand the system of plant classification and naming
- Explain appropriate way to grow a range of different orchid species.
- Describe common methods of Orchid Propagation
- Understand the basics of the structure, taxonomy and culture of Cymbidiums and Dendrobiums
- Describe the identification and culture of some of the more commonly grown orchids apart from Dendrobiums and Cattleyas
- Describe the identification and culture of some of orchids native to your locality or region.
- Describe a range of alternative ways in which to grow orchids
- Research commercial orchid growing
Practical (Set Tasks)
Examinations
Program Summary
More Information
What You Will Do In This Course:
- Compile a resource file or organisations and information sources relevant to orchids.
- Obtain and orchid flower; draw and label this flower.
- Review 56 different orchid species in detail.
- Obtain soil from two different areas (two different types of soils). Using the tests in the Lesson notes, do the following, name each of these soils and test the drainage of each soil.
- Obtain (or make up) a potting mix which you consider appropriate for growing orchids.
- Visit a nursery or garden growing orchids. Notice how and where these plants are growing.
- Determine which plants are healthiest and assess the conditions in which they are growing.
- Obtain enough plant material to propagate four different orchids. Propagate these orchids vegetatively.
- Visit a nursery, or some other place which sells a wide range of different types of pots.
- Consider the properties of the pots you see for sale and their suitability for growing orchids in. Note down the prices of each.
- Investigate further into tissue culture processes specific to Orchids beyond the notes offered in the course.
- Determine which species of orchids are most commonly sold in your locality.
- Carry out research and look through any references you have and determine any orchid genera (not yet covered in this course), which are suited to growing in a tropical or sub-tropical climate.
- Visit (virtual or real) a plant nursery which sells a range of native orchids. List differentat orchid varieties which are being grown in your locality.
- Visit a florist shop. Notice what orchids are being sold; how they are presented for sale, how they are stored etc
- Evaluate the cultural practices observed (or investigated) in the different enterprises which you considered in your set task.
Excerpt From The Course
CYMBIDIUMS This is a very diverse group, with an immense number of hybrids and varieties. Cymbidiums are more cold tolerant than Cattleyas (they withstand temperatures to around 7 degrees Celsius); hence more are commonly grown in cooler areas. In cool areas many people have outstanding success with Cymbidiums grown in a shade house, on a veranda or under the protection of a large tree. Watering is ceased over winter, and in wet areas, some people turn pots on their side for a period to stop the roots getting too wet and rotting. Cymbidiums will perform better if winter temperatures can be kept around 10ºCelsius (perhaps bring them indoors over winter). Flower spikes develop over winter and bloom throughout the spring. Temperatures around 20‑27º Celsius are preferred over summer. All Cymbidiums prefer indirect sunlight, particularly once flowers open, however some are more sun tolerant than others. Pink or red Cymbidiums tolerate brighter light than green flowering types. Yellow and white flowering varieties vary in their light tolerance. Every variety of Cymbidium needs to reach a certain size before it will flower. This varies from one variety to the next: for one it may require three mature bulbs, and for another three times that number.Cymbidiums can be grown from back bulbs (pseudo bulbs), similar to the way Cattleyas are propagated, however with Cymbidiums, one pseudobulb is sufficient for a new plant. Bulb rot is common if pots get over wet in summer (control with a Fongarid drench). Black leaf spot often occurs ‑ control with a Mancozeb spray. If the summer is dry, bulb rot is unlikely, but mites are more likely. Watering in the evening in summer helps drop the root temperature for the night, which in turn helps initiate flowering. In very hot late summer conditions, apply a weak Epsom salts solution to Cymbidiums weekly. Feed Cymbidiums regularly over spring and autumn, but not through late summer – being short on nutrients in January/February, helps promote flowering. DENDROBIUMS There are several different groups of Dendrobiums: 1. Soft Cane ‑The cane is generally swollen or thick and soft inside. 2. Black Haired (Nigro‑hirsute) ‑canes are covered by short black hairs. 3. Hard Cane ‑canes are thin and long As a group, Dendrobiums are diverse both in how they look and how they need to be treated. Many are native to Australia while many others are exotic from Asia. Though most Dendrobiums are epiphytes and many need to be grown on a slab of fern or timber; some will grow quite well in a pot. There are Dendrobiums which will grow in all types of climates from the tropics to cool temperate areas, though most come from mild or warm climates. If we were to generalize the most important requirement is fresh air or good ventilation, followed by appropriate shade. Over watering is always a danger with Dendrobiums grown in pots. Many can be grown by division of offsets or separation. The pseudobulbs of Dendrobiums are commonly elongated and look like a piece of cane, hence are commonly called canes.
Species | Type | Requirements | Growing Method |
Dendrobium adae | Hard cane | Shady site | Epiphyte |
D. aggregatum | Hard cane | Need long dry period | Very open mix |
D. bellatulum | Black hair | Dry out over winter | Epiphyte‑fern slab is ideal |
D. bigibbum (Cooktown Orchid) | Hard cane | Prefers bright light | Pot or Epiphytic or lithophyte |
D. canaliculatum | Hard cane | Bright light | Epiphyte |
D. discolor | Hard cane | Bright light | Pot or epiphyte or lithophyte |
D. formosum | Black hair | Very warm climates | Epiphyte |
D. gracilicaule | Hard cane | Bright light | Epiphyte or lithophyte |
D. kingianum | Hard cane | Semi‑shaded position | Pot or lithophyte |
D. nobile | Soft cane | At least 50% shade | Epiphytic |
D. speciosum | Hard cane | Prefers bright light | Epiphyte or (Sydney rock orchid) or lithophyte |
Assessment
Assessment is based on a combination of completing all assignments and sitting for a final short one and a half hour exam, in your own location.
If you don’t cope well with exams then you may elect to undertake a project instead. This is a popular option.
In addition, most modules have a Set Task at the end of each lesson placed before the assignment. This is an opportunity to undertake practical work to help you acquire knowledge and skills and practical experience. This ADL feature is an added bonus not found at most online schools. Set Tasks are not required for assessment.
Some courses also have optional Self-Tests which are available on our online learning platform. These are not available by correspondence or by USB, and do not form part of your overall grade.
How our courses work
- Choose Your Learning Method
You choose how you would like to receive your course material, i.e., Online, USB or Correspondence. The choice is yours. You may also work on online or offline. - Tutor Allocation
Every student is assigned their own dedicated tutor who is an expert in their subject area. They provide as much or as little individual contact as you require. You can contact your tutor whenever you need – your hours are not limited. - Feedback and Assignments
Tutor Feedback is an essential component in helping you understand the subject matter. Tutor feedback is given in the form of notes written on the assignment. We encourage you to contact your Tutor where help with clarification and understanding of course material may be required.
Your assignments are located at the end of each lesson. You submit them for marking whenever you are ready. There is no time limit. - Set Tasks and Self-Tests
Most modules have a Set Task at the end of each lesson before for the assignment. This is where you get the opportunity to undertake practical work to help you acquire knowledge, skills and practical experience. Many modules also have short Self-Tests. - Exams
Once all assignments have been completed you may then elect to sit for a one and half hour exam in your own location. If you prefer not to take the exam you do have the option to undertake a project instead.
Once the exam or project part of the course is completed, your Certificate is then processed. Please allow approximately 4 weeks for this. - Design Your Own Qualification
ADL offers students the flexibility to self-design their own qualification – bundling together a combination of 100-hour modules into a qualification higher than a certificate.
FAQ
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Here is a list of the most often asked FAQ’s.
General
Q. Why should I enrol with the Academy for Distance Learning?
A. Here at ADL, our students are our priority – we treat everyone as a unique individual.
Q. Do I need to buy text books?
A. No, as each module has been written by highly qualified industry professionals. The content of the material is presented in such a way that text books are not required. However, if you require additional reading your tutor will be able to supply a list.
Q. What happens if I have to stop studying for a while? (eg. become sick, go on holidays, have a baby, move house, etc)
A. It’s OK to take a break and start up your study at a later point in time. Just let us know.
Q. Is there an age limit?
A. There is no maximum age limit. We do however, have a minimum age limit of 18 years. Below that age parental consent would be required.
Q. Are your courses up-to date?
A. Our courses are revised and updated on a rotation system.
Q. Do you have a Cancellation policy?
A. Yes. We have a cancellation policy that is fair and equitable. For further details please click here.
Q. Will I have any opportunity to engage with other students?
A. We have a Student Community group based on facebook! If you don’t have a facebook account already, you could make one just for talking with fellow students on the group.
Enrolment
Q. When can I enrol/start?
A. You may enrol and start at any time of the year – it’s all self- paced.
Q. Can I study from anywhere in the world?
A. Our courses are available to anyone, anywhere in the world from the comfort of your own home. The course content is relevant to any country, culture or economy.
Q. How long do I have to complete the course?
A. You complete the course at any time that is convenient for you.
Q. Completing a 100 hour module – how long will it take?
A. For some students a 100 hour module will take approximately to 3- 6 months to complete. Others take less time and some even longer.
Assessment
Q. Assessment – how does it work?
A. For each 100 hour module you are assessed by assignments (at the end of each lesson) and a final one and a half hour exam (or you may elect to complete a Project, instead of sitting the exam) – the choice is yours – you sit for the exam in your own location.
Q. I don’t cope well with exams – what can I do?
A. You may elect to undertake a Project (set by your tutor) instead of sitting the exam. Projects are completed from your home and can usually take a couple of weeks to complete.
Q. If my assignment is not up to standard is there an opportunity to resubmit my work?
A. Yes –
Q. How many assignments do I need to complete for each module?
A. At the end of each lesson, there is an assignment – so if a course has say, 10 lessons, there would be 10 assignments.
Q. I am having difficulty attending workshops/industry meetings, what can be done?
A. If your course requires attendance at workshops, conferences, or industry meetings; alternative arrangements can be made in your country.
Qualifications
Q. What qualification will I receive?
A. For individual modules, you would be awarded a Certificate endorsed by TQUK (Training Qualifications, UK), providing you complete all assignments and the exam. If you just want to complete only the assignments and not sit for the exam or finish a Project, then a Letter of Achievement would be awarded. For more details on qualifications available please click here.
Q. Can I customize my diploma/higher qualification?
A. Not all educational institution’s certificates /diplomas meet everyone’s needs. The opportunity to Design Your Own Diploma at the Academy (subject to our approval) is an added bonus, not found at other colleges. You choose modules that you think will help you in achieving your goal.
Q. What do I get when I complete the course? Will I receive a transcript?
A. At the completion of all courses and providing all assignments and exam requirements have been met, you will receive your Award and a Transcript.
Tutors
Q. Our tutors – who are they?
A. We appoint Tutors and require that they must be currently active in their industry, with at least 5 years’ experience in their chosen profession.
Q. Can I contact my tutor at any time?
A. Yes – you have unlimited access to your tutor via email through our Online Classroom. You can always leave a message with ADL requesting your tutor to contact you. You decide on how much or how little contact you wish to have.
Q. Practical work – How is this done?
A. To find out more about this part of the course please visit the section on How Our Courses Work here.
Career Options
What's Included
What your tuition fees include
- All Course Material via Online, USB or Correspondence
- Assignments Marked
- Professional Tutor Feedback
- Set Tasks - Practical Exercises to help you develop skills
- Self-Tests – multiple choice questions at the end of lessons in most modules
- Unlimited Personal Tutor Support – via our student classroom
- Committed and Friendly Admin Support – vital to your success
- All ADL Exam or Project fees (exception RHS exams)
- Qualification Certificate
- Official Transcript with assignment grades
- Student Manual
Plus FREE
- Academic Writing course (optional - 10 hours only)
- Critical Thinking course (optional - 10 hours only)
- Job Seekers Careers Guide
- Study Tips on How To Study Better
- Career Counselling by ADL Staff
- CV Writing Help, Tips and Advice
There are no hidden extras
Career Opportunities
FAQ - RHS Theory Qualifications
GENERAL
If you require further details about any of the RHS industry recognised qualifications please, call one of our friendly RHS Course Advisors on +44 (0)1227 789 649 or email: [email protected]
Q: When can I Enrol/Start My RHS Course With ADL?
A: Anytime, Anywhere. There are no enrolment deadlines.
Q: I live Overseas. Can I Study From Overseas?
A: You can study any of the RHS theory qualifications overseas. All courses are offered in English. You will need to email RHS Qualifications direct to arrange sitting for your examination overseas.
Q: Is There a Time Limit for Completing an RHS Qualification?
A: At present there are no time limits. However, RHS is contemplating in the future, the introduction of course time-lines.
Q: Are There Any Entry Requirements (Pre-Requisites)?
A: The RHS Theory courses do not require prerequisites, previous experience or any knowledge of horticulture. You just need passion for all things horticulture.
Q: What Course Should I Start With First? I Am New To RHS Qualifications.
A: We highly recommend that you start with Level 2 – Principles of Garden Planning, Establishment and Maintenance.
Q: What Does ADL Course Material Include?
A: Includes Power Point Presentations, Videos and written course lessons.
RHS EXAMS
Q: When Do Exams Take Place?
A: Exams are held on fixed dates in February and June of each year. You should register as a candidate at least 3 months before these dates, so please do not leave exam registration to the last minute
Q: Where Do I Take My Exams?
A: UK: You take the exams at the RHS Wisley Centre, located between Cobham and Ripley in Surrey or at other authorised RHS centres around the UK.
Overseas: please email RHS qualifications direct for centre information.
Q: Exam Pass Marks?
A: Module – pass 50%. Commendation 70%.
Qualification: 50% pass for all modules.
Commendation awarded for all modules.
Each question carries a value of 10 marks.
Q: I’m Not Happy With My Exam Results?
A: You have the opportunity to re-sit your exam at the next opportunity.
There are no restrictions on the number of re-sits you can take. The highest mark you achieve will remain.,