Orchids are one of our favorite blooming plants to offer. They are elegant, colorful, and exotic. While they appear delicate, these blooming plants are hardy and can last a long time with just minimal care. There are more than 20,000 types of orchids available, so it would be hard to imagine not finding one that you like. If anything, it's hard to narrow down one to select for your home or as a gift. Orchids serve as a symbol for many things, including love, elegance, and fertility.   The most popular orchids we offer in our San Diego flower shop include the phalaenopsis and dendrobium. These bloom one to two times a year with a bloom that can last about a month. If you buy an orchid for yourself or you receive one as a gift, here are some tips on how to care for an orchid so they enjoy a long life. Container and Soil Make sure to use a container or pot that provides plenty of drainage, including drainage holes to let excess water drain away from the orchid plant. Orchids should  be put in a container with fast-draining soil. This type of social is either a moss-based or bark-based potting mix. The bark-based mix allows water to drain the fastest.   Temperature and Light Orchids grow best in temperatures between 60 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. They don't need much air circulation, but orchids do need a lot of indirect light.  They do well when placed near a south- or east-facing window. Water   Watering frequency depends on humidity levels and climate where the orchid will live. Typically, you need to water an orchid every few days. Just be careful to not overwater them because root rot is a common effect.    [...]