FAQ

    Can I come to your facility and buy orchids or herbs directly from you? Or just to visit?

    We are not open to the public. However, you can find our products at many retail locations such as Costco, Safeway, Whole Foods, Trader Joes, Raley’s, Save Mart, Armstrong Garden Centers and Farmers markets.

    Do I need to give my plants fertilizer?

    For orchids, when they are blooming fertilizer is not needed. But if you choose to fertilize, use a 10-10-10 or 12-12-12.

    For herbs, if you plant 1 gallon in the ground, fertilize once every 21 days with your favorite organic fertilizer.

    Do I need to plant the herbs I bought in the ground? Or transplant them into a different pot?

    Most herbs can be transplanted into the ground or another pot. However, Rocket Farms herbs are meant to be used in the kitchen and eaten just like they would be from your garden.

    How do I water my orchid garden with the ivy and fern? Do I have to water the orchid separately from the other plants?

    Yes. Orchids require much less water than the ivy and fern. Unfortunately they do need to be watered separately. The metal tin does not have a drainage hole, it requires even less water.

    How do I water my orchid through the top dressing of decorative moss?

    Remove a small portion of the green moss and water through that area. Try to keep the top dressing dry if possible.

    How much water should I give my plant?

    Orchid: ½ cup

    Basil: 2 cups for 1 gallon, ½ cup for 4”

    How often should I water my… (Basil, Orchid, etc.)?

    Orchids should be watered about once every 20-25 days. Check the soil with a finger first; if it is moist at all, do not water. 3”mini phalaenopsis may require to be watered more often. Once every 8-15 days (also check medium before watering). It is better to underwater than overwater. Orchids in moss hold moisture very well, requiring less frequent watering. (link to orchid study)

    Basil: It depends on the environment and weather. Check moisture level in the soil, and if it feels dry, water as needed.

    Is it safe to eat the herbs I bought?

    Yes! All of our herbs are grown inside greenhouses without the use of pesticides and in accordance with our robust food safety protocol.

    What variety are the tomatoes I bought?

    If your plant has tomatoes on the vine, the variety is called “Totem”: just pick and eat when ripe.  They can be planted in the ground or a larger pot if desired, but this is not necessary, and the plant will not get any bigger.  The leaves will start to turn brown and wilt as fruit ripens; this is normal.

    Varieties in one gallon pot without fruit are “heirloom.”  Plant in the ground or patio pot at least 12” in diameter in full sun. Water at least every 3-4 days. Plants will flower and bear fruit in mid to late summer.

    Rocket Farms Heirloom varieties include:

    • Brandy Wine
    • German Stripe
    • Beef Steak
    • Early Girl
    • Black Trim
    • Pineapple
    • Cherokee Purple

    Where should I keep my orchid?

    Keep it indoors, in a place where it does not get too much direct sunlight. As a general rule of thumb, if you are comfortable your orchid will be comfortable. Avoid drafts and keep the orchid away from heaters.

    Why are there brown spots on my basil?

    Cold damage kills cells in leaf causing dark spots. Try and keep your basil above 50 F for best results.

    Why did the leaves on my orchid turn yellow?

    It could be overwatering or too much direct sunlight, which burns the leaves.

    Why is my Basil plant wilting?

    • Temperature too high
    • Drastic change in temperature from hot to cold
    • Insects
    • Too much water (root rot.)
    • Too dry: water and let drain through until pot is heavy and soil is saturated.