Easy Orchid Care Guide

Caring for Orchids

Many orchids found for sale in retail stores (Phalaenopsis, Cattleya, Dendrobium, and Oncidium) are epiphytes. Epiphytes, more commonly referred to as “air plants,” do not grow in soil. Instead, they anchor themselves to another plant with their roots. They receive their nutrients and water from the air, rain, and debris around them, using the plant they sit upon only as a support structure.

A good balance of light, water, food, air circulation, and temperature control is needed to ensure optimal growth and flowering of your orchid. Although orchids belong to one of the largest, most diverse families of flowering plants, there are some general guidelines when it comes to caring for an epiphytic orchid.

Which Orchid Should I Choose?

Phalaenopsis orchids, more commonly known as moth orchids, are popular among both beginner and advanced growers due to their beautiful flowers and ease of care. With the right balance of light, water, food, and temperature, these orchids will bloom frequently and produce an abundance of gorgeous flowers.

Lighting

Poor lighting is the most common reason an orchid fails to bloom. Your orchid may produce lush, healthy growth, but without enough light, it will not flower. An orchid receiving sufficient light will typically have light, yellowish-olive green foliage, while lush, dark green foliage can be a sign of insufficient light.

BEST LOCATION
Orchids typically prefer low, indirect light and do best near an east, west, or lightly shaded southern window. In overcast climates, however, some direct sunlight may be necessary.

CAUTIONS

Be sure to protect your orchid from temperature extremes that can occur when it is placed too close to a window.

Watering

LESS IS MORE
More orchids die from overwatering than from any other cause. Orchids should be watered just as they begin to dry out. If an orchid is left in constantly wet growing medium, it can develop root rot, which may eventually kill the plant.

WHEN TO WATER
We recommend watering your orchid in the morning, allowing any excess water not absorbed by the potting medium to evaporate throughout the day. Stagnant moisture from nighttime watering can lead to bacterial and fungal diseases. It is also important to avoid using distilled or softened water.

Temperature

Orchids typically enjoy temperatures similar to those you find comfortable, around 55–60°F at night and 75°F during the day.

Air Circulation

Orchids require a light, fast-draining potting medium that allows air to circulate around their roots while retaining enough moisture for the plant to thrive.

HUMIDITY
Orchids are naturally found in rainforests and therefore thrive in environments with high humidity. Set your orchid container on a tray of pebbles with a shallow layer of water to increase the humidity immediately surrounding the plant.

Fertilization & Potting

FERTILIZATION
Orchids should be fertilized regularly but will perform far better with too little fertilizer than with too much. Growers often recommend feeding orchids “weakly, weekly” with a balanced fertilizer, such as 20-20-20. A “weak” feeding is diluted to one-quarter strength and preceded by normal watering.

POTTING
When repotting, gently remove the potting mixture from the orchid’s roots and trim away any rotted roots with a sharp, sterilized tool. Clean the inside of the container with soap and water, then repot the orchid using fresh potting medium.

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