They’re easy to care for once you know their ideal conditions.
Orchid Care
When you first get your orchid, it will likely be healthy and in bloom.
Once the bloom falls off, the plant isn’t doomed for the trash can.
The Spruce / Katie Kerpel
you could care for the orchid and get it to re-bloom.
Be careful of direct sun, as it can burn the plants.
you’re free to purchase a pre-made mix or make your own.
The Spruce / Alonda Baird
Do not use regular potting soil or potting mix.
Orchids will not thrive in regular potting soil or potting mix.Slightly acidic soil pHis ideal.
Water
Orchids need to dry out between waterings to prevent rot.
Phalaenopsis orchidsThe Spruce / Alonda Baird
Use room-temperature water, and water slowly until it flows out of the pot’s drainage openings.
Before watering, look at the roots themselves.
If theyre plump and white or green, that means theyre already well-watered.
Dendrobium orchidsThe Spruce / Letícia Almeida
If theyre shriveled and gray, then they’re thirsty.
If theyre shriveled but spongey and black or brown, they might be rotting.
Temperature and Humidity
Depending how they’re classified, orchids do best inranges between 50oF and 90oF.
The Spruce / Alonda Baird
They prefer humidity levels from around 40 to 70 percent.
you might keep an orchid blooming longer if you provide a warm and somewhat humid environment.
Don’t fertilize during the winter months.
The Spruce / Alonda Baird
Is this the right plant for you?
Repotting during other periods of an orchids' life cycle can inhibit flowering.
Knowing theorchid varietyyou have is essential for its care.
Be sure to use a sharp and cleanpruning toolto keep the risk of infection to a minimum.
Some orchids (Phalaenopsis) may re-bloom on the same flower spike, if the spike is still green.
Once it turns brown, it’s safe to remove.
Wait until you’re sure your plant is done flowering before repotting your orchid.
Flowers generally last, on average, two to four months.
Common Pests & Plant Diseases
Orchids don’t tend to have major pest problems.
Another solution to control insect populations isneem oil, which can smother pests.
However, subpar conditions can result in some common problems.
Leaves Shriveled and Wrinkled
Shriveled and wrinkled leavesindicate that the orchid is not receiving enough water.
The culprit is often unhealthy roots.
If that doesn’t work, repot the plant and remove any unhealthy roots.
Drooping Leaves
If the leaves are drooping, you may be underwatering the orchid.
Orchids thrive with consistent levels of moisture.
Another cause is too little light.
Move the orchid to a spot with bright, indirect light.
Buds Dropping
If buds drop before they bloom, the plant is under stress.
Investigate the orchid’s environment and perhaps move it to a better spot.
Remember, it is normal for older flowering stems to turn brown after the blooms have fallen off.
Maintain appropriate heat and humidity levels.
Healthy orchids will re-bloom naturally.
Indoor potted orchids canlive a very long lifegiven the right care, living for between 15 to 20 years.
Orchids typically will rebloom within six to nine months, though sometimes it can take up to a year.
Be patient with your orchid and verify it is in a happy and healthy environment to encourage reblooming.
No, orchids are non-toxic to dogs and cats.
Orchid Pests, Diseases, and Cultural Issues.Orchid Society.
What Causes Orchid Leaves to Turn Yellow and Shrivel?.University of Maryland Extension Home and Garden Information Center.
