To care for an orchid properly and keep it healthy and blooming, follow these key guidelines:
Light
- Provide plenty of bright, indirect light. A south- or east-facing window is ideal. Avoid direct sunlight as it can burn the leaves
Watering
- Water about once a week, allowing the growing medium to dry out completely between waterings to prevent root rot
- Use room-temperature or lukewarm water, never ice-cold water
- Water thoroughly until water flows out of the drainage holes, then let the pot drain fully
- Check the roots: plump green or white roots indicate sufficient moisture; shriveled gray roots mean the plant needs water; black or brown shriveled roots suggest rot
Growing Medium
- Use a lightweight, well-draining orchid-specific mix, typically containing bark, sphagnum moss, and perlite. Do not use regular potting soil
Temperature and Humidity
- Maintain temperatures between 50°F and 90°F, ideally around 60-75°F
- Orchids prefer humidity levels between 40% and 70%. Avoid placing them near cold drafts or heating vents that dry the air
Fertilizing
- Feed orchids during the growing season (spring and summer) with a balanced orchid fertilizer (e.g., 20-20-20) diluted to half strength
- Reduce or stop fertilizing during the dormant period in winter
Additional Tips
- Repot orchids every 1-2 years using fresh orchid mix to maintain healthy roots
- After flowering, prune the flower spike just above the second node to encourage reblooming
- Avoid letting water sit in the crown of the plant to prevent crown rot
By following these care steps, your orchid can thrive and bloom repeatedly, making it a rewarding houseplant to grow
