how to take care of orchids

Orchids have a reputation for being difficult, but that’s often a myth. With a little knowledge of their specific needs, these elegant plants can thrive and reward you with breathtaking blooms year after year. The key is to think like an orchid, understanding where they come from and what makes them happy. Learning how to take care of orchids is less about having a green thumb and more about providing the right environment.

The Golden Rule of Watering Your Orchid

Overwatering is the number one reason orchids struggle. Most common orchids, like Phalaenopsis, are epiphytes, meaning they grow on trees in the wild and their roots are used to air circulation. The best method is the ice cube method or a thorough drench. For the drench, take your orchid to the sink and run lukewarm water through the potting mix for a full minute, then let it drain completely. Never let your orchid sit in water. A good rule is to water only when the potting medium feels dry to the touch and the roots look silvery-green.

Finding the Perfect Light for Growth

Light is the secret ingredient for triggering those gorgeous blooms. Orchids generally love bright, indirect light. A spot near an east-facing window is ideal. A south or west window can work, but you may need to diffuse the strong afternoon sun with a sheer curtain. If the leaves are a rich, dark green, your orchid might need more light. Yellowish or reddish leaves can signal too much direct sun.

A Simple Guide on How to Take Care of Orchids

Beyond water and light, a few other factors contribute to a happy plant. Orchids appreciate humidity, which you can provide by placing the pot on a tray of pebbles with water. Feed them weekly with a weak, diluted orchid fertilizer, but “weekly, weakly” is the mantra. After the blooms fade, don’t cut the entire spike! Instead, cut it just above a node (the small bump on the spike); it may re-bloom from that point.

When and How to Repot Your Plant

Orchids don’t need frequent repotting and actually like being a bit root-bound. Repot every one to two years, or when the potting mix breaks down and becomes soggy. When you do, use a special orchid potting mix, which is typically chunky and contains bark, to ensure plenty of air reaches the roots.

Caring for an orchid is a gentle, rewarding process. By paying attention to its water, light, and food needs, you can enjoy the sophisticated beauty of these plants for many seasons to come.