Orchid Plant & Planter Care
Light Requirements
Medium to very bright, but no direct sunlight; insufficient light is the main cause of slow reblooming. Direct sun can cause sunburn, blistering and discoloration of leaves, and could cause bloom and bud drop.
Watering
For Orchids in their own container without additional plants: If you can easily remove the plastic grow pot from decorative container this is the best way to water your orchid. This is often difficult due to the way we need to support it in the container. Once the grow pot is out, water thoroughly in a sink, allowing plant to drain well before replacing in container. It's best to avoid wetting the crown of the plant so that it can be thoroughly dry before the cool of evening. Water once a week, but if weather is very warm and dry, water twice a week. Never allow plants to stand in water.
Should you choose not to remove your orchid from its container (or are unable to do so) - you can add a small amount of water (equal to the amount in a standard sized ice cube) to the base of the plant weekly. If the plant begins to yellow, you are adding too much water. If the blooms drop or droop, or if the green thick leaves at the base wrinkle, you are not adding enough.
For Orchids in a garden: The plants surrounding your orchid may require additional water, while the orchid plant can be watered minimally once a week. Do not over water your orchid. A small amount of water (equal to an ice cube) should suffice. If your plants start to yellow, you are over watering. If they droop, or the thick green leaves begin to wrinkle, you are possibly not watering enough. Each home or office is different when it comes to temperature, humidity, etc. Carefully watching your orchid planter daily for signs of yellowing or drooping will help you adjust you water levels. Don't over think this!
Temperature
Orchids thrive in day temperatures of 65-80 degrees F and night temperatures of 60-70 degrees F. Good air movement helps prevent fungus, but avoid heater or air conditioner drafts that could damage buds or blooms. Overly warm, dry conditions may shorten the life of your flowers.
Feeding
Use Spoonit Orchid or Miracid 30-10-10 once per week while not in bloom. It s best to use your fertilizer ¼ strength every time you water. After 4-6 months, you may switch to Bloomit Orchid 6-30-30 to encourage re-bloom.
Repotting
Repot only after blooming if needed. Orchids prefer to be root bound. If bark has become soft and felty or mossy and very small then repotting is suggested. Once the flowers have dropped from the stem, cut the stem off at the second ring up from the plant and place in an area of your home or patio that has indirect light. Water weekly, feed with orchid food (see above) and chances are very good you will be able to enjoy more blooms to come in the months ahead.
Additional care and information on Orchids can be found at: