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Orchids are wonderful houseplants that add color to our homes and gardens. Unfortunately, a lot of us never learn how to grow orchids properly because we’ve heard that they’re hard to grow.
The truth is: growing orchids is simple once you understand how their needs differ from other flowers you’re used to caring for.
These particularly beautiful and delicate flowers are always in the center of attention, standing out wherever you position them.
It is important to keep in mind a few basic rules so that you can enjoy the beauty of your blooming orchid for as long as possible. Read on below and find out how to grow and maintain an orchid!
About Growing Orchids
The orchid is a complex plant that comes from Asia, is made up of over 30,000 species, and produces extremely varied flowers in shape and color. These plants belong to the Orchidaceae family.
Orchids are grown as ornamental plants for centuries and are now some of the most popular indoor plants. In nature, orchids grow on trees or rocks or as terrestrial plants.
Orchid leaves are often green, but we can also find species with stripes or spots. The flowers can have various colors: pink, white, purple, yellow, red, blue, orange, and last, depending on the species, from a few days to a few months.
Quick Orchids Growing Information
| How much light is needed: | Usually, orchids grow to heights between 12 to 14 hours of sunlight. |
| How much water is needed: | Orchids require approximately 2 inches of water each week. |
| Is it best to start with seeds or plants: | It is preferable to start with seeds. |
| The best month to plant: | Orchids can be planted at any time of the year (indoors only). |
| Preferred climate/temperature: | During winter, orchids prefer temperatures between 57.2 and 60.5 degrees Fahrenheit, and temperatures between 71.5 to 75.5 degrees Fahrenheit are ideal in summer. |
| Is indoor or outdoor growing better: | Indoor growing is better and more common. |
| Do indoor plants need to be pollinated: | Yes. Orchids are dependent on pollinators. |
| Level of difficulty to grow: | Medium |
| Plant height: | Orchids are about 27.5 inches tall. |
| Time from planting to harvest: | It takes between 3 to 8 years for orchids to bloom after they have been planted. |
Tips for Growing Orchids
1. Fertilize Your Orchids
The layer of soil in which most outdoor orchids grow does not provide many nutrients, for this reason, fertilization is done relatively often, even once a week. Orchid fertilizers will be applied during the growing season, not at rest, i.e. during the winter.
2. Place Your Flower Pot with Care
Orchids generally prefer small pots. Plastic containers are usually recommended because the roots can be detached most easily from them for moving to another pot. Some types of orchids can stay in the same pot for up to 7 years. Other species of the flower must be replanted every year.
The move is made when the plant and its roots have developed too much for the pot in which it is or when the layer in which the orchid grows no longer has the initial qualities and no longer allows air circulation.
3. Keep Your Orchid Hydrated
Excess water is the main factor that leads to plant death. In the case of orchids, the pot is watered at room temperature, preferably with rainwater.
Watering is done every 7 to 9 days, in the morning is best. Do so by immersing the pot in water for a few minutes or by lightly watering the roots. Try not to get the leaves or flowering buds wet if possible.
Orchids prefer high levels of humidity. Thus, one way to increase humidity is to create a micro-climate by bringing several plants closer together. You can also invest in a humidifier.
Another method of increasing humidity is to spray the plant with water (also known as misting) so that water does not accumulate between the leaves at the base of the plant, as there is a risk of plant rot.
Orchids Growing FAQs
Does my orchid need fertilized?
Fertilization is done once a week during the growing season, and in winter fertilization is given up. For fertilization, products specially designed for the care of orchids are used. You can apply liquid fertilizer, gel fertilizer, or slow-release fertilizer sticks.
Adding organic compost and mulch to outside orchids is also highly suggested.
How do I prolong the life of my orchid?
The orchid must be cared for by applying fertilizer, correct positioning, and watering when the soil begins to dry out. It must be carefully observed after flowering.
After the flowers fall, the stems also begin to dry out and must be removed if drying is complete. If we want the plant to bloom again, cut the stems from the second node at the base.
What is the best place for orchids in the house?
The best place in the house to place an orchid is the window sill facing south or east. If it is located on the sill to the south, it is preferable to place it behind the curtain, to have a filter.
The orchid is a specimen that should not be missing from your houseplants if you are a true flower lover. If you haven’t grown an orchid yet, it’s time to give it a try.
What orchid care tips would you like us to help you with? Let us know in the comments section below!
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Suggested Reading: How to Grow Marigolds: Gardening Guide
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Jane
My grandma thought me how to grow Orchids when I was still knee high to a grass hopper. To this day they are my favorite flowers.
I think it’s important to let your reader’s know that you should let Orchids dry out COMPLETELY before watering again.