How to Grow and Care for Orchids
Orchids are diverse and elegant plants, with many species adapted to different environments. Most common houseplant orchids (Phalaenopsis, Dendrobium, Cattleya) require bright, indirect light, airy potting mixes, precise watering and regular light feeding. This guide covers species selection, potting media, watering technique, fertilizers and treatments for pests and diseases to encourage healthy growth and reblooming.
Choosing an Orchid
For beginners Phalaenopsis (moth orchids) are ideal: forgiving, long-blooming and adaptable to typical indoor conditions. Dendrobiums and Cattleyas suit more experienced growers who can provide specific light and temperature regimes. Inspect plants before purchase for healthy firm leaves and active roots—avoid plants with soft or black roots indicating rot.
Potting Medium and Containers
Most orchids are epiphytes and need a loose, well-draining mix: bark, sphagnum moss, perlite and charcoal blends work well. Phalaenopsis do well in chunky bark allowing air to roots. Transparent pots help monitor root health. Repot every 1–2 years when media decomposes, which can hold excess moisture and cause root rot.
Light and Temperature
Provide bright, indirect light—east or west windows are ideal. Avoid hot midday sun that scorches leaves. Day temperatures around 70–85°F (21–29°C) and nights 55–65°F (13–18°C) suit many orchids. A modest day-night temperature difference often stimulates spike formation and flowering.
Watering and Humidity
Water when the potting medium dries—typically once weekly, but frequency varies with pot size, media and environment. Water thoroughly and allow excess to drain; never let roots sit in water. Increase humidity to 50–70% where possible with trays or room humidifiers and good air circulation to prevent fungal issues.
Fertilizing
Use a balanced water-soluble orchid fertilizer at quarter to half strength every 1–2 weeks during active growth. Flush pots monthly with plain water to remove salt buildup. Switch to a bloom-boosting fertilizer higher in phosphorus before and during flowering if desired.
Pests, Diseases and Treatments
Common pests include mealybugs, scale and spider mites—treat by wiping with alcohol, using insecticidal soap or systemic insecticides for severe infestations. Root rot requires trimming affected roots and repotting into fresh, dry media. Fungal leaf spots respond to improved ventilation, less humidity on leaves, and fungicides when needed. For bud drop, check for sudden temperature or humidity changes and correct quickly.
Encouraging Rebloom
After flowering, allow plants rest and continue to provide light and regular feeding. For Phalaenopsis, cutting the spike above a node can sometimes trigger a secondary bloom; otherwise cut to the base and let the plant build energy for the next spike. Patience and stable conditions often produce the best rebloom results.