Orchid Care and Cultivation

Choosing an Orchid

• Choosing a healthy plant is the key to successfully cultivating orchids. First, check that there are no signs of pests on the plant, such as chew marks or visible insects. Make sure your plant is fairly young with at least some buds still unopened and a healthy green color to the foliage. Any open buds should be colorful with no signs of damage or browning. Starting with a healthy plant will let you keep the orchid longer in your home and ensure that the best bloom will occur at home and not beforehand.

Potting

• One of the aspects of orchids that make them so desirable for home decor is their ability to thrive in small containers. Choose a container with plenty of drainage so that your orchid won't drown in excess water. Use soil that drains well for the same reason and change soil and containers yearly to make the plant last longer. The best time to repot is just after flowering, and you may need to find bigger containers as the roots begin to visibly outgrow their current potting arrangement. If planting indoors, consider setting up a fan nearby to make sure your orchid gets plenty of well-ventilated air.

Light and Temperature

• Proper light is essential for optimal flowering in orchids. Plant your orchids where they will receive plenty of indirect sun exposure from the east or south. Keep your orchid between 55 degrees and 85 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent them from freezing or burning, and try to maintain a steady temperature within that range for the best orchid health.

Water and Fertilizer

• Improper watering is the most prevalent reason for orchids to fail. Water your plant once or twice a week, or just often enough that the soil is always slightly damp but not soaking. Fertilizer is not necessary, but will greatly improve the look and longevity of your plant. To further encourage growth and healthy flowering, use fertilizers low in urea and high in nitrogen to feed your plants every other week.