Do Orchids Go Dormant?

No Flowers

• With the proper care, orchid plants will produce flowers anywhere from two to six months out of the year. During the rest of the year, the plant will shift its energy to producing new growth. This does not count as a dormancy period because the orchid plant continues to grow, but without putting energy into producing blooms. Most homeowners will experience new flowers from their orchid each and every year when its cycle returns to blooming.

Schedule

• Each species of orchid has its own unique blooming cycle. Research your specific type of orchid to learn which part of the year you should expect flowers. Some orchid species also require the removal of the dead flower spike if you want them to bloom again. Once the flower spike dries up and turns brown, remove it carefully with a pair of scissors. Keep an eye on temperatures, too. Keep temperatures between 60 and 65 degrees F. at night and between 65 and 75 degrees during the day.

No Blooming

• Despite long periods dedicated to new growth, your orchid may not be blooming because certain important conditions are not being met. Orchids require a good deal of light, but direct sunlight can harm these delicate plants. Orchids also have a fussy blooming schedule. Many species will bloom in their first year but then skip the blooming part of the cycle during their second year of life. Older orchids bloom on a more predictable schedule than younger ones, so be patient.

Don'ts

• If your orchid is in a non-blooming stage, do not attempt to coax it into producing flowers. The time may simply not be right for the plant to bloom. Adding extra fertilizer and water won't force the plant to bloom any sooner. In fact, you are more likely to damage your orchid rather than see new blooms. Patience is the key when waiting for your new flowers.