How to Nurse a Dying Orchid

Research the variety of orchid you own. Although many orchids need six to eight hours of daily sunlight, too much or too little light can adversely affect their appearance and overall health. Correct the plant's environment as needed.

Evaluate the temperature and amount of humidity in the growing area. If nighttime temperatures fall into the 60s Fahrenheit, provide a heat source to raise it into the 70s. If the humidity is below 50 percent, consider adding a humidifier in the room.

Cut off all spent flower spikes and leaves that have turned yellow or brown. Use clean, sharp clippers and cut all dead parts back to the main stem or base of the plant. To prevent disease, wipe the blades of your clippers with a clean rag soaked in isopropyl alcohol.

Repot your orchid in fresh orchid bark and a clean pot. Examine the roots for signs of rotting---unhealthy roots are spongy and dark, while healthy roots are pale and springy. Cut off all unhealthy roots and discard.

Fertilize your orchid two to four weeks after you repot it, using a plant food designed for orchids. Continue feeding your orchid on a regular basis according to product instructions.