How to Grow Butterfly Orchids

Place the butterfly orchid by an east-facing window. Butterfly orchids do not require a lot of light and their leaves may burn if they receive too much sun. Monitor the leaves making sure they are light-green in color. If they are dark-green, the orchid is not receiving enough light and can be moved to a room with filtered sunlight.

Provide humid conditions for the butterfly orchid. According to the University of Tennessee Extension, orchids in the Phalaenopsis family need 60 to 70 percent humidity. Set the orchid on a gravel-filled tray with just enough water so that the bottom of the flower pot never touches the water.

Water the butterfly orchid with lukewarm water until it runs freely from the drainage holes. The orchid should be watered when the potting medium is nearly dry. Monitor the soil during the summer months for the butterfly orchid may need water every other day.

Feed the orchid once a week with a balanced fertilizer, such as 10-10-10, diluted one-quarter of the amount stated on the manufacturer's label. You can also use an orchid fertilizer, which is already diluted. Water the orchid before sprinkling the fertilizer on top of the potting medium and water again with lukewarm water until it runs freely from the flower pot.

Repot the butterfly orchid every one to three years in the spring once the orchid has completed blooming. The University of Tennessee Extension recommends using a potting medium containing 60 percent medium fir bark, 20 percent perlite and 20 percent sphagnum moss. Rinse the old potting medium from the roots. Cut any dead or damaged roots and foliage before placing the orchid in a new pot that should be large enough to allow for growth.