How Much Sun Do You Give to an Orchid?

Brightness

• While orchids appreciate bright light, they typically grow in canopied rain forests and similar areas where their direct sunlight exposure is limited. In a home environment, they need lots of light, without the scorching heat of direct sunshine that can sometimes burn them. Washington State University recommends placing them on an east- or west-facing windowsill.

Considering Species

• Orchids are not identical in their light requirements. Taking into consideration the species you have will ensure your orchid's health. For instance, Paphiopedilum and Phalaenopsis orchids -- also known as moth orchids -- prefer shady environments with low light levels. A windowsill that receives bright but dappled light through an outdoor tree will mimic natural conditions and keep them from scorching. On the other hand, species such as Cymbidium and Cattleya need more intense light in a bright, open windowsill.

Duration

• Most orchids need a minimum of six hours of light per day, with some preferring 12 to 16 hours a day. The American Orchid Society emphasizes that quality is more important than quantity. Some orchids -- such as the moth orchid -- flower regardless of how long a day is. Typically, your standard daylight hours are fine, even as they shorten in winter months. If you're worried about short days or want to encourage winter flowering when outside light is dim, you can supplement natural light with fluorescent lights hovering 6 to 8 inches over the orchid.

Expert Tips

• You'll know your orchid is receiving enough sunlight when its foliage is light green-yellow, not grassy green. To check light levels, the American Orchid Society recommends raising your hand to the light and seeing if it casts a shadow; a faint shadow indicates sufficient sunlight for low light orchids, while a dark, dramatic shadow indicates plenty of light for orchids that need lots of light. And if you're worried about a window receiving scorching direct sunlight -- a common problem with south-facing windows -- hang a sheer curtain to protect your orchid from burning, as horticulture expert Richard Jauron suggests on the Iowa State University website.