How Long Will Bloomed Orchids Last?

Long Bloomers

• Several types of orchids used as houseplants will bloom for months. The Phalaenopsis, for example, is quite common and even sold in grocery stores. It resembles a floating butterfly, with spikes covered in blooms that last six to 12 weeks. The spike matures in increments, so the flowers at the base begin to wither as new buds open at the tip. Another long-lasting bloomer is the Dendrobium orchid, which blooms for eight to 10 weeks. Oncidiums and Brassias are other examples, blooming for six to eight weeks.

Repeat Bloomers

• Some types of orchids are repeat bloomers. The ladyslipper orchid's individual flowers last four to six weeks, but it will bloom again on the same spike, sometimes for months. The spike should be left on the plant until it is completely bare and turns brown. At that point, cut it back to where it emerged from the orchid.

Short Bloomers

• Cattleya orchids are the ones most often associated with the name. These big, ruffled flowers often are used for wedding and prom corsages. When potted, their showy blooms don't last as long as many other orchids. The flowers survive for about three weeks. Many genera of orchids, including some that grow wild, have short-lived flowers that last only for one to two days.

Care

• A few tricks can lengthen the bloom time of an orchid. Keep it in a sunny spot and water it with a bloom-enhancing fertilizer. Don't mist the flowers or apply any water to them. This promotes the growth of fungus that can discolor petals and shorten lifespan. Don't over-water the orchid when it is in bloom. Its water needs remain the same as when not in bloom. Keep the orchid in a humid environment. The air on or near a heating or air-conditioning vent is too dry for an orchid.