Instructions on Caring for Orchids

Place orchids in an east-facing window or a south-facing window that is lightly shaded. West-facing windows may receive too much sunlight and heat during spring, summer and fall, causing the leaves to burn. Leaves on your orchid should be bright green. If they turn to a dark green color, the plant needs more sunlight. Move to a brighter window but provide protection from potential heat by using shear curtains.

Maintain room temperatures between 70 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit during the day. Nighttime temperatures should be between 55 and 60 F. Orchids tolerate temperatures as high as 100 F; although, higher temperatures require increased humidity, shading and air circulation.

Provide adequate humidity -- orchids thrive in humidity levels between 50 and 70 percent during the day. Achieve this by placing the orchid's pot into a shallow dish that contains pebbles and water. The water should not touch the bottom of the pot, which could damage the orchid's roots.

Fertilize plants with an orchid-specific formula approximately once a month, or in accordance with the directions on the package. Not fertilizing frequently enough may reduce flowering and inhibit plant growth. Overfertilizing orchids can also reduce flowering along with burning the roots.

Water orchids every five to 10 days. Soil moisture requirements vary between orchid types. Paphiopedilum, Odontoglossum, Cymbidium and Miltonia orchids should be kept moist constantly, but not wet. Dendrobium, Cattleya, Brassia and Oncidium orchids should be kept moist during the plant's active growth time; but these types can be allowed to dry out between waterings when the plant is not actively growing. Keep Phalaenopsis, Ascocenda and Vanda orchids nearly dry between waterings

Periodically examine the orchid for any evidence of damage from pests. Snails or slugs can hide in the potting mixture and chew on leaves, stems and root tips. Aphids and thrips damage buds and flowers. Mealybugs damage results in a white mass, while scale insects leave a black or brown crust on stems and leaves. Time-release pyrethrum insecticides and Neem oil are effective products to control orchid pests.