How to Grow Orchids Under Fluorescent Lights

Grow orchids in loose non-soil foundations that allow for quick drainage and full air circulation. Orchids will die in tight, thick or soggy foundations. Orchid potting mix, peat moss, fern matter, sphagnum peat moss or wood chips are good choices, as it non-soil potting mix.

Plant orchids in 3- to 6-inch pots with drainage holes. Make sure the pots are heavy enough to balance the orchid, as light pots will tip and damage the plant. Never grow an orchid in a pot that doesn't have a drainage hole, as orchids die in standing water.

Keep orchids indoors, in bright indirect sunlight or artificial light. Florescent, halogen or sodium lights can satisfy an orchid's lighting requirements. Place the orchid on a table or counter 4 to 6 feet under the lights. Keep the lights on for six to eight hours every day. Turn the lights off at night to mimic natural lighting.

Give the orchids 1 inch of water every seven to 10 days, and only when their growing foundation begins to dry. Orchids prefer dry foundations to wet ones and will rot in standing water or wet foundations.

Fertilize orchids with orchid-specific, water-soluble fertilizer once a month. Mix the fertilizer with water, per the directions on the package, and use it in one of the orchids' weekly waterings. Never mix the fertilizer stronger than the directions advise, as it will burn these sensitive plants.