Orchids Light Requirements

Too Little Light

• A healthy orchid will have light green, slightly shiny leaves that are full and hold their own weight. The easiest way to recognize an orchid lacking sunlight is by examining the leaves. If they seem dull and have a dark green color, they likely are not getting enough sunlight. Droopy leaves are an indication as well. Beyond the leaves, an orchid that is not blooming is probably not receiving enough sunlight. Inadequate photosynthesizing activity will leave your orchid with little energy with which to produce blooms. Orchid roots are usually visible to a degree above the soil. If roots seem stunted or thin, this is an indicator that the plant is not receiving enough light.

Too Much Light

• Just as with low light, leaf color is the best indicator for orchids receiving too much light. In some species, leaves may turn red. More commonly, yellow spots will begin to appear on the leaf. These spots can become brown and spread, eventually turning the entire leaf black. These black leaves are dead and will fall off. Leaves may also turn yellow entirely and then fall off. If the orchid leaves are hot to the touch, your orchid is receiving too much light.

Changing Lighting

• Fortunately, orchids are relatively small plants and are usually grown in pots. Most lighting problems can be solved by simply moving orchids to a sunnier or shadier spot. It should be noted that orchids usually don't fare well in direct sunlight or direct shade. If you do not want to move your orchid, changing the environment is also an option. If your orchid is by a window with thick drapes, purchase sheer drapes that let filtered sunlight through. The same drapes can be used if your orchid is receiving too much sunlight and you do not have drapes across the window.

Artificial Lighting

• An almost foolproof way to ensure that your orchid is receiving the proper amount of light is to use artificial lighting. Make sure that the bulb you are using produces primarily red and blue wavelengths, as this is the light that plants absorb and use for energy. Plain incandescent lights will work fine for orchids. Be sure to place the orchid at least 2 feet away from the grow light. Leave the light on 14 to 16 hours a day. Though not necessary, you may achieve better results if you leave the bulb on only 12 to 14 hours a day during the winter.