Some of the less common orchid varieties have different needs for light exposure. For instance, lady’s-slippers (Paphiopedilums) and Miltonias dislike direct light. A north facing window is a great spot for these orchid types. Cattleyas, Dendrobiums, Oncidiums and cymbidiums, on the other hand, need a lot of sun exposure to thrive. A south or west-facing window is better for these species. [3] X Research source
Make sure that there are drainage holes in your orchid’s pot. Orchids do not grow well when they sit in water. Water your orchid early in the morning. [5] X Research source Avoid overwatering your orchid. Most orchids only need about a shot glass full of water—about 2 fl oz (59 ml)—a week. Most indoor orchids should be watered every 5 to 12 days, depending on the species and season:[6] X Research source Vanda and Ascocenda have the same watering needs as the Phalaenopsis orchid. Paphiopedilum, Miltonia, Cymbidium and Odontoglossum varieties like to be kept evenly moist at all times. Cattleya, Oncidium, Brassia and Dendrobium varieties like to be kept evenly moist during periods of active growth. At all other times, they prefer to be kept dry between waterings.
Consider getting a humidifier for the winter months. You can also buy special trays at most nurseries that can help you create humidity around the orchid. However do not place the orchid in a bathroom as this will be too much moisture. Make sure it’s on a windowsill that gets plenty of light, but not direct sunlight. [9] X Research source
There are sizes and shapes available to fit any space in your home. You can adjust the lighting to meet the needs of your particular orchid species.
Some types of orchid food are granulated or dry. You must dissolve this kind of fertilizer in water before using. Dry orchid food is highly concentrated. Never use it directly on the plant. Once the granulated orchid food has been dissolved in water, pour it directly on the plant.
Read the instructions for your particular orchid food carefully, since they may vary slightly from product to product. Make sure you fertilize just after the flowers fade to stimulate additional blooms. Fertilize again when new leaves or shoots appear and begin growing.
One to two weeks of nightly temperature drops will usually trigger an orchid to bloom, as long as it’s the right time of their growth cycle. For Phalaenopsis orchids, provide night temperatures of 60°F (15. 5°C) and day temperatures of 80°F (25°C).
The Phalaenopsis orchid usually blooms once every year. The blooms can last for several months. When the flowers fall off, a few more flowers might bloom from the same spike, but not always.
You will probably need to filter the light with a shade or curtain if you put a Phalaenopsis in a south-facing window. Moth orchids like a lot of light, but not direct light. [18] X Research source
Increase watering when you see new shoots and roots appear on your orchid. Too much water can kill an orchid quickly. Never allow your orchid to sit in a soggy, water-logged pot. [20] X Research source
Without adequate air circulation and drainage provided by an appropriate potting material, an orchid will suffocate and die. Most orchids will also grow in peat moss, dried fern roots, sphagnum moss, rock wool, perlite, cork nuggets, stones, coconut fiber, lava rock or a blend that combines several of these materials.
