Adding houseplants or succulents to indoor spaces helps beautify indoor spaces. Orchids can adapt to homes with the proper sunlight and watering. Here’s what you need to know about taking care of orchids.

Growing Orchid Care Tips

Unlike most houseplants, orchids do not grow in soil. They are epiphytes. Planting them in soil, not proper bark, will damage the plant’s root system and not survive. Orchids absorb water and nutrients from the bark and moss - the roots attach themselves to it.

How To Water Orchids

Orchids need regular watering. Do not use ice cubes - it can damage the roots! You’ll want to use ¼ cup of water once a week. Let the water drain through the pot and remove excess water sitting in the saucer. Orchids are more forgiving for underwatering versus overwatering. 

How Much Sunlight Does An Orchid Need?

Orchids require at least five to six hours of sunlight. Avoid areas in your home that have bright direct sunlight for extended periods, which can cause sunburn (bleaching out leaves and flowers). They shouldn’t be placed in an area with direct afternoon sun.

• If your living space has inadequate light, you can purchase an indoor grow light and leave it for a few hours a day.
• If you notice your orchid is not flowering, it is likely due to a lack of sunlight. 
• Avoid windowsills near cold drafts or heat vents that can dry out the plants.

Orchids and Humidity 

Orchids are tropical plants and do appreciate some humidity in your home. Dry indoor air can be problematic for orchids, but it can easily be fixed by running a humidifier near your plant. 

Fertilizing Orchids

You can fertilize orchids in the spring to summer with a diluted 20-20-20 fertilizer once a week. If you have a variety of flowers in the winter, you can extend fertilizing into the autumn.

How Do You Get An Orchid To Bloom Again? 

After the first round of blooms, you can cut off the dead flower spike with sterile pruners and repot the plant every couple of years. Make sure you repot in a container with drainage holes or one that is specifically designed for orchids. You’ll also want to aim to have your orchid in a location that has a cooler temperature at night (5-10C less than day temperatures.), it will promote bountiful flowering. Proper sunlight and watering your orchid will produce blooms in a cycle.