Best Dos and Don'ts for Growing Healthy Orchids

5 Dos and Don’ts Every Beginner Needs to Know to Grow Healthy Orchids

Orchids are beautiful and exotic flowers, but many beginners find them a bit tricky to care for.

Don’t worry - growing healthy orchids isn’t as hard as it seems once you know the basics.

With a few simple dos and don’ts, you’ll be on your way to enjoying vibrant, blooming orchids in no time.

In this beginner’s guide, we’ll cover the essential steps for proper orchid care, from watering and lighting to temperature and humidity.

Ready to keep your orchids thriving?

Let’s check out the 5 key dos and don’ts of orchid care.

Understanding Orchid Basics

Understanding Orchid Basics

Orchids are beautiful and exotic plants that can brighten any space, but they are different from many other houseplants. Understanding their basic needs makes caring for them much easier, especially for beginners:

  • Orchid Varieties and Their Features: There are thousands of orchid species, but some are better suited for beginners. Phalaenopsis, or Moth Orchids, are the most common and easy to care for. These orchids produce long-lasting blooms and adapt well to indoor conditions. Other popular types include Dendrobiums and Cymbidiums, each with unique shapes and colors.
  • How Orchids Grow: Unlike most plants, many orchids are epiphytes, which means they grow on trees in their natural habitat rather than in soil. Their thick roots absorb moisture and nutrients from the air, which is why they thrive in well-draining potting mixes like bark or sphagnum moss.
  • Light and Temperature Needs: Orchids prefer bright, indirect light and warm temperatures. Placing them near an east-facing window often provides the right balance. Avoid exposing them to direct sunlight, as it can scorch their delicate leaves.
  • Watering and Humidity Requirements: Orchids are sensitive to overwatering. Their roots need to dry out between waterings to prevent rot. They also enjoy high humidity levels, similar to their tropical origins, which can be achieved by misting or using a humidity tray.
  • Why Orchids Are Unique: What makes orchids stand out is their ability to bloom for weeks or even months. Their flowers are intricate and come in a wide range of colors and patterns, adding elegance to any room.

5 Dos

Orchids may seem delicate, but with the right care, they can thrive beautifully. Here are five crucial practices every beginner should follow to ensure vibrant and healthy orchids.

Provide It With Filtered Light

Orchids thrive in sunlight but prefer filtered light rather than direct exposure.

Place them near an east-facing window for morning light or provide dappled shade when outdoors.

Avoid harsh midday sun for the best results.

Water Sparingly

Water Sparingly

A well-draining potting mix is essential to prevent soggy roots, which orchids dislike.

Water sparingly, allowing the medium to approach dryness before rehydrating with room temperature water.

Humidity levels should be kept around 50-70%.

Orchids also benefit from a brief drying-out period between waterings.

Provide Ideal Temperature And Humidity

Being tropical plants, orchids thrive in consistent temperatures.

Ideal daytime temperatures should be between 65-75°F (18-24°C) and should not drop below 55°F (13°C) at night.

Maintaining humidity at around 60% is particularly important for indoor orchids.

Fertilize Properly

Orchids are light feeders, so avoid over-fertilization, which can lead to salt build-up and root damage.

Use a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to half-strength and apply it during the growing season to promote flowering.

Repot With Care

Repot With Care

Repotting orchids rejuvenates their growing medium and provides space for growth.

Orchids should be repotted every 1-2 years, using a specialized orchid mix that includes bark or sphagnum moss for aeration.

Be gentle when handling roots, removing any dead or rotting sections carefully.

5 Don’ts

While orchids are hardy in the right conditions, a few common mistakes can harm their growth. Steer clear of these five errors to keep your orchids flourishing.

Overwater

Orchids are prone to root rot when their roots remain constantly wet, so it's essential to strike a careful balance when watering.

Allow the medium to dry slightly between waterings, and ensure the pot has proper drainage to avoid waterlogged conditions.

Expose Them To Temperature Changes

Expose Them To Temperature Changes

These plants are sensitive to sudden temperature changes, so it's important to keep them away from drafts, heaters, air conditioners, or drafty windows.

Stable temperature conditions promote healthier growth and blooming.

Repot Unnecessary

While repotting is necessary for maintaining orchid health, avoid doing it too often.

Only repot when the growing medium has broken down or the orchid has outgrown its container, as frequent repotting can stress the plant.

Use Standard Potting Soil

Orchids dislike standard potting soil because it retains too much moisture, which can suffocate their roots.

Opt for a specialized orchid mix that provides good aeration and drainage.

The right growing medium is crucial to their well-being.

Panic Over Dropped Flowers

Panic Over Dropped Flowers

It’s natural for orchids to shed some flowers, so don't panic if you see a few dropping.

Trim the spike just above a healthy node to encourage new growth, as orchids often produce more flowers on the same spike.

FAQS

Check out these common questions and their answers to help you navigate the best care routines for your plants.

Why Are My Orchid Leaves Turning Yellow?

Yellowing leaves can be a sign of overwatering or underwatering.

If you notice yellow leaves, check the health of the roots, adjust your watering routine, and ensure proper drainage to prevent further issues.

Should I Mist My Orchid?

Should I Mist My Orchid?

Misting can be helpful in low humidity environments, but it’s important to use room temperature water.

Avoid leaving the orchid wet overnight to prevent fungal infections.

Can I Grow Orchids In Low Light?

Although orchids generally prefer bright, indirect light, some varieties can tolerate lower light conditions.

It’s possible to grow orchids in low-light environments, but be sure to choose varieties that thrive under the specific light levels available.

Why Is My Orchid Not Blooming?

Insufficient light, inadequate fertilization, or not providing a dormant period can prevent orchids from blooming.

To encourage flowering, ensure proper care with adequate light, regular fertilization during the growing season, and allow the plant to rest when necessary.

By following proper care guidelines and avoiding common mistakes, you create an environment where orchids can thrive.

With the right care, these resilient plants can live for up to 15 years, rewarding you with stunning flowers over time.

Kathy Batiste

Kathy Batiste

Creative Contributor & Home Decor Specialist

Expertise

Interior Decorating, Space Planning, Color Theory, Functional Design, Interior Styling, Aesthetic Enhancements, Room Layout Optimization, Trend Integration, Sustainable Design Solutions, Seasonal Decor Styling

Education

International Association of Professions Career College (IAP Career College)

  • Certificate: Interior Decorator Certificate
  • Focus: Principles and practical techniques in interior decorating, including space planning, color theory, and client consultations.

Kathy Batiste is a creative contributor at Velocity Art and Design. She earned her Interior Decorator Certificate from the International Association of Professions Career College, where she gained skills in space planning, color coordination, and creating personalized home designs.

With over 5 years of experience in interior decorating, Kathy focuses on designing rooms that are not only stylish but also functional. Her passion lies in helping others transform their homes into spaces that feel warm and uniquely their own.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *