Orchids

Light

Different types of orchids can be classified according to their light requirements:

Low light – north or east window; bright indirect light
Moderate light – east or west window; partial sun
High light – south window or sun room; full sun

Provide protection from hot afternoon sun during the summer with a sheer curtain, blind or shade cloth.

Water

When in doubt, do not water, and never allow a pot to sit in standing water
Try to water in the morning, and avoid wetting foliage as this can lead to disease
Specific moisture requirements vary by the type of orchid

Fertilizer

Fertilizer is necessary while plants are actively growing, typically in spring and summer
We recommend an orchid fertilizer such as Plant Prod Orchid 25-10-10; follow the package instructions
To fertilize, first water the plant thoroughly with plain water, then apply enough fertilizer solution to thoroughly wet the potting mix

Humidity

Orchids grow best with higher humidity of at least 60%, but most will adapt to lower humidity
In the winter, it is beneficial to run a humidifier if humidity islow
‘Humidity trays’ and misting are minimally effective

Repotting

Orchids require an open, well-drained potting mix that allows for plenty of air around the roots; traditional potting soils are not acceptable
Repot newly-purchased plants into a suitable orchid potting mix such as Orchiata as soon as blooming is finished
For most orchids, repotting every 2 years is recommended. Repot for the size of the rootball, not the size of the top growth; the pot should be no more than 1” wider all around than the rootball
Best time to repot is just as new growth is starting, usually in late winter/early spring
Clear plastic orchid pots or ceramic orchid pots are recommended

Reblooming

If your orchid fails to rebloom, it is usually due to one or more of the following reasons:

Lack of seasonal temperature changes; temperatures in winter should be at least 6ºC cooler than in summer
Lack of day/night temperature fluctuation; nights should be at least 5ºC cooler than days
Not enough light
Failure to meet moisture and fertilizer requirements; unhealthy roots and/or poor top growth

Types of Orchids

Cattleya

Magnificent, large, showy, often fragrant flowers. Blooms can appear at any time of year and last 2-5 weeks. High light and good humidity; allow potting mix to almost dry between watering during active growth (spring/summer) and water sparingly while resting (fall/winter). Cool, dry rest period and much light needed for flowering.

Cymbidium

Sprays of gorgeous flowers usually in winter to spring; the most commonly used orchid in floral arrangements. Blooms last 2 months or more; attractive sword-shaped foliage. High light and consistent moisture; grow outdoors in part shade from spring to fall. Cold fall temperatures needed for reblooming.

Dendrobium

(Nobile Hybrids)

Miltioniopsis

Large, showy, often fragrant, pansy-like flowers often appear twice per year, in spring and fall, lasting well over a month. Low to moderate light and good humidity; protect from hot sun. Keep potting mix moist but not wet; does not like hot temperatures.

Oncidium Intergenerics

Sprays of dainty flowers can appear at any time of year; sometimes fragrant. Moderate to high light; allow potting mix to dry slightly between waterings. Cooler, slightly drier winter conditions and good light aid in flowering.

Paphiopedilum

(Maudiae Hybrids)

Enchanting slipper-shaped flowers can appear at any time of year, lasting 6 weeks or more; low to moderate light; protect from hot sun. Allow potting mix to dry slightly between watering. Cooler night temperatures aid in flowering.

Phalaenopsis

The most popular orchid; arching stems of showy flowers can appear at any time of year, lasting 3 months or more. Low to moderate light; protect from hot sun. Allow potting mix to almost dry between watering. Cooler winter temperatures required for reblooming.