Orchid Care Guide

Orchid Care Guide

Orchids are among the most elegant and rewarding houseplants. The most common indoor variety, the Phalaenopsis (moth orchid), is surprisingly easy to care for and can rebloom year after year with the right conditions.

Light

Orchids prefer bright indirect light. An east or west-facing windowsill is ideal. Avoid direct midday sun, which scorches the leaves. Healthy leaves should be bright green — dark green indicates too little light; yellowish-green means too much.

Watering

Water thoroughly once a week during the growing season, allowing water to drain completely. Never let orchids sit in standing water — this causes root rot. The roots should appear silvery-white when dry and green when moist. Reduce watering slightly in winter.

Humidity

Orchids prefer humidity of 50–70%. Use a pebble tray with water beneath the pot (not touching the roots) or a humidifier nearby. Good air circulation is equally important to prevent fungal issues.

Temperature

Phalaenopsis orchids prefer temperatures between 65–85°F (18–29°C) during the day and slightly cooler at night. A brief cool period (55–60°F) in fall can help trigger reblooming.

Potting Medium

Orchids should be potted in a specialized orchid bark mix, not regular potting soil. This allows air to reach the roots. Repot every 1–2 years or when the bark breaks down.

Fertilizing

Feed weekly with a diluted orchid fertilizer ("weakly, weekly") during the growing season. Flush the pot with plain water monthly to prevent salt buildup. Reduce feeding in winter.

Encouraging Reblooming

After blooms drop, cut the spike just above a node (the small bump on the stem). Keep the plant in bright light with a slight temperature drop at night. New buds should appear within 2–3 months.

Common Issues

• Yellow leaves: Too much direct sun or overwatering.
• Wrinkled leaves: Underwatering or root rot — check roots.
• No reblooming: Needs more light or a cooler night temperature.
• Root rot: Brown, mushy roots from overwatering — trim and repot in fresh bark.

Propagation

Phalaenopsis orchids occasionally produce keikis (baby plants) on the flower spike. Once the keiki has developed roots of at least 2 inches, it can be carefully removed and potted separately.