This how-to-take care of orchids guide will ensure you can look after your precious orchids for a long time and even get them to repeat flower. They are relatively easy to care for but a little different from many other houseplants. They can flower for many months, so don't just throw them away after they have flowered once! All it takes is some knowledge and patience until it flowers again. Trust us, when they do bloom again - it's incredibly satisfying! You can even get them to flower over and over, living for many years.
Understand how orchids grow
It's helpful to consider how orchids grow in their natural environment. They are epiphytes meaning they don't grow in soil or compost, but they grow off the side of trees, holding onto the bark and taking nutrients and water from the air, meaning the tree supporting them doesn't get damaged. Some orchids grow in particular soil conditions, but this isn't usually needed for growing at home.
The proper water, light and soil requirements
Most importantly, orchids don't need much water at all. Too much water will kill them very quickly. Allow your orchid to dry out between each watering, once every two weeks is usually sufficient. When you water, allow the excess to drain out of the bottom of the pot and never leave them sitting in water. Stand them in bright but indirect lights. Sunlight directly on them will cause them to burn out, but they need a bright room to flower. Orchid bark is the best growing medium, and you can buy it ready-made.
Prune orchids for repeat flowering
Orchids can flower at least once a year, depending on the species, and they should also flower for many weeks. The most helpful thing to prolong flowering is keeping your orchid in the right conditions. After flowering, the stem can be cut back, and you will often see new growth, which can be staked upwards for flowering.
Get to know common pests and problems
- If you notice leaves shrivelling up, this suggests the orchid isn't being watered enough.
- If your orchid is generally struggling, this could mean you've overwatered. Check the roots and ensure there aren't any black/brown or squishy areas, and if there are, this could mean too much water or pests and diseases causing root rot. Remove the damaged roots, repot in new orchid bark and water only when the roots have dried out.
- Orchids don't tend to have many pests apart from more common pests such as aphids, mealybugs, and fungus gnats - all of which can be resolved with a spray of water or a mix of water and gentle washing up liquid.
We have some beautiful houseplants in store and accessories to keep them blooming. Visit us for a new year's treat.
