In order to prevent this tragedy from happening, we co-authored with Ken Siew (an experienced orchid hobbyist and professional orchid grower) and created this blog post, hopefully it helps you avoid the deadly mistakes and enables you to grow your orchids healthily and have beautiful blooms. It is well known that orchids are shade loving plants and you shouldn’t let them be exposed to too much sunlight. The harm to an orchid is huge when exposed directly under the fierce sunshine in hot summer. For example, phals (one of the fastest growers in the orchid family) grow best under indirect sunlight and it’s best to place them in a south or east-facing window and indentify which provides your orchid with the right amount of sunlight. You can observe its leaves. The ultimate solution is to put your orchid in a shade house or glasshouse, but which one is the right solution for shade protection? The simplest form of orchid housing is usually a shade/bush house which provides shading from the top and sides. A shade house reduces sunlight to produce light intensities that make it closer to the ideal temperature for tolerant plants such as cymbidium orchids. The shading environment reduces the heat associated with sunlight, depending on the type of shade material used. This shade material will also decrease some of the airflow. It is possible to use certain materials such as shade cloth to expand the range of plants grown under these conditions beyond cymbidiums and other simple-to-grow orchids. An increase of shade and humidity alone will allow successful culture of cold tolerant “softer” plants such as oncidium and paphiopedilum. It is possible to create microclimates within a single structure to expand the housing for a wider variety of orchids. The use of solid, transparent, non-porous materials such as UV-stabilised fibre coverings or glass to replace some, or all of the shade cloth, either seasonally or permanently, will allow a great many more varieties of plants to be grown. A solid roof that provides protection from the rainy season is almost mandatory so flowers can be kept perfect. Aairtight glasshouse allows the space to be heated efficiently, but usually it is not economical heating a space unless it is sufficiently large, waterproofed and well-insulated. You can learn “The difference between shade house and glasshouse” from the article here Shade cloth is usually supported by a frame to provide shading for orchids from above. It is made in different grades which allows for optimal shading for different orchid species. The presence of trees or buildings on one or more sides of the growing house would dictate that those sides affected may need less shading. Learn “How to choose the right shade cloth that will make a difference to your plants” by clicking here With the options provided above for shading, you can prevent your orchids from being destroyed by the sun and rain if you: One mistake that beginner orchid growers often make is excessive watering. Beginners can be over enthusiastic in terms of overwatering their plants. For instance, phalaenopsis orchids only require a limited amount of water to survive and grow, and they are more than likely to experience problems such as root rot when overwatered. Therefore, only water your orchid with three cubes of ice each week, or equivalent to 1/4 cup of water. You can learn “when and how to water your orchids” from the article here Almost all orchids appreciate high humidity, so when there isn’t enough humidity in thegrowing environment, some severe damage maybe caused to an orchid. Humidity is determined by how much moisture is put into the structure versus how quickly it dissipates from it. It is a consequence of frequency and volume of watering or misting as well as air flow between the inside and outside. Humidity is also the most under estimated variable for a successful culture. The vast majority of orchid species derive from the temperate belt around the equator where humidity is highest. Species which derive from higher altitudes can be sufficiently tolerant of cold and able to be grown outside their native zone but for best success, humidity of the ambient air needs to be addressed. The ambient conditions such as temperature and dryness of the air outside the growing structure are important. If the humidity is high and temperatures are dropping, condensation will result. Condensation on flowers may cause damage so it is essential that misting be done early in the day rather than late. Plants such as the Oncidiinae, the Vandaceous group and Paphiopedilums often are cold tolerant but can languish if the humidity is not improved. The ideal humidity for most of these plants, and indeed most orchid plants is from 60-80% and possibly more during hot seasons. Humidity is controlled by air-flow and watering. The simple expedient of blocking off some of the air flow, even if on one side of the growing structure, will instantly result in higher humidity. Ambient humidity is generally below the ideal for orchids in most areas of Australia except for the far North. The higher humidity of enclosed or partially enclosed structures means there is fewer requirements for watering and that watering or misting results in a more persistent elevation of ambient humidity around the plants. If you are living in an area that has low humidity, providing artificial humidity for your orchid is one of the most important methods to keep them healthy. Adjusting humidity could be accomplished by misting your plant from time to time, by placing a humidity tray underneath its pot and controlling the air flow into the orchid growing structure. A balance between light, heat and humidity has to be achieved for optimal culture. When it is imbalanced, the growing environment for orchids needs some improvement. Heat and Humidity: Closing up the growing space restricts airflow and increases humidity and temperature. Humidity can be increased with frequency of watering or misting but unless some containment of the humidity is provided, it is lost quickly if the outside air is hot and dry. Temperatures can rise quickly in a glasshouse when in full sunlight if no cool air replaces the heated air within. For this reason, most hobby growers ventilate their glasshouses during daylight and close them up at sunset, in all but the coldest climates. Heat and Light: They are inextricably linked to each other and are largely controlled by shading and controlling airflow. Generally speaking, orchids are light-hungry plants and should get 12 to 14 hours of light everyday throughout the year. Natural light always comes with heat, however, in the tropical area, the duration and intensity of natural light does not change as frequently as it does in temperate climates. Therefore, you may have to move your orchids around, by placing theminside or outside of a shade house or alternativelyprovide the orchids with artificial light to keep them happy in winter. Some orchids require a huge amount of light, such as vandas and cymbidiums (high-intensity discharge lighting is usually required in order for them to flower). The ideal spot for growing orchids is either south or east-facing windows. Usually west windows are too hot while northern windows are too dark. Placing orchids under artificial lights is the last resort if you can’t find a good location to grow your orchids. Heat and Air-flow: The temperature of the interior of the growing house can be stabilised (less rapid changes of temperature) by decreasing airflow. The reduction of airflow will also minimise “wind-chill” (i.e. forced evaporation by moving air). It should be remembered that air-flow is important during photosynthesis and that during daylight hours sufficient moving air be provided. Heat, humidity, light and air flow share close relationships with each other. In order to have a better performance in a orchid’s growth, each of them has to reach a certain level so they can be balanced to create a optimal growing environment for your orchids. Using soil to grow an orchid is a mistake made by beginners that can kill the plants. Planting materials for orchids is not the same with planting materials for houseplants. They should drain rapidly and allow good air circulation at the roots. Experienced orchid hobbyists usually use a various range of materials such as bark chips, spaghnum moss, coconut husks and styrofoam to replace potting soil. For example, phalaenopsis orchids grow on trees when they are in their natural habitat, and therefore, they should not be planted in soil. Potting medium like tree bark, cork, or coconut shreds that allows sufficient air circulation around their roots suit phalaenopsis orchids the best. To choose the right potting mix to grow your orchids, you can learn more from this article Growing orchid’s in-door is quite different from growing other house plants, but it is not as difficult as you may think. Everyone makes mistake, but you can save your plants and learn from other people’s “deadly” mistakes by picking the right combination of shade structure to avoid excessive sunshine, control watering, adjust humidity level, balance heat, humidity, light, air flow and choosing the right potting mix for your orchids. Don’t give up after failing the first time in growing orchids, be persistent and experiment with the above in trying to look after your orchids, and I am sure that all your effort and investment will pay off. Related articles:
There is no doubt that orchid hobbyists cherish their orchids by taking care of them carefully. However, newbie orchid growers usually make some mistakes in the learning process which can be disastrous and kill off precious orchids.1. Exposure to too much sunlight
Shade House and Glasshouse
Shade Cloth
In a nutshell
2. Over Watering
3. Insufficient Humidity
In a nutshell
4. Imbalanced Heat, Humidity, Light and Air Flow
In a nutshell
5. Planting orchids in wrong potting materials
In conclusion
FAQs
Can orchids grow in doors? ›
They are perfect for indoors, since they can tolerate lower light. They do not like to stay dry for more than a day or two, especially when growing or blooming.
How do you care for an indoor orchid for beginners? ›Being tropical plants, orchids prefer warm temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid drafts, cold spaces, rooms with sudden temperature drops and hot air vents. Orchids flourish in air that is 50 percent humidity or above. They can do well in moist places such as by a kitchen window.
Where is the best place to put an orchid in your house? ›An east or south facing window provides bright enough light for growing orchids. South and east-facing windows work best for orchids. West_windows can be too hot in the afternoon and north-facing ones are usually too dark. A sheer curtain will cast light shade.
How do you grow orchids in doors? ›East-facing windowsills are great spots for orchids. An unscreened south-facing window can be a little too bright and hot, but a sheer curtain can add just the right amount of filtering. You can also set the orchid away from the window by a few feet so it's not constantly in strong, indirect light.
What conditions do indoor orchids like? ›Most houseplant orchids like bright light, but not direct sun, such as on a north- or east-facing windowsill. They like regular watering and misting, preferably with rainwater or boiled water rather than tap water. Many need to be grown in bark-based orchid compost, rather than traditional houseplant compost.
How do you tell if your orchid is doing well? ›- Orchid leaves are thick and rubbery.
- Leaves are uniformly green, and not mottled.
- Colors in the blooms are robust.
- Aerial roots are white and have green shiny tips. Longer green tips indicate better health.
- Potting mix is barely moist, and not bone dry or soaking wet.
Watering too often: Orchid plants should never be allowed to sit in still water. In many cases, the plant should completely dry between waterings. Watering at night: No matter what kind of orchid you grow, always water in the morning.
How many times do you water an indoor orchid? ›In general, water once a week during the winter and twice a week when the weather turns warm and dry. The size of your orchid container also helps determine how often you need to water, regardless of climate conditions. Typically, a 6-inch pot needs water every 7 days and a 4-inch pot needs water every 5 to 6 days.
Do orchids like warm or cold room? ›Orchids prefer daytime temperatures of 75 °F or more and nighttime temperatures of 65 °F or more. In wintertime, this is not always practical to achieve temperatures quite this warm; however, efforts need to be made to not allow blooming orchids to be exposed to temperatures significantly colder than this.
Do orchids like to be in a window? ›Orchids thrive in the sunshine, and the living room tends to get the most sunlight in your home. Indirect sunlight is best. So one of the best places to keep your orchid is near a north- or east-facing window.
How long does a house orchid last? ›
Typically, orchids live for 20-25 years if grown indoors, though the life span of an orchid plant surely depends on how attentive its grower is and how well it's cared for.
What is the secret to growing orchids? ›Lots of indirect Sunlight
Light is the key element to growing amazing orchids and getting them to bloom year after year. They like a lot of indirect light. Find a spot near a sunny window, even on the windowsill. If it's direct light, morning light is best, but any sunny window should do.
Orchids are tropical plants that love humidity, and they won't take up much space in your bathroom. They tolerate low light but they thrive best in bright, indirect sunlight, so they'll like it best on your bathroom windowsill.
How do I get my indoor orchid to rebloom? ›- Continue to water your orchid with 3 ice cubes once a week. ...
- Fertilize your orchid once or twice a month using a balanced houseplant fertilizer at half strength. ...
- Help your orchids grow by providing plenty of indirect sunlight.
- Put your orchid in a cooler spot at night.
Healthy Air Roots for Optimal Orchid Plant Care
You should definitely not remove healthy air roots. There's a good chance you can harm your plant. You could even introduce a dangerous virus. In homes with low humidity, air roots can turn yellow and shrivel.
To achieve blooms, it requires 5 to 6 hours of light per day. Move it outside in the summer, and water copiously.
How long do potted orchids last? ›In the wild, orchids are able to live about 20 years, depending on the type of orchid and the environment. Potted orchids do not have quite the same life span, but with proper care, it is not usual for orchids to live for between 10 to 15 years.
Do you water orchids from the top or bottom? ›To master watering orchids, it is essential to water from above with fresh, pure water. For orchids with water storage, pseudobulbs, water when the potting mix is approaching dry.
Can orchids live inside without sunlight? ›Unfortunately, no. An orchid kept in low lighting won't thrive, and you may start to see the leaves darken and wilt over time because they aren't receiving enough sun to keep the plant's energy levels up.
Should I mist my indoor orchid? ›There is simply no need to mist orchids, as watering normally will result in the plant getting plenty of water. The best way to water orchids, particularly phalaenopsis orchids, which are the most popular variety in our homes, is to water thoroughly but infrequently.
What should you not do with an orchid? ›
- Overwater them. The roots of an orchid are part of the lungs: the plant breathes through these so-called aerial roots. ...
- Pour water on the crown. ...
- Plant them in regular soil. ...
- Place them in direct sunlight. ...
- Spray water on the flowers.
Signs of Unhealthy Orchid Leaves
An orchid with root rot will have brown/mushy roots while healthy roots will be plump and green. Very dark green leaves: Your orchid is not getting enough light. Move it to a place where it receives plenty of bright, indirect sunlight.
Overall, the most common reason that orchids fail to bloom is insufficient light. The Phalaenopsis and Paphiopedilum orchids are usually happy with the filtered light in a windowsill but many other varieties need more light than that.
Do orchids like coffee grounds? ›Coffee grounds are an excellent fertilizer, especially for orchids and African violets.
What time of day should you water orchids? ›Water your orchid early in the morning. This insures complete water evaporation on the foliage as well as the crown by nightfall. If your home is very warm or has low humidity you will most likely need to water more often. The best place to water your plant is in the kitchen sink.
How do I know when my orchid needs water? ›- Roots are green = the plant is getting just the right amount of water.
- Roots are soggy and brown = ease up, it's getting too much water.
- Roots are grey or white = your plant is thirsty and needs more water.
Should I remove yellow leaves from the orchid? There's no harm in leaving yellowing leaves on your orchid. Eventually, the leaf will simply shrivel up and drop from the plant. Often, a new leaf will take its place.
How many ice cubes do you water orchids? ›The recommendation from the university studies is to start with three ice cubes a week and keep an eye on your plant to see if this seems like enough water. Taking a peek at the roots is an easy way to tell. "Roots that are silvery need moisture, whereas roots that are vibrant green are fully hydrated," says Boonekamp.
How long should orchids sit in water? ›Soak for about 10 minutes to saturate. Allow the water to drain out completely; orchids like a good soak but don't tolerate sitting in water. Uneven watering will result in shallow or uneven root growth. After you have watered your orchid, feel the weight of the container; it will be heavy.
How do I get my orchid to grow a new stem? ›- Give it enough water, but you should allow it to dry out completely before the next watering. ...
- Make sure that it is in a room with around 50 to 70% humidity. ...
- Fertilize your orchids weekly if there are new growths, then taper off as the plant matures.
Do orchids like showers? ›
Orchids, tillandsias and bromeliads are epiphytes, plants that grow without soil. Many of these come from humid tropical rainforests and grow high in the canopy of trees. A steamy shower with natural light can be an ideal environment for these kinds of plants.
Do orchids like fans? ›Orchids like air movement. Indoors, an overhead paddle fan set on the slowest speed or a small oscillating fan set to face AWAY from your plants may provide adequate air movement. Air movement at night is just as important as air movement during the daytime so fans should run continuously.
Do orchids like morning or afternoon sun? ›Orchids require different light then normal house plants. They do not require the kind of bright direct sunshine that, let's say, a tomato plant does. Orchids do well with indirect morning or evening sun but never direct hot sun in the middle of the day.
Do orchids like to hang? ›Orchids are epiphytic plants that can grow high up off the soil surface on the bark of a tree, which means that they are amenable to hanging from a ceiling or wall planter. Hanging orchids can save space in your garden and create vertical interest.
Is it OK to leave orchids in the Rain? ›Too much moisture will encourage fungal growth, so do not keep your orchid outdoors during a rainstorm. You can, however, bring your orchid out after a storm so it can soak up the residual moisture in the air.
Do orchids rebloom on old stems? ›Of all of the more commonly available orchids, only Phalaenopsis (the moth orchid) will re-bloom from its old spike. Phalaenopsis will generally re-bloom given a little extra care.
What month do orchids lose their flowers? ›Phalaenopsis orchids bloom in the late winter through the spring. In late June and July the Phalaenopsis orchids in our collection finally lose their blooms, some will remain in bloom for awhile longer. The ideal time to repot orchids is when they go out of bloom and Phalaenopsis is no exception.
How can you tell how old an orchid is? ›Orchid owners can tell if leaves are older by checking to see if new roots are emerging from the stem where the leaves once occurred. Those roots will eventually form a mass of roots that will be visible.
What triggers an orchid to bloom? ›While there are many factors that can trigger blooming in orchids; a drop in night temperature, increase or decrease in day length and even sharp restriction in water availability, none of these will be successful unless your orchids have been grown with adequate light.
Does sugar help orchids grow? ›Soaking them in sugar water (1 Tbsp of sugar in 1 liter of water) will help. Since pot size should be chosen based on root mass, a too-large or too-small pot could also be at the “root” of the problem. Plants may be nursed for a few months in sphagnum moss to encourage new roots, and then repotted in new media.
How do you grow a perfect orchid? ›
These plants thrive in strong light, but not direct late-afternoon sunlight (although dendrobiums can handle more sun). They also need high humidity and airflow around the roots. They need regular periods of drying alternated with heavy watering. Orchids do best in temperatures above 50 degrees but below 85 degrees.
Do orchids like pots with holes? ›An orchid should ideally live and grow in a plastic or terra-cotta grow pot. "Pots for growing orchids must have drainage holes or slits in the container to ensure your plant doesn't get soggy, wet feet," says Turner.
Do orchids like tap water? ›Regular tap water is fine, as long as it isn't softened with salts. Room temperature water is best, but you can water your orchid with ice cubes without harming the plant. About once a week, place up to three ice cubes on top of the potting medium, preferably where the cubes don't touch the leaves.
Do orchids like tea bags? ›Because orchids aren't potted in soil, they need nitrogen for optimal health. Orchid fertilizer and all-purpose flower fertilizer will contain the necessary nitrogen. Another high-nitrogen option for fertilizer is tea bags. With this option, you just open the bag and spread the contents in the potting media.
Where do you cut orchid stems after flowers fall off? ›Trim 1 inch above that node, or bump, on the orchid spike. For unhealthy, brown spikes: Cut all the way back to the base of the plant. For double-spike orchids: Cut one spike at the base of the plant. Cut the other spike 1 inch above the node under the lowest flower bloom.
How can I make an orchid bloom last longer? ›Orchid blooms last a long time, usually from six to ten weeks. To maintain bloom for as long as possible, increase sunlight, fertilize weekly, avoid overwatering, and take care to keep the flowers dry. It is important to maintain the right kind of light whether it is bright, indirect or filtered.
How many times will a orchid rebloom? ›Orchid Facts
Most orchids bloom once a year, but if they are really happy, they may bloom more often. If you want an orchid that blooms during a particular season, the best bet is to purchase a plant that is in bloom at that time. When an orchid does flower it usually remains in bloom for six to ten weeks.
Orchids not only absorb carbon dioxide but they release oxygen at night, which make them ideal for bedrooms.
Is it healthy to keep orchids in a bedroom? ›While you sleep (or attempting to nod off), orchids are doing what they do best every day: naturally absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Having a little oxygen producer in your bedroom is a great thing.
Do indoor orchids attract bugs? ›Insects typically don't bother indoor orchids, but stink bugs sometimes enjoy feeding on these plants. The pests are particularly attracted to moth orchids (Phalaenopsis spp.), which also grow outdoors in U.S. Department of Agriculture plant hardiness zones 10 and 11.
Can you grow orchids in a hot house? ›
Most orchids prefer warm temperatures, but make sure to check individual orchid requirements since some prefer cooler climates. Generally, you should adjust your greenhouse temperature to around 60-80 °F (16-27 °C) in the daytime and 45-65°F (7-18 °C).
Do orchids like being in a bathroom? ›Orchids are tropical plants that love humidity, and they won't take up much space in your bathroom. They tolerate low light but they thrive best in bright, indirect sunlight, so they'll like it best on your bathroom windowsill.
Do orchids like to be touched? ›Unopened buds are the most sensitive parts of an orchid, and unsanitary handling can be one of the main causes of orchid viruses. First know there is no real reason or need to touch unopened orchid buds. However, if you must touch, make sure to thoroughly wash with soap and warm water before handling your plant.
Do orchids attract co*ckroaches? ›Roaches enter orchid pots through drainage holes. Outdoor plants are especially vulnerable, particularly if kept on the ground. Roaches are nocturnal feeders, so their presence is usually noticed only after plant damage (nibbled flowers, root tips and roots and new growth) has occurred.
How do you make sure your orchid does not get spiders? ›Kill spider mites with any combination of soap and water, vegetable oil, or a mixture of dish soap and rubbing alcohol. Spray or wipe these treatments onto your leaves once a week for at least three weeks to ensure you eliminate all the pests.
What insect do orchids trick? ›Orchids have adapted the shape of their flowers to attract pollinating wasps. These flowering plants lure male insect pollinators by producing chemicals that mimic the pheromones of their female counterparts, but the effect of flower shape on pollinators has been unclear.
What temperature will damage orchids? ›While most orchids don't want temperatures below 50° – 60° F/ 10°-15° C, cold damage isn't likely to occur unless water on the leaves freeze. This occurs when temperatures plummet down below 30° F/0° C.
How do you get an orchid to bloom again? ›- Give Your Orchid The Right Amount Of Sunlight.
- Water Correctly.
- Maintain High Humidity.
- Keep Temperatures High.
- Ensure The Roots Have Enough Oxygen.
- Fertilize Regularly.
- Repot At The Right Time.
- Perform Post-Flowering Maintenance.