Orchids are often stereotyped as being finicky plants that require the temperature and humidity extremes of a tropical rainforest. Although some orchids do grow under these conditions, most grow under normal household conditions. In general, there are seven basic cultural requirements for growing orchids. They are, alphabetically:

Air Circulation: In nature, orchids receive fresh air and gentle breezes daily. The hobbyist can duplicate this condition using a slow turning fan and avoiding air pollutants such as smoke.

Feeding: All orchids need some sort of fertilizer since plain water doesn’t contain many nutrients. The brand name of the fertilizer is not as important as what is contained in the bottle. A formulation that is high in Nitrogen will promote lots of leaves and roots but will do little to encourage flowering. On the other hand, a formulation that is either balanced or high in Phosphorus will be sending the right signals to the plant “to bloom” and the grower will not have to keep track of each plant’s individual blooming season. The plant would appreciate just water while the flowers are open. One additional note – orchid roots are quite sensitive and great care must be taken not to burn the root tips by over-fertilizing. Use ½ strength (or less) every few weeks. We recommend Grow More Orchid Bloom 6-30-30 – see our supplies page.

Humidity: Most orchids need humidity of at least 50%. This can easily be accomplished by placing the plant on a pebble tray that is partially filled with water. The pot must not sit in directly in water. Perhaps an easier technique is to use a special humidity tray that is periodically refilled with water. The top is grated so that many pots can sit on top but never get wet. We carry three sizes – see our supplies page.

Light: Cattleya, Dendrobium, and Oncidium orchids require filtered sunlight year round to grow and bloom well. Filtered sunlight is best described as direct south facing sunlight that has been filtered by blinds, a sheer curtain, or outside under a trellis. Paphiopedilum and Phalaenopsis orchids need indirect light year round which is, essentially, shade or no midday direct sunlight. The color of orchid leaves is usually a good indicator of the amount of light the plant is receiving. Dark green leaves often mean not enough light and very light green leaves too much light. In general, strive for medium green leaves. An easy test for light levels (without having to purchase a light meter) is to touch the leaves and if they are warm, then the plant is receiving too much sun.

Potting media: Cattleya, Dendrobium, and Oncidium orchids are epiphytic (grow on trees) and require an airy potting mixture. We have found that fir bark works well for mature Dendrobium and Cypress bark for mature Cattleya and Oncidium. Always put the bare rooted plant in the smallest clay pot that the roots will fit into, add the bark, then pack it tightly. A pot clip will be needed to secure the plant. Repotting will be needed again in another 2-3 years. Paphiopedilum orchids do well in a very fine fir bark mixture but must be repotted every 6 months to a year and grow best in plastic pots. Phalaenopsis grow like weeds (that’s good) when potted in a peat moss mixture and must be repotted every year after blooming. Once again, place the roots in the smallest clay pot they will fit into and add the peat moss,but do not pack it. The entire pot can then be placed into a decorative pot if desired. See our supplies page.

Temperature: Most orchids like temperatures of at least 60 degrees F but not over 90 degrees F. The high temperature can approach 100 degrees F if the plant is kept wet but the low temperature shouldn’t drop below 60. One notable exception: Phalaenopsis need a 2-3 week cooling period in the fall, with night temperatures in the mid-fifties to encourage flowering.

Watering: Cattleya, Dendrobium, and Oncidium orchids need a thorough watering once or twice a week. Pour water on top of the media long enough to allow water to run out the bottom. Roots may be spritzed with water on sunny morning to encourage growth. Paphiopedilum and Phalaenopsis orchids must never be allowed to dry out since they do not have pseudobulbs with which to hold water for periods of drought. Paphiopedilums can be watered several times a week. Phalaenopsis can be watered whenever the peat moss starts to look gray (dry) which is usually several times a week.

Pests: Like other houseplants, orchids occasionally attract unwanted pests. Common insects such as aphids, mealy bugs, mites, and scale (both brown and white) can be controlled with a pyrethrum–based spray such as Schultz Insect Spray. See our supplies page. For minor infestations, wipe off affected areas with alcohol and cotton swabs. Keeping the plant off the outside ground, scouting around at night, and repotting regularly can minimize slugs and snails.

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