Are Orchids Leafless In The Winter?

To determine if your orchid is still alive, research your specific orchid species and compare them before judging their fate. Longer dormant periods will have a more dramatic effect on the orchid’s health. White or yellow Vandas, as well as some Dendrobiums, are particularly cold sensitive and do not like temperatures below 60 F (16 C). They can be particularly prone to losing leaves during the winter months.

To care for your orchid in winter, bring it into a warm, humidified room, place it in front of indirect sunlight, water it twice a month, and fertilize once. Most orchids drop leaves as they produce new growth, and some may lose a few leaves after blooming. If leaf loss is substantial or new leaves are falling off, it’s time to do some pruning.

When preparing your orchid for winter, inspect it thoroughly for pests and weeds. If an orchid suffers winter damage, such as frost or chill damage, it may still be salvageable. Signs of damage include sunken spots on leaves, discoloration, pitting, wilting, and browning.

Deciduous orchids like Dendrobium species, Nobiles, and Catasetums drop their leaves during winter as a natural response to the cold weather. Some orchids bloom during the winter months, while others slow down their growth waiting for warmer weather. Some orchids go completely dormant, and there is nothing that can be done to prevent this.

Many commonly grown orchids tolerate winter temperatures of about 55° F. However, losing leaves when exposed to cold temperatures isn’t likely to occur unless water on the leaves freezes.