Should I Plant Orchids When?

Orchid care, also known as orchid culture, involves a balance of water, fertilizer, light, temperature, air movement, and humidity. Most orchids are sturdy perennials with exotic flowers that last for up to three months. Common types include Phalaenopsis orchids, which require bright light but indirect sunlight. Some orchids, like Vanda orchids, require full sun. For moth orchids and others that need bright but indirect light, an east- or west location is recommended.

Orchids bloom once per year, but their flowers can last from a few hours to several weeks depending on the species. They typically bloom at different times throughout the year based on their native climate. Planting orchids in the spring or summer when the weather is warmer and more humid provides ideal conditions for orchids to establish and grow well. Orchids are light-hungry plants, so they should get 12 to 14 hours of light each day, year-round.

Transplanting orchids is recommended after they bloom, when new roots have appeared but haven’t grown longer than 1/2 inch, or when the roots start to grow longer than 1/2 inch. Orchids prefer a happy medium in between, and tropical orchids don’t fare well in very dry air. Growing orchids outside is restricted from late spring through summer to early fall. Spring is the best time to pot or repot orchids because it marks the beginning of the next growing cycle. Orchids thrive in temperatures above 50°F but below 85°F, and closer to creating these conditions leads to more success and better blooms.

Is coffee good for orchids?

While coffee grounds are beneficial as a compost addition, their decomposition is not effective for most orchids. Furthermore, the rapid decomposition of orchid potting bark caused by coffee grounds results in root rot. It is therefore recommended that these grounds be reserved for use with other plants.

Do orchids like big or small pots?

Orchids should be repotted every 2-3 years, when they start to push out new root growth. The size of the pot depends on the orchid’s growth rate and the size of the clump and root mass. For most orchids, a pot with a top diameter about a third to a half of the plant’s height is suitable. Clay pots can be used to repot orchids, as they last for many years and can be used over and over. Clay pots dry out the medium faster, preventing rot in the inner root system.

They also remove mineral salts from the mixture, leaving fertilizer salt residue on the outer surface. Clay pots also help measure moisture levels, and it is important not to over-pot. All orchids need oxygen around their roots, and smaller pots have more external surface area for air exchange. It is better to under-pot than over-pot, as too large pots can result in rotting the inner core of roots. More information on re-potting can be found in the guide Potting and Dividing Orchids and Orchid Care Guides.

What is the lifespan of an orchid?

The lifespan of an orchid depends on various factors, including the type, environment, care, and watering. If properly cared for, orchids can bloom twice a year for 15-20 years, with phalaenopsis orchids typically lasting two to three months. After the initial bloom, the plants go into a resting phase, saving energy for the upcoming flowering season. Some common mistakes made by novice orchid growers include overlooking these details, which are part of the learning process. It’s important to be aware of these mistakes and take steps to ensure the longevity of your orchids.

What is the season for orchid plant?

Normal orchid bloom loss is a natural process that occurs when the orchid’s buds suddenly dry up and fall off before opening into blooms. Just Add Ice® Orchids are produced year-round, so their blooming cycle might not follow this exact pattern. However, if the blooms have a typical lifespan and then slowly wilt and fall off, there’s no need to worry. To prevent this, trim back the bloom spikes to an inch above the node past the last bloom and continue your care regimen.

Both bud blast and bloom blast are caused by a traumatic change in the orchid’s environment, such as sudden temperature or humidity changes or improper hydration. To prevent these issues, ensure your orchid is not near a vent when your AC kicks on for the summer and stick to your watering regime. By following these care steps, you can expect more blooms in just a few months.

Do orchids need sun or no sun?

Orchids require varying amounts of sunlight for flower production, with some requiring full sun for the entire day and others preferring indirect or dappled light. The time of year also plays a role, as the sun’s position changes over 12 months. Oncidiums like Spaghettis and Equitant require bright light, while Oncidesa, Phalaenopsis, and Cattleya thrive in semi-shaded conditions. Therefore, the ideal light conditions for your highrise garden depend on your specific orchid species.

How often should I water orchids?

Watering your orchid every 7 to 11 days, especially when the mix is dry, is essential to prevent damage and prevent overwatering, which can lead to crown rot, root rot, and other infestations. Watering in the morning is recommended as nighttime watering can leave water sitting for a period. Additionally, consider the temperature of your house, as high thermostats may cause the orchid to grow in summer. Visit our shop to see beautiful phalaenopsis orchids grown in the south coast of England, and sign up for our newsletter to access our orchids at discounted prices when we have grown a few too many.

Do orchids grow all year round?

The natural orchid growth cycle typically involves leaf growth in summer and early autumn, flower spikes in late autumn to early winter, and flowering in winter and spring. It takes an average of 2 to 3 months for new growth to appear and a fully developed spike to bloom. It is advised not to rotate the orchid, as it will try to grow towards the light. Support a new spike as soon as it is long enough, and use standard plant stakes and orchid clips for support.

For overseas plants, bendable orchid flower stakes are recommended. When buying orchids, look for ones with closed buds at the end of the spike, as they typically have 2 to 3 months of blooming ahead. The twist ties provided by the orchid spikes may not be the best option, so opt for orchid clips instead.

Do orchids grow in summer?

Orchids thrive in summer and require balanced fertilizer, but their nutritional needs are minimal. They can survive on water without additional feed during cooler weather. Avoid direct sunlight and radiators, preferring bright, east or west-facing windows and bathrooms. Maintain a humid climate with indirect light. Avoid placing your orchid near a fruit bowl, as ripe fruit releases ethylene gas, which can negatively impact the flower. Avoid exposing your orchid to fruit, as it may lose all its flowers overnight.

What triggers an orchid to bloom?

Orchids require adequate light to rebloom, and it is crucial for hobbyists to understand the factors that trigger blooming in their plants. Without adequate light, no amount of cajoling with decreased nitrogen, abusive cold nights, or dehydration will result in flowering. If you notice a general decline in the number of flowers, it is highly likely that the amount of light reaching your growing area has decreased. Trees and landscaping grow as well and can eventually shade windows.

Ideally, most orchids should have light green foliage, which should be a light yellow-green rather than a lush grass green. The leaves of your plants should be firm and stand upright, with Phalaenopsis needing relatively low light holding their foliage horizontally or somewhat upright. Plants that produce very long, floppy leaves are being grown under insufficient light.

The leaves of your plants should be the plant-equivalent of solar collectors. The lower the light, the bigger the leaves need to be to gather the same amount of light, and the heavier the leaves, the harder it will be to hold them firm and upright. By understanding the factors that trigger blooming in orchids, hobbyists can ensure their orchids rebloom successfully.

What month is best to plant orchids?

Planting orchids in spring or summer is ideal for their growth due to warmer and humid weather. However, some orchids can be planted in fall or winter, as long as they are carefully adapted to the weather and soil conditions. Some orchids are more demanding in terms of planting and growing conditions, such as light and heat requirements or shade and moisture preferences. Therefore, it is crucial to thoroughly research the type of orchid you want to plant and ensure it is adapted to your climate and soil conditions before planting.

What are the conditions for orchids?

Houseplant orchids prefer bright light but not direct sun, and prefer regular watering and misting with rainwater or boiled water. They need bark-based compost and prefer a medium in between. Tropical orchids don’t thrive in dry air, so mist leaves regularly. Tap water can be harmful, so use boiled or rainwater if possible. Avoid leaving them standing in water, as it can rot the roots. Phalaenopsis, the most widely grown houseplant orchid, is ideal for centrally heated homes and produces exotic displays of large blooms. They require minimal maintenance and are ideal for beginners.