How To Grow And Care For Orchids At Home: Tips To Keep Them Blooming Perennially
The incredible diversity, beauty, and complexity of orchids are unparalleled in the world of flora.
Orchids may seem delicate, but in reality, they are tough and easy-to-care plants. It is true that orchids need a specific amount of water and a distinctive potting mix to thrive, but this diverse and large group of plants includes numerous species that can be easily grown indoors too. As a result of your careful and consistent efforts, orchid plants will reward you with exotic blooms for many years to come. Follow the guide below to grow orchids at home.
Water requirement
Orchids commonly die owing to overwatering. Instead of following a strict watering schedule for your orchid plants (for instance, regularly or once or twice a week), pay closer attention to the water requirement of the plants. You can determine it based on the light, humidity, potting mix, and air movement.
Orchids need regular fertilization
Your orchids will bloom well with regular fertilizing. During the growing season, make proper use of liquid balanced fertilizer from the middle of spring to early fall. It is best if you use an orchid fertilizer, but you may also opt for any regular liquid fertilizer for houseplants. But do not use excess fertilizer, orchids thrive better when little fertilizer is used and not too much.
Orchids do not require frequent repotting
You will often find orchids planted in plastic pots with ample perforations, placed inside a decorative and larger pot. You can leave the plant in the pot for several years as they like being snug. However, if you wish to boost your plant’s growth, you need to repot it in a vessel that is nearly 1 to 2 inches bigger in diameter. Make sure you are using orchid soil during the repotting.
Choose the ideal potting mix for orchids
Potting mix has a key role in determining how often your orchids need watering. Typically, orchid plants are potted in bark chips or sphagnum moss. While both are suitable, they require slightly different care. Moss soaks up water like a sponge and takes longer to dry out. On the other hand, bark chips drain out water quickly. Pick the correct potting mix as per your plant’s requirement.
Light requirement
The ideal spot for your orchids would be east-facing window sills. South-facing unscreened window sills can be too hot and bright for orchids, but you can use a sheer curtain to filter out the excess light. You may also place the plant a couple of feet away from the window to allow indirect light.
If you have not grown an orchid earlier, try opting for a simple variety. Only after achieving greater expertise and knowledge, you may opt for high-maintenance varieties.
