How to Grow Orchids Indoors

Several varieties of orchids including the popular Phalaenopsis variety are readily available from nurseries, growers and home improvements stores and are sold in their flowering state. Although the blooms may last for weeks or even months, getting the plant to create new flowers is a sometimes tricky endeavor. But with the right type of care, lighting and temperature controls, a healthy orchid will reproduce flowers several times a year.

Lighting Conditions for Orchids

How much and what type of light the orchid plant receives is the most important aspect of their care. Very few plants will produce new flowers if kept under insufficient lighting conditions. A healthy flowering orchid in its natural environment receives filtered light for several hours during the day. Protected by other overhead plants, the plants receive bits of sun and bright light that peek through the rainforest throughout the day. Indoors, an orchid plant bred from a nursery will thrive under very bright light but should be protected from direct sun that might burn the leaves or flowers. Orchids should receive at least 3 – 4 hours of clear light each day. Fluorescent lighting may be beneficial to flower production but usually is not sufficient as the only lighting source.

Temperature Conditions for Orchids

Not all orchid varieties prefer the same temperature conditions but the common types that are sold commercially will do well in normal indoor environments. To flower, orchids generally prefer a daytime temperature between 70 -75 degrees and a night time temperature of around 60 – 65 degrees. Plants enjoy being placed near a shower or bathtub where they experience steamy conditions. Good air circulation is paramount to orchid health and they will thrive if placed near a protected window with warm but not hot ventilation. If the temperature is too cool, flower production may be stalled.

Watering Orchids

During the cooler months of the year, most indoor varieties of orchids only require watering once a week. The plants should be placed in a sink or tub and given a good soaking and plenty of time to drain. Under watering rather than overwatering is a better practice as the roots need a chance to air and will rot with too much water. During the warmer months, the plants should be watered twice a week and misted with a sprayer during particularly hot days. Fertilizing an orchid plant on a regular basis will help generate flowers. Plants should be fertilized a minimum of every 3 weeks and preferably every week to boost flower production. Choose a fertilizer specifically manufactured for orchids.

Replanting Orchids

Most orchids prefer being slightly crowded rather than having too much space around the plant where the roots may be susceptible to moisture and rotting. Nurseries carry a variety of orchid potting mixture, many of which have a high bark content that allow the roots to receive air. The main objective when repotting an orchid plant is to allow for good drainage and air circulation. An orchid should be repotted or given fresh potting mix about every two years.

Finding the right environment to allow an orchid to produce new flowers requires a few simple steps. If the light, temperature and moisture conditions are suitable, a healthy plant will continue to produce stunning floral displays for many years.

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