Radiant Orchid was deemed Pantone's Color of the Year back in 2014 and that name describes this type of houseplant perfectly. Orchids really are radiant if cared for properly. Follow these easy steps to keep your orchid growing year after year:
Orchid Care
Location. Location. Location. Just like real estate, location is key when it comes to orchid care. Be sure to place your orchid in a north or east facing window if possible where they'll receive morning or afternoon light. Orchids do best with indirect light exposure. If you really want your orchid in a room that receives more light, just be sure to keep it further away from the windows.
During your orchid's blooming period, be sure to feed it with a special orchid fertilizer. We recommend Espoma Organic Orchid Mix.
Water your orchid each week but be sure that your pot is well-drained. If you're using a cachpot, empty the bottom portion of the pot after watering.
In their natural environment (tropical, swampy areas), orchids thrive due to the humidity in the air. If you have a humidifier, try using it in the room where you've placed your orchid. Or place stones in the bottom of the pot so that any drained water may still hydrate the plant.
Here's where it gets tricky! After all of your orchids blooms have fallen off, continue to water regularly and wait for the stem to brown and then cut it off. If the stem stays green, cut it half an inch above the top node. This allows the plant to concentrate all of it's energy on growing more roots and leaves which will aid in bloom spikes later on.
To force blooms in late spring, take your orchid for a field trip into the great outdoors when the night temperatures are about 55 degrees. Place them in a raised location out of direct sunlight. They'll enjoy the diffused sunlight, circulation and high humidity. Look for roots that appear to be glossy and growing upwards. These are bloom spikes. Once one appears, bring the orchid indoors and begin feeding and watering regularly.
Take note of any changes in your orchid. Yellowed leaves typically indicate overwatering or too much light. Droopy leaves mean your plant isn't receiving enough water or humidity and black or darkened leaves are a sign of fungus.
When repotting your orchid, be sure to use soil specifically blended for orchids which allow the roots to receive more oxygen.