A Beginner’s Guide To Orchid Care

Orchids bring an unmatched elegance to any home or garden with their detailed, colorful blooms and amazing diversity. While these plants are often considered delicate and demanding, they are incredibly resilient if given the right conditions. With the right approach coupled with a little knowledge, anyone can cultivate orchids that flourish and bloom beautifully. 

In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to care for orchids and help them thrive. 

Choosing the Right Environment

Orchids flourish in very specific environments, and replicating this is crucial if you want them to flower well. Light, humidity, and temperature are important factors in orchid care. Many popular types of orchids, such as Mokara, Cattleya, and Vanda, all have different needs to grow at their best. 

Light

Most orchids thrive best in bright, indirect light. Direct sunlight will scorch the delicate leaves, while too little light prevents them from flowering. Most orchids will thrive in east- or west-facing windows; some species, such as Cattleya orchids, can tolerate a little bit more light—though it should still be filtered.

Humidity

Originating from tropical climates, orchids love humidity – these flowers generally require 50-70% humidity to thrive. If you live in a dry climate, you might want to place the orchid on a humidity tray or mist the leaves with water a few times a week to mimic the growing conditions found in their native habitat. For example, Vanda orchids are known for their preference for higher humidity levels.

Temperature

Most orchids prefer daytime temperatures between 65-75°F and a few degrees cooler in the evening. However, each species can be a little different from another, so check specifically for your type of orchid. Mokara orchids, for instance, can tolerate warmer temperatures than many other varieties.

Watering and Feeding Your Orchid

Watering is the most critical part of caring for your orchid, yet it can be a delicate balancing act. It is easy to make the mistake of overwatering, which causes root rot, and underwatering can leave your orchids dehydrated and unable to bloom.

Watering Tips

A good rule of thumb is to water orchids once a week, but it varies depending on the environment and season. Water with lukewarm water, making sure that it drains well, as orchids don’t like “wet feet.” Their roots should be allowed to dry between waterings, so choose a pot with a good drainage system. Clear pots are very helpful because you can observe the health of the roots—healthy orchid roots are usually bright green.

Feeding Orchids

Orchids benefit from a balanced fertilizer, typically labeled as 20-20-20, which provides equal parts nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. During the growing season (spring and summer), feed your orchid once a month by diluting the fertilizer to half the recommended strength. Avoid feeding orchids during their dormant period (typically fall and winter), as they need less nutrition when they’re not actively growing. 

Repotting and Pruning

Learning how to take care of an orchid includes knowing when to repot. Most orchids need repotting every 1-2 years, or if you notice that the roots have filled up the pot or the potting medium is starting to decompose. 

Repotting Tips

Choose a slightly larger pot than the one it is in now, with a well-draining orchid mix made from bark, moss, or a combination. Gently remove the orchid from its old pot. Shake off the old medium, and using sterile pruning tools, trim dead or decayed roots before repotting. Fresh, new potting medium provides the orchid roots with an oxygenated environment, which is important for healthy root growth.

Pruning for Growth

Pruning is not only about enhancing your orchid’s look; it also encourages new growth. Dead leaves or roots should be trimmed, and any faded blooms should also be pruned. This will keep the orchid clean and prevent wasting energy on dead or dying parts, allowing it to expend its energy on producing new growth.

Common Orchid Problems and Solutions

Even with the best care, orchids can encounter issues like pests, diseases, and environmental stress. Being proactive and knowing how to handle these problems is key to keeping your orchid in peak condition.

With proper care, an orchid can still be afflicted by pests, diseases, and environmental stressors. Being proactive about handling these problems is the key to keeping your orchid plant at the top of its game. 

Pests

Aphids, spider mites and mealybugs are the most common pests. Wipe leaves gently with a solution of water and a mild dish soap, or spray with an insecticidal soap specifically formulated for indoor plants. Be alert, as pests can spread quickly among plants. 

Diseases

Most orchid diseases are caused by fungal or bacterial infections, usually due to overwatering or poor air circulation. Yellowing leaves or black spots may signal disease, so remove the affected parts and try to improve the airflow around your orchid. If the disease persists, consider using a fungicide or bactericide suitable for orchids.

Environmental Stress

Orchids are sensitive to changes in their environment, such as shifts in light, temperature, or humidity. Try placing your orchid in a stable environment where it is not moved around too much. If you notice your orchid struggling, reassess its light and water levels, as these are often the primary causes of stress.

Orchids may seem intimidating at first, but with our guide, you will be well on your way to being a pro in orchid care.  

Trust BB Orchids for High-Quality Orchids

If you are a business looking to expand your orchid collection, BB Orchids is a trusted supplier of premium orchids from Thailand. With decades of expertise in orchid farming, care, supply and export – BB Orchids provides an extensive selection of orchid species, including popular varieties like Mokara, Cattleya, and Vanda, each cultivated with meticulous care to meet the highest standards.

Our commitment to quality and our ability to deliver healthy, vibrant plants worldwide makes us an ideal partner for retailers, wholesalers, and markets worldwide. With a focus on consistency, quality, and professional service, BB Orchids stands out as a leading choice for businesses seeking exceptional, long-lasting Thai orchids.

Contact us today to learn more about how we can support you.