Orchids are a classic household plant that add class and beauty to any home. They are surprisingly easy to maintain, but these indoor maintenance tips can help you create a thorough routine for these beautiful flowers! They can be found in a variety of sizes and colors and sometimes care is breed specific.

Basic Orchid Care

Orchids require well-drained and moist soils that will stay free from disease and mold. Popular growing mediums for this flower are sand, potting rocks, sphagnum peat moss, and potting soil. Perlite and fir bark are also used. Research your orchid to ensure proper soil mixes. For example, some orchids like to grow in course bark while others are grown in fine soils.

These flowers like shallow planting and bright, indirect sunlight. It is in these conditions that most will thrive. However, be aware that too much sunlight will cause leaf scorch, while not enough light will not be conducive to growth. It is best to abstain from over-watering, letting the soil or growing medium dry out completely before watering again.

Orchids tolerate moderate temperatures. Keeping temperatures about 15 degrees cooler at night will keep orchids healthy and growing at good rates. This can be achieved through regulated heating and cooling, or simply opening windows if you are located in a temperate climate.

Humidity is key for healthy orchids. Simply purchasing a humidifier that is designated for your orchid room will keep them in their preferred moist environment. If a humidifier is over your budget, then misting is a sufficient way to keep orchid moist and happy.

Orchids should also be fertilized on a bi-weekly basis. Organic fertilizers are best, but whatever fertilizer is used, it is best to stay consistent with applications so your orchids will bloom beautifully and soils remain within a safe PH balance. Some fertilizers contain chemicals that are harmful to long term soil quality.

If household pests such aphids become a problem, it is best to treat these with insecticidal soap, and not harsh insecticides. Feel free to contact us today regarding your orchid care questions. While all of these care methods will keep orchids healthy and growing, remember to research your particular breed of orchid for best gardening practices.

Enchanted Florist

4416 Fairmont #104

Pasadena, TX 77504

(832)850-7677

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