Orchid Care Guide

A majority of orchids are in the ‘epiphyte’ family, meaning that in their natural habitat they are
not found growing in soil, they’re usually growing in trees. This means orchids need their own special pot and mixture to root in. Orchid “soil” is mostly made up of wood chips, and sometimes moss. Most orchid pots will have several holes in them to allow for sufficient water drainage, and to replicate the conditions an orchid would naturally grow in.

Phalaenopsis

Otherwise known as the ‘moth orchid’, are the toughest, and without doubt, the most popular orchids on the scene. These are luxury, and resilient, making them perfect for beginners. They can survive just about anything, and put on a great show once their seasonal blooms come in. Most varieties of orchids will bloom once a year. The moth orchid is the easiest of the orchid family. Keep temperatures at 70-85, lowering the temperature at night by 10-15 degrees might help them stay on their bloom cycle. Mist whenever possible to maintain humidity.

Light: Relatively low lighting, is best for Moth Orchids. Try an east window, or a slightly shaded south window. Direct sunlight is definitely a bad idea, this might burn your leaves. If your orchid is healthy but it doesn’t bloom, try increasing the lighting.

Water: Usually about once a week, or whenever the moss/bark dries out. The easiest way to kill an orchid is through overwatering. Keeping the roots consistently moist will cause root rot and other orchid diseases. To water an orchid, take it to the sink and run water through its pot until it drains out through the drainage holes, making sure that all potting mix gets water. Try not to get water into the plant's crown as it may be trapped there and lead to rot.

When does it eat? Feed with an orchid food at half of the recommended dosage weekly. Feeding orchids creates healthier growth, and strong blooms. A general rule with most orchids is to feed weakly, weekly.

Do:
-Mist occasionally
-Pot in orchid mix
-Make sure pot has good drainage Don’t:
-Leave in standing water
-Place in full sun

Cattleya Orchid

These are probably one of the more delicate orchids to care for, but they aren’t impossible. With the tips below we’ll get you on your way to caring for these delicate but feasible flowers. Keep temperatures at 70-85, lowering the temperature at night by 10-15 degrees might help them stay on their bloom cycle. Mist whenever possible!

Light: Direct sunlight will be a little too much for this one. Placing this plant off of a south-facing window or a bright east-facing window should be enough. If the plant doesn't bloom, try giving it more light.

Water: These orchids dry out between watering as well, and require the same amount of moisture in the roots as most orchids. Usually about once a week, or whenever the moss/bark dries out. Do not leave in standing water!

When does it eat? Since most orchids are sensitive to over fertilizing, be sure to feed at half the recommended rate, and go from there. Typically a half strength feeding at every watering, and adjust from there.

Do:
-Mist occasionally
-Offer bright light
-Keep in orchid appropriate pot and mix
Don’t:
-Leave in standing water
-Over feed, this orchid can be easily over fertilized

Dendrobium (phaelenopsis-type) Orchid

These orchids, like the moth orchid, are known for being some of the easiest to care for. They do prefer taller pots over shorter ones, so feel free to get eclectic with your potting choices. With striking upright foliage, unlike that of the phaelenopsis, and full lush bloom sets, these will give any space an elegant modern touch. Mist when possible to maintain humidity.

Light: No direct sun for these, but they do enjoy being around south or east facing windows. If you’re having trouble getting your orchid to rebloom, place it in a brighter space.

Water: Like most orchids, dendrobiums are not fans of wet feet. Make sure the orchid mixture is on it’s way to drying out before watering. Once a week watering should be ideal. If you notice your plant is drying out too fast, try watering twice a week.

When does it eat? A half or quarter strength orchid food with every watering should be ideal. Careful not to feed too often at full strength. Orchids are very sensitive to being overfed, and too much food can burn foliage.

Do:
-Mist when possible
-Wait for medium to dry out before watering -Keep in bright light

Don’t:
-Leave in standing water -Place in full sun
-Feed at full strength