Florist’s Guide to Caring for a Potted Orchid at Home

1. Choosing the Right Spot

• Light: Orchids love bright, indirect light. Think “sunny window with a sheer curtain.” Too little light = no blooms; too much = sunburned leaves.

• Temperature: Keep them in a steady, moderate climate—ideally 65–75°F (18–24°C) by day and 5–10°F cooler at night.

• Air Circulation: Gentle airflow is essential. A nearby open window or small fan (set on low) helps prevent fungal problems.

2. Watering Wisely

• When: Most orchids (especially Phalaenopsis, the most common house type) prefer watering about once a week. In warmer months, they might need a bit more; in cooler months, a bit less.

• How:

  • Take the plant to a sink.

  • Run lukewarm water through the pot until it drains freely.

  • Let all excess water drain—orchids hate “wet feet.”

• Tip: Always water in the morning so leaves and crown dry before nightfall (reducing rot risk).

3. Feeding for Flowers

• Use a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20) or one labeled “orchid bloom booster.”

• Dilute to half strength and feed every 2–3 weeks during the active growing season (spring/summer).

• Reduce feeding in fall/winter when growth slows.

4. Humidity & Comfort

• Orchids thrive in 40–60% humidity.

• Boost humidity by:

  • Placing the pot on a pebble tray with water (but not letting roots sit in water).

  • Using a small humidifier nearby.

  • Grouping plants together to create a microclimate.

5. Pruning & Post-Bloom Care

• After blooms fade:

  • If the spike is green: Cut just above a node (small bump) about halfway down—this may trigger side blooms.

  • If the spike is brown: Cut it off at the base to let the plant rest.

• Keep caring for leaves and roots—next bloom could be in 6–12 months.

6. Repotting (Every 1–2 Years)

• Best done after flowering, in fresh orchid bark mix (never regular potting soil).

• Signs it’s time:

  • Roots overflowing the pot.

  • Bark breaking down into fine particles.

• Gently trim any mushy or dried roots before repotting.

7. Watch for Warning Signs

• Wrinkled leaves = under-watering.

• Yellow leaves = over-watering, too much sun, or natural leaf drop.

• Black spots or mushy crown = crown rot (keep water out of the leaf center).

Quick Care Recap (Florist’s Formula)

Light: Bright, indirect
Water: Once a week, drain well
Feed: Every 2–3 weeks in growth season
Humidity: 40–60%
Trim: After bloom fades
Repot: Every 1–2 years