Orchid Care

Orchids are a beautiful plant to have around the house. But they can also be very tricky to maintain!

Environment

Orchids are native to warm tropical regions including Central America and some parts of Florida. Orchids love warm temps between 75 and 85. Keep them in a well lit area, however, direct sunlight will cause leaf burn to your orchid. Dark spots on your orchid is an indication of to much light. I've found that a North of South facing window provides the best amount of light for proper growth!

Watering

Remember Orchids grow many in tree bark and sphagnum moss. DO NOT PLANT THEM IN SOIL. Given that orchids are a type of air plant they rely heavily on their roots to receive nutrients from the air; planting them in soil reduces the amount of air getting to the roots which may result in your plant dying. When the moss or tree bark in which you planted your orchid is completely dry, let your plant sit in a bucket of water for 10 to 15 minutes. This is only required once a week in the summer months and once every two weeks in the winter. The roots should look white with green tips as shown in the picture below. If you notice your plants roots brown and frail, try watering more frequently. 

Propagation

Propagation of Orchids is fairly difficult. Sometimes, Orchids that become agitated produce baby pups that grow off the stem. This is basically the only way to propagate Orchids. However, some solutions can be added to the stem to encourage baby's to grow!

Thanks for reading!

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