Do you have a beautiful orchid at home that you’re not quite sure how to care for? Not to worry! We’ve created a comprehensive guide with detailed orchid care instructions for 23 different species. While these unique blooms are definitely stunning, they can be particular about the care they receive. For this reason, we’ve included some basic supplies and a health checklist of symptoms to keep an eye out for.
Orchid Overview
Orchids represent the largest family of flowering plants on Earth, with more than 25,000 species and over 200,000 hybrids. Their diversity is unparalleled due to their ability to adapt and the longevity of their life span. Fossilized orchids have been found dating back millions of years.
While orchids can be found from the arctic tundra to the equator, most cultivated species are native to the tropics. They generally grow high in trees rather than the forest floor, which is why they require specific lighting and air circulation for healthy growth. If you take the climate of their environment and the location of their natural habitat into consideration, it becomes easier to understand the basic care requirements of orchids.
Orchid Facts
Unlike many plants and animals, orchids can produce hybrids from two different species and also between related genera.
Most orchids bloom annually, but if well-maintained they may bloom more often.
Orchids usually remain in bloom for 6 to 10 weeks.
Many orchids deal poorly with repotting, and usually will not flower for at least a year after they have been disturbed.
While many orchid variations exist, they share commonalities including bilateral symmetry, highly modified petals and extremely small seeds.
Supplies for Easy Orchid Care
While orchids have been around since the T-Rex was still alive and well, the typical home poses some threats that Mother Nature does not. The most common reasons orchids fail to flourish indoors is dry air and overwatering. However, you can easily turn your home into a tropical, orchid-friendly environment by using the supplies outlined below. You should be able to find all of these products at your local hardware store. You may even have some of them at home already!
Orchid care supplies include:
A humidistat to check for moisture
A humidity tray to ensure high humidity, especially if you are placing it by a window
A fan to increase air circulation
A spritzer to increase humidity
A thermometer to ensure your orchid’s living in its preferred temperature range
Orchid fertilizer specific to your orchid’s needs and the time of the year
Orchid fungicide and bactericide to keep away unwanted bacteria
Basic Orchid Care Requirements
Now that you have all the necessary supplies, let’s get into how to take care of orchids. There are a few factors to take into consideration when learning how to care for orchids.
LIGHT
Orchids are very particular about light, especially indoors. Some prefer high light (unobstructed sunlight from a south-facing window) where others prefer low light (limited northern exposure).
If you are concerned about the amount of lighting your orchid is receiving, assess the leaves. Brown leaves indicate your plant needs less sun. Leaves that are deep green often require more light.
TEMPERATURE
Since most orchids sold as houseplants are native to tropical regions, they can be sensitive to drastic temperature changes. Pay close attention to the range your orchid needs. The detailed care guide below will specify a healthy climate for each of the most common orchid types. For a simple reference, if you’re too hot or too cold, your orchid is likely too hot or too cold as well.
Humidity
Tropical plants are accustomed to more humidity than the average living room. In order to keep your orchid healthy, place your potted plant on top of pebbles and add water. Air flow is also very important. Try adding a fan to the room if you notice your orchid deteriorating.
Watering Orchids
When watering, be sure the roots have a chance to absorb the moisture before it runs through the mix. Place your orchid in the sink for a simplified technique, letting room temperature water run over it for a minute or so. Leave time for it to drain completely and avoid distilled or salt-softened water.
Orchids need to be watered differently than most plants because they are often planted in a bark mix rather than soil. So, just how often do you water orchids? Watering depends on orchid species , pot, potting mix, humidity levels and light.
As a rule of thumb, drought-tolerant orchids, such as cattleyas, oncidiums and dendrobiums, only need to be watered once a week. Other species should be watered every 4-5 days.
Fertilizing Orchids
Similar to the other important care factors, fertilizing is specific to each species. Generally, growers recommend using 20-20-20 fertilizer weekly or monthly. If you choose to fertilize weekly, it’s important that you dilute the fertilizer (about one-quarter of the full strength) so as to not overfeed the plant. After the blooms have dropped off, it’s still important to fertilize monthly or every other week.
TOXICITY
The orchids available in stores are typically not harmful to humans or pets. Although there may not be any seriously adverse health effects, consumption is still not recommended. If caring for orchids indoors, make sure your plant is in a safely out-of-reach spot for any curious infants or furry friends.
In the event of ingestion, some common symptoms to be aware of are:
Headaches
Nausea
Vomiting
Lethargy
If symptoms persist, see your doctor or veterinarian. For more specific information, be sure to know your orchid’s species so you can further research the potential risks. Twenty-three common species can be found below.
PESTS + PROBLEMS
Unfortunately, orchids are still susceptible to pests and other related health issues. A pest infestation can cause a variety of problems, like stunting new leaf production, decaying stem health and preventing flower growth. Some common pests to look out for are aphids, scales, mealybugs, thrips and spider mites.
Your orchid may have a pest problem if you notice misshapen and discolored leaves. If your orchid is taking suspiciously long to bloom or flowers aren’t reaching maturity, this could also be a sign of pests. And if your flowers look warped or have been turning brown, it’s likely you have a pest problem.
REPOTTING + PROPAGATION
Once you have a thriving orchid, the goal is to keep them growing and blooming in order to admire them for years to come. Repotting is an important step that can get overlooked. For more information on when and how to repot an orchid, check out the frequently asked questions below!
Once you figure out how to rebloom orchids, you can spread the wealth and propagate your plant to share with friends and family. You can always keep propagated plants to decorate a different part of your home that could use a little sprucing up.
Orchid Health Checklist
To adjust your caregiving to your orchid’s needs, examine the plant for signs of disease, weakness or infestation. Note that some species may not thrive in the environment you place them in, so be sure to ask an experienced and knowledgeable vendor for an orchid that will grow in the space you have available.
Signs of unhealthy orchids include:
Black spots or crust
White webbing
Limp leaves
Yellow leaves
Yellow or brown spots
Damp black spots
Torn leaves or petals with tiny holes
FREQUENTLY ASKED ORCHID QUESTIONS
Now that you have a basic idea of the care orchids need and some recommendations for helpful supplies, let’s go over some frequently asked questions about orchids.
HOW DO YOU CARE FOR AN INDOOR ORCHID PLANT?
Different orchid species have different light requirements. Navigating the best spot for your plant when bringing them indoors can be tricky since not every room has the same quality of light. If you’re looking for a rule of thumb when figuring out how to grow orchids indoors, find a window that faces south or east. Be careful giving your orchid strong, direct sunlight.
DO YOU STILL WATER ORCHIDS AFTER FLOWERING?
After orchids are done flowering, the plant enters a dormancy stage. How long this lasts varies between species. In a sense, the plants need to “rest” before they can start flowering again. Overall, reduce the amount you water your orchid after it blooms.
Different species are at higher risk for rot, which could possibly kill the plant. Make sure the soil is dry to the touch before watering your post-bloom orchid.
WHAT ORCHID POTS ARE BEST?
There are a few options when it comes to the best pot for your orchid. If you’re looking to take the budget route, a clear plastic pot is a great choice. Since orchid roots are typically exposed to sunlight in nature, a clear plastic pot can recreate this. Just be sure to check for ample drainage to avoid overwatering.
Ceramic pots come in a variety of designs and colors, so they’re a good option if you’re willing to spend a little more for decorative flair. Like with plastic pots, you’ll have to check for sufficient drainage. (Look for little holes along the bottom.)
Woven mesh pots come in a variety of materials. The biggest advantage is these containers closely resemble how orchids grow in the wild. If you live in a humid climate, consider a mesh pot so the soil and roots don’t dry out too quickly.
HOW TO REBLOOM ORCHIDS
Orchids are known for their instantly recognizable flowers that come in all shapes, sizes and colors. If your orchid is coming out of dormancy and you’re looking for full, beautiful blooms again, give the plant the optimal environment.
Keep the pot in a moderate climate, ideally between 55 and 65 degrees Fahrenheit. Avoid harsh, direct sunlight and opt for a location with good indirect lighting. Make sure the soil is completely dry before watering again and keep track of when you may need to incorporate fertilizer. When a new flower spike emerges, support the new growth with a small stake and orchid clips.
Orchid Varieties for Beginners
There’s a multitude of beautiful flowering orchid species to choose from, however, some are more finicky than others. Some of the best orchid varieties for beginners include, but are not limited to:
Encyclia
Brassavola
Paphiopedilum
Phalaenopsis
Cattleya
When shopping for your beginner orchid (proflowers has a variety of orchids for delivery), check all the labels to get the full species name. If possible, ask if your local nursery carries the particular variety you’re looking for before your visit. Check the species-specific care guide below for further details on keeping your plant happy and healthy.
23 Most Common Orchid Species and Their Care Requirements
Orchids come in a variety of species, each with their own respective care preferences. Below are some helpful guides on the best care practices for the 23 most common species.
1. CYMBIDIUM
| LIGHT
Filtered light
SOIL
Medium or fine fir bark mixed with peat moss or perlite
TEMPERATURE
These orchids have varying temperature needs throughout the year. Temperatures need to fall to about 45-55 degrees Fahrenheit in order to trigger winter blooms. Watch for temperatures above 85 degrees, which can cause the leaves to burn.
WATER
Water in the morning to allow plenty of moisture to drain before temperatures cool. Allow the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent sogginess. Watering amounts depend on the temperature. Be sure to water less during the winter and more in the summer.
FERTILIZER
Cymbidium orchids don’t require a ton of additional nutrients. Adding slow-release fertilizer pellets to the potting soil at the beginning of the season is enough for good results. Choose a balanced fertilizer and use only when plants are actively growing. |
2. SARCOCHILUS
| LIGHT
Moderate to low light
SOIL
Medium to coarse grade treated pine bark and river pebbles
TEMPERATURE
Most sarcochilus need minimum temperatures of 40 degrees Fahrenheit to bloom properly, and cannot tolerate temperatures over 90 degrees. They will tolerate a light frost with overhead protection and constant air movement.
WATER
The potting mixture should be constantly moist near the roots of the plant. Be extremely careful not to overwater during the winter.
FERTILIZER
Light feeding when in active growth is beneficial. Use a balanced water-soluble fertilizer during this period. |
3. PHALAENOPSIS
| LIGHT
Medium to bright indirect light
SOIL
Well-draining potting medium like fine grade orchid bark or orchid mix
TEMPERATURE
During the day they thrive in mild temperatures between 68-85 degrees Fahrenheit. At night they will tolerate slightly cooler environments, but the temperature needs to remain steady when in bloom. Chilly temperatures or drafty areas can cause flowers and buds to drop.
WATER
Water once a week and allow the potting mix to almost dry out between waterings. Do not let it stand in water.
FERTILIZER
Apply phalaenopsis fertilizer at one-quarter strength with every other watering when the orchid is not in bloom. Fertilizer can also be used to encourage blooming. |
4. DENDROBIUM
| LIGHT
Morning sun (can be direct), afternoon shade
SOIL
Well-draining potting medium like fine grade orchid bark or orchid mix
TEMPERATURE
During the day they thrive in mild temperatures between 68-85 degrees Fahrenheit. At night they will tolerate slightly cooler environments, but the temperature needs to remain steady when in bloom. Chilly temperatures or drafty areas can cause flowers and buds to drop.
WATER
Water once a week and allow the potting mix to almost dry out between watering. Do not let it stand in water.
FERTILIZER
When your orchid is blooming, fertilizer is not needed. During the summer, add a balanced fertilizer with every other watering. Stop fertilizing in the fall. If no new growth appears by January, consider a high-phosphorus fertilizer to promote blooms. |
5. CATTLEYA
| LIGHT
Morning sun (can be direct), afternoon shade
SOIL
Coarse medium such as medium grade fir bark
TEMPERATURE
During the day they thrive in mild temperatures below 85 degrees Fahrenheit. At night they prefer slightly cooler environments. Occasional temperature extremes are tolerated if exposure is not prolonged.
WATER
Allow the potting medium to become dry between waterings. In nature, these plants grow in treetops, meaning they are used to drying out between rains.
FERTILIZER
High-nitrogen fertilizers can be used year-round at 1 teaspoon per gallon of water. Feed once a month. |
6. VANDA
| LIGHT
Morning sun (can be direct), afternoon shade
SOIL
Coarse medium such as medium grade fir bark
TEMPERATURE
During the day they thrive in mild temperatures between below 85 degrees Fahrenheit. At night they prefer slightly cooler environments. Occasional temperature extremes are tolerated if exposure is not prolonged.
WATER
In nature, these plants grow in treetops, where they often dry out between periods of rain. When watering, allow the potting medium to dry before watering again.
FERTILIZER
High-nitrogen fertilizers can be used all year round. Mix 1 teaspoon with one gallon of water, and fertilize with this mixture once a month. |
7. PAPHIOPEDILUM
| LIGHT
Low light
SOIL
Medium or fine fir bark mixed with peat moss or perlite
TEMPERATURE
If the plant has mottled leaves, make sure the temperature remains between 60-80 degrees Fahrenheit. The more common paphiopedilums without mottled leaves can endure consistent temperatures as low as 50 degrees.
WATER
Water every five days. Check periodically to see if the top feels dry, and be sure not to overwater.
FERTILIZER
Paphiopedilums require little fertilizing. If the plant is in bark, use high-nitrogen fertilizer during the growing season. Otherwise, use a balanced fertilizer every other week at half strength, and make sure to flush the fertilizer with clear water once a month. |
8. ONCIDIUM
| LIGHT
Morning sun (can be direct), afternoon shade
SOIL
Well-draining potting medium like fine grade bark or orchid mix
TEMPERATURE
These orchids can withstand temperatures between 55-85 degrees Fahrenheit. Oncidiums can tolerate more heat if there is sufficient air movement.
WATER
This plant does not adhere to a watering schedule. Check water levels by pushing a popsicle stick into the potting mix to test for moisture. Watering needs can change from every other day to biweekly, depending on the growing season.
FERTILIZER
If the orchid is planted in bark, use high-nitrogen fertilizer during the growing season. Otherwise, use a balanced fertilizer diluted to half strength every other week, and make sure to flush the fertilizer with clear water once a month. Fertilize more during sunny conditions. |
9. MILTONIA
| LIGHT
Bright indirect light
SOIL
Well-draining potting medium like fine grade bark or orchid mix
TEMPERATURE
During the day they thrive in mild temperatures below 85 degrees Fahrenheit. At night they will tolerate slightly cooler environments. Occasional temperature extremes are tolerated if exposure is not prolonged.
WATER
Miltonias grow throughout the entire year, and require more frequent watering. Typically, they can be watered once weekly during the winter and twice during the summer.
FERTILIZER
High-nitrogen fertilizers can be used year-round at 1 teaspoon per gallon of water. Fertilize once a month. |
10. ODONTOGLOSSUM
| LIGHT
Filtered low light
SOIL
Well-draining potting medium like fine grade bark or orchid mix
TEMPERATURE
During the day they thrive in mild temperatures between 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. At night they will tolerate slightly cooler environments.
WATER
Allow the plant to dry between waterings. Be sure to water more often when growing.
FERTILIZER
Fertilize your plants at least once a month with orchid fertilizer. |
11. VUYLSTEKEARA
| LIGHT
Filtered low light
SOIL
Medium to fine fir bark
TEMPERATURE
During the day they thrive in mild temperatures between 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. At night they will tolerate slightly cooler environments.
WATER
Allow the plant to dry between waterings. Be sure to water more often when growing.
FERTILIZER
Fertilize your plants at least once a month with orchid fertilizer. |
12. ZYGOPETALUM
| LIGHT
Morning and afternoon sun, midday shade
SOIL
Well-draining potting medium like fine grade bark or orchid mix
TEMPERATURE
Zygopetalum orchids can thrive in summer heat and cooler winters as long as the plant is climatized. Once the plant spikes or flowers, it should be protected from temperatures below 35 degrees. Always keep these plants free from frost.
WATER
The plant should be watered about every 7-10 days. Be sure to prevent the bark from becoming completely dry, and don’t overwater to the point where the bark becomes soggy.
FERTILIZER
High-nitrogen fertilizers should be used from spring to summer, while low-nitrogen fertilizers should be used from fall to winter. Mix 1 teaspoon of fertilizer with 1 gallon of water, and fertilize with this mixture once a month. |
13. LUDISIA
| LIGHT
Filtered indirect light
SOIL
Mix of 60% potting soil and 40% grit or perlite
TEMPERATURE
These orchids can withstand temperatures between 55-85° degrees Fahrenheit. Don’t expose them to anything below 50 degrees.
WATER
This plant prefers slightly damp conditions. Do not allow it to dry out between waterings.
FERTILIZER
Ludisia orchids are small feeders. They only require fertilizer a few times a year. You can use a special orchid feed or something more generic like regular fertilizer. |
14. PHAIUS
| LIGHT
Bright indirect light
SOIL
Well-draining houseplant potting mix
TEMPERATURE
During the day they thrive in mild temperatures between 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. At night they will tolerate slightly cooler environments.
WATER
This plant prefers slightly damp conditions. Do not allow it to dry out between waterings.
FERTILIZER
During warmer weather or in warmer climates, fertilize every other watering. |
15. PHRAGMIPEDIUM
| LIGHT
Bright indirect light
SOIL
Seedling grade fir bark-type mixes, possibly with tree fern for drainage
TEMPERATURE
During the day they thrive in mild temperatures between 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. At night they will tolerate slightly cooler environments. Good air movement is very important.
WATER
Since these plants prefer damp conditions, they are best grown sitting in small saucers filled with about half an inch of fresh water. When the water is almost used up, water again.
FERTILIZER
To fertilize, use low-nitrogen fertilizer every other watering. It is important to rinse the pot occasionally to get rid of accumulated fertilizer, especially if using clay pots and saucers. |
16. BRASSAVOLA
| LIGHT
Bright indirect light
SOIL
Well-draining potting medium like fine grade orchid bark or orchid mix, preferably with clay pellets, charcoal and pine bark chips
TEMPERATURE
Brassavolas prefer intermediate to warm temperatures. They bloom best in temperatures between 65-85 degrees.
WATER
Water often during the growing season, but keep it slightly dry after flowering.
FERTILIZER
The orchid should be fed throughout the year with a weak fertilizer solution. |
17. CYCNOCHES
| LIGHT
Bright diffused light
SOIL
Well-draining potting medium like fine grade bark or orchid mix
TEMPERATURE
The ideal day temperature is 75-80 degrees Fahrenheit, while the ideal night temperature is 60-65 degrees. Occasional temperature extremes are tolerated if exposure is not prolonged. As long as you keep the temperature reasonable, you should have a healthy plant.
WATER
Cycnoches grow throughout the entire year, and require more frequent watering. Typically, they can be watered once a week during the winter and twice a week during the summer.
FERTILIZER
High-nitrogen fertilizers can be used year-round. Mix 1 teaspoon of fertilizer with 1 gallon of water, and fertilize with this mixture once a month. |
18. CATASETUM
| LIGHT
Bright light
SOIL
Fine grade orchid bark is common for smaller pots; medium grade bark is used only for large pots
TEMPERATURE
Native to hot, tropical areas, these orchids do best in warm climates with day temperatures of 80-100 degrees Fahrenheit and night temperatures of 60-65 degrees. When the growing period ends, temperatures should be reduced to 70-85 degrees during the day and 55 degrees at night.
WATER
These plants grow for a short period. Water weekly when you see new leaves forming. Gradually reduce watering once growth stops.
FERTILIZER
Use a high-nitrogen formulation while plants are in active growth, slowly tapering off as the growth period ends. Bloom booster fertilizer should be used in the fall except for plants that normally bloom in the spring. |
19. EPIDENDRUM
| LIGHT
Medium to bright indirect light
SOIL
Well-draining potting medium like fine grade bark or orchid mix
TEMPERATURE
The average daytime temperature should be between 60-90 degrees Fahrenheit, and the average nighttime temperature should be between 50-70 degrees. These orchids can even tolerate near-freezing temperatures for short periods of time.
WATER
Epidendrum orchids need more frequent and abundant watering. Water every 4-5 days during the warmer months and once weekly in the cooler months.
FERTILIZER
Fertilize regularly when in full growth. A balanced fertilizer is recommended with a half-strength solution every time you water. |
20. ENCYCLIA
| LIGHT
Bright light
SOIL
Rapidly draining potting mix like coarse fir bark
TEMPERATURE
This plant does best in daytime temperatures of 70 degrees Fahrenheit and nighttime temperatures between 55-60 degrees.
WATER
These plants like to stay rather dry. Allow to dry out during the winter and increase watering slightly when growth resumes.
FERTILIZER
When encyclia orchids are in active growth, they should be fertilized once a week. An orchid fertilizer mix is recommended. During the winter months, encyclias should only be fertilized once a month. |
21. LYCASTE
| LIGHT
Bright filtered light
SOIL
Potting mix of sphagnum moss or fine fir bark and perlite
TEMPERATURE
During the day they thrive in mild temperatures between 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. At night they do best in temperatures between 50-60 degrees.
WATER
Water when the plant’s potting mix is nearly dry to the center. It is best to soak the potting mix thoroughly when watering. This can be as often as every 2-3 days in the summer, and every 7-10 days in the winter.
FERTILIZER
Plants in this group should be given a balanced, water-soluble fertilizer about once a month during their growing months. |
22. MASDEVALLIA
| LIGHT
Medium to low light
SOIL
Potting mix of sphagnum moss or fine fir bark and perlite
TEMPERATURE
During the day they thrive in mild temperatures between 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. At night they like temperatures between 50-60 degrees.
WATER
This plant likes to stay moist but not wet. It is best to soak the potting mix thoroughly when watering. Water around every 2-3 days in the summer and every 7-10 days in the winter.
FERTILIZER
Apply a light amount of fertilizer at half strength every third time the plant is watered. |
23. PSYCHOPSIS
| LIGHT
Low to bright light
SOIL
Well-draining potting medium like fine grade orchid bark or orchid mix, preferably with clay pellets, charcoal and pine bark chips
TEMPERATURE
During the day they thrive in mild temperatures between 75-85 degrees Fahrenheit. At night they do best in temperatures between 50-60 degrees.
WATER
These plants enjoy moisture and should be watered every 2-3 days during the summer. Watering can be reduced in cooler climates.
FERTILIZER
Fertilize most heavily during growing periods and when the plants are placed in brighter light. Any orchid-friendly fertilizer can be used, but less nitrogen is needed when the plant is growing in a fir bark mix. |
With all this in mind, you’re on track to upgrade your orchid care to expert level. Propagate your beautiful blooms and share a meaningful gift with your loved ones, then make sure you fill them in on all the proper orchid care tips!
