How to Grow Orchids Care

Even though orchids originate from tropical and humid climates, with the right amount of care they can be cultivated anywhere. Like most houseplants, orchids have certain basic needs, including light, water, fertilizer and climate control.Orchids also require potting medias such as fir bark or special orchid potting mixes that you can purchase at any plant specialty supplier to allow proper air circulation to the root system.The steps below will give you an idea just how easy and fun orchid care can be.

Things You'll Need

• orchid fertilizer
• watering can
• humidity tray
• pebbles or small stones
• orchid potting mix

Instructions

1. Place your orchid in an eastern, western or southern facing location. Be careful to avoid direct mid-day sunlight. If you are using artificial light, make sure it is no more than 8 hours of light provided per day.

2. Be sure to let the orchid potting mix dry out between each watering. It is essential that you make sure that you do not over water your orchids. If the roots are kept wet for long periods of time, they will begin to rot which is detrimental to the health of the plant.

3. Orchids will benefit from a light feeding of fertilizer every time that you water. You should use a 15% nitrogen and 10% phosphorous and 10% potash fertilizer for best results. Reduce the percentage of nitrogen during the dormant months for best results.

4. Orchids grow best in temperatures that range between 55-80 degrees. Humidity levels are important for healthy growth. Place the orchid on a tray filled with pebbles and 1/2 cup of water. Make sure the pot is not immersed in the water but is set on top the stones. Use a spray mist to moisten the leaves and flowers.