How to Make an Orchid Bloom

Orchids are beautiful flowers that bring joy to everyone who sees them, but sometimes they just won't bloom! Here are a few tricks to make your orchid the center of flora attention.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. *Check the lighting* Orchids like to be in filtered easterly sunlight whenever possible. If your plants aren't near a window, try bring them closer and partially close the shade. Or, if you plants are in direct light pull them away from it - if the edges of the leaves are brown or yellow that is an indication of burning, meaning too much light. Let plant sit for 2 weeks in new location before trying a new position.

2. *check soil moisture* Orchids like to be slightly damp, but not soaked. Your plants might not be blooming because they have been over watered. Try to keep watering to a half cup of water every week and half. Also, if your plant came in a decorative pot, pull the inner plastic planter out from inside to make sure moisture isn't being retained in the decorative pot and soaking the roots. If this is the case, let the plant completely try out before watering again.

3. *Check air temperature and humidity* Orchids like slightly humid air that is kept between 50 and 80 degrees. If your plants are near a window, check for a cold draft. If they are near a heater, check the amount of heat they are receiving.

Tips & Warnings

• Give the plant two weeks to adjust to any changes in their environment before moving them to a new location
• Plants like contact and human presence, so feel free to gently touch the plants or talk to them - sounds crazy, but they like the CO2 output!
• If your plant is in bad shape, consider taking it to a greenhouse or local garden store for expert attention