How to Get an Orchid to Bloom Again
Orchids are grown for their exotic and exquisite blooms. An orchid that won't bloom can be discouraging, but a fine-tuning of its environment may be all that is needed. By checking conditions like the amount and intensity of light, water and fertilization, you will get an idea of what changes are needed to stir your reluctant sleeper back to awe-inspiring form. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Fresh potting medium
- Orchid or houseplant fertilizer
- Bloom-specific fertilizer (phosphorous rich)
Instructions
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Insufficient sunlight is the most common reason for a non-blooming orchid. You can test this by checking the leaf color of your plant. Light, grassy green is the ideal color for orchid leaves. If they are dark green or yellowed, they are probably receiving inadequate light. Orchids should be positioned near a south- or east-facing window, about 3 to 6 inches away from the glass. Move your plant nearer to the window, or to a sunnier location, if low sunlight seems to be the problem.
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Check the roots and potting medium by carefully removing the orchid from its container. If the potting medium is broken down, soggy or rotted, it should be replaced. Soft, brown or black roots can be removed; it is normal for these to be present, but if they account for a large percentage of the roots, you may be overwatering your plant.
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After correcting any sunlight or watering problems, check your fertilizer usage. Orchids prefer weak doses of balanced houseplant fertilizer. Apply at 1/4 the recommended rate every two weeks.
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Tips & Warnings
If a south- or east-facing window is not an option, try a west-facing window with a sheer curtain to protect the orchid from scorching afternoon sun.
If sunlight is lacking or you don't have a great window spot, you should think about supplementing with fluorescent grow lights.
In the fall, you can substitute a phosphorous-rich fertilizer for your normal fertilizer to encourage blooming.
Cut off spent flower spikes with sterilized scissors when they are no longer green. Most orchids will not re-bloom on the same spike.
Do not over-fertilize your orchid. Orchids will be healthier with too little fertilizer than with too much.
Do not fertilize when the root mass is totally dry. Water first, then add the fertilizer solution.
References
Resources
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