I bought my first orchid plant, and the first question that popped into my head was, "How on earth do I care for these pretty flowers?" Orchids are amazing—those blooms last for 4-6 weeks, their structure is out of this world, and the colors are simply stunning. But, of course, they’re delicate divas. I'm still figuring out how to keep this beauty happy because there's so much to learn. But let me share some basic tips for when you bring one home from the nursery. Remember, it's a big change for them, just like moving is for us humans, and they can get pretty stressed out.
Acclimate Your Orchid:
When I walked into the house with my new orchid, I was over the moon. I immediately started the great orchid quest to find the perfect spot for my delicate beauty. Orchids love indirect light (and mine came in full bloom, no pressure), so I put it near a window with indirect sunlight. After all, direct sunlight is like a frying pan for those tender leaves.
Potting and Medium:
When you grab an orchid from the nursery, make sure it’s not potted in regular soil. Orchids are high-maintenance and need a fancy mix of bark, perlite, charcoal, and sphagnum moss. They get their nutrients from the air through their roots, so good air circulation and drainage are a must. Clear pots are ideal too—because of course, now we’re root health inspectors.
Proper Watering:
Water: Give your orchid a drink just once a week. Use room-temperature water and make sure it drains well.
Humidity: Orchids love it humid, ideally between 50-70%. If your home is dry, think about getting a humidity tray or a humidifier. Because apparently, your orchid needs a spa day.
Prunning and Blooming Care:
I asked the nursery guy, "Hey, what happens when my orchid's flower party ends?" He replied, "chop off the flower spike just above a node to give it a chance for round two or some fresh greenery."
Fertilizer:
When choosing fertilizer for your orchids, aim for a balanced ratio like 20-20-20, which means equal parts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. During spring or summer, this helps boost growth and blooms. If you prefer organic options, try Banana Peel Fertilizer: Soak banana peels in water to create a nutrient-packed solution. Dilute it before watering your orchids to avoid over-fertilizing. This natural remedy, rich in potassium, encourages healthy flowering and overall plant vitality.
Orchid Plant: Out of Nursery?