Phaelonopsis orchids are beautiful houseplants. They have some of the most beautiful blooms, but how do you keep them alive year after year?
This is a beginners guide for everything you need to know to care for your orchids so they thrive every year!
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How to water an Orchid Plant
In the spring and summer, water your orchid twice a week. In the winter, water your orchid once a week.
I like to water orchids like succulents. Submerge the pot in 3 inches of warm water (more if your pot is larger) and let it soak for a good 10 minutes. Then, drain the water and let your orchid drain any excess water.
Never use ice! Orchids are tropical plants, so this can shock the plant.
Orchid roots will turn gray if they need more water. They will look black from root rot if they are getting too much water.
Orchid Sunlight Needs
Orchids thrive in indirect sunlight. Exposing them to direct sunlight though can quickly kill your plant.
Orchids can tell you a lot by their leaves. Yellow leaves mean they are getting too much sun! So move them.
Bright green leaves mean they are getting the right amount of sun.
Do I need to fertilize my orchid?
Yes! Orchids will bloom much more often if you keep it fertilized.
In the spring and summer, try to fertilize them once every 2 weeks. In the winter, you can cut back to once a month.
We like this orchid food mist from the Grow Co. Just spray it on the planting medium when it's time to fertilize.
Another option is to use some banana peel fertilizer when you are watering.
How to prune orchids?
Another important thing for orchid beginners is to make sure you are pruning. Cut back any flowers starting to wilt.
Once your orchid has finished blooming, you can cut about an inch above the node of the main stem. The node will look like a raised bump almost like a smooth thorn.
If the stem is looking unhealthy or starting to turn brown, you may need to prune more drastically down to the base of the stem. Don't worry, this won't kill your orchid.
It just puts all the plant's energy into developing stronger roots and leaves. Next season, it will grow back.
Dian says
I’m told I can water using 3 ice cubes each week. You state NO ice cubes. Which way is best for the plant?
Joanna Stephens says
Hi Dian, I personally don't recommend ice cubes because orchids are tropical plants. It's better for the plant if you submerge your orchids in warm water for 10 minutes and then let them dry completely. In a pinch, you could use ice cubes but long term I don't think it's wise.
IF you decide to use ice cubes, make sure they don't touch the roots at all. Hope this helps!
Victoria Spiegel says
My orchids's leaves have some white stuff underneat, how can I clean it?
Joanna Stephens says
Use a little bit of water and a paper towl or wash cloth to gently rub it off. Hope this helps!
Sue Pickard says
My orchid has already bloomed . It is very healthy. I now see leaves shooting out from the very top of the stem. What should I do?
Sue
Joanna Stephens says
Hi Sue, so what you are describing sounds like a Keiki. This is when an orchid essentially clones itself. If you wait until the roots grow at least 2-3 inches, you can then cut this new plant off the stem and replant it into a small pot with potting medium. Hope this helps, good luck!
Amy says
I bought my Orchid at Costco- it came in a vase and was in a plastic liner in the pot - the plastic liner has no holes should I cut some it’s also a tight fit so air doesn’t get to the plant
Joanna Stephens says
Hi Amy, yes you should cut holes in your liner or it can't drain properly. When you are watering, let it drain completely and keep it out of your vase for at least a day. This lets the roots get a chance dry and not get soggy.