Orchids are popular indoor houseplants, but caring for them is something a lot of us forget to learn.
If you are a new orchid owner, read all about how to care for orchids here.
Common reasons orchids die:
- too much sunlight
- too much water
- too little water
- roots are overcrowded
How to save your dying orchid
Move your Orchid (too much sun)
Orchids really only need indirect sunlight. While we might think a windowsill is a great place, your plant will show signs in the leaves if they are getting too much sun.
The leaves will start to droop and turn yellow when it's getting too much sun.
Move your orchid off to the side of the window so the sunlight that it gets is not direct. Or use a curtain to help filter the light getting to your orchid.
Cut back on watering & prune any dead roots (too much water)
During the spring and summer orchids need to be watered twice a week. In the winter, reduce this to once a month.
If you notice the roots are looking brown or soggy, this is because of over watering. Don't throw them out yet!
You can try removing your orchid from the pot, and prune off any dead roots. Roots that are still healthy will feel hard, squishy or soggy roots are dead.
Then, repot your orchid with fresh potting mix. Find out more about how to repot your orchid here.
Give your orchids a good deep watering (not getting enough water)
If you notice your orchid's roots are turning gray, they are not getting enough water.
Fill your sink with three inches deep warm water, then place your orchid into it and let it soak for 10 minutes. Then, remove your orchid, and let it drain on a paper towel.
This ensures your orchid gets a good amount of water while also draining properly so the roots don't rot.
Repot your Orchid (roots are over crowded)
When roots are over crowded, they have to compete for water and nutrients. You might also notice the roots look gray.
Get a next size up orchid pot with drainage slots and repot your orchid. You can learn all about repotting orchids here.
Gloria says
My orchid has lost it’s leaves,. How do I know to repot my plant?
Joanna Stephens says
Hi Gloria, does your pot have enough draining holes? If it lost it's leaves, it's definitely time to repot if for no other reason than to check the roots.
If the roots are still healthy looking, it might come back. If the roots are all mushy, it's most likely root rot and the orchid may end up dying. Hope this helps!
Annette says
Good help
Denise B says
Should I be using softened water or distilled water or rain water?
Joanna Stephens says
Rain water is definitely the best option if you have it!