Orchids are beautiful and delicate plants that are popular all around the world. These graceful plants convey love, luxury, beauty, and strength. In ancient Greece, orchids were linked to masculinity. Greek women believed that if an expectant father consumed large, fresh orchid tubers, the baby would be a boy. On the other hand, if the mother ate small orchid tubers, she would give birth to a girl. The orchid represents various meanings, including love, beauty, elegance, having many children, thoughtfulness, and a sophisticated allure.

Many think that orchids aren’t easy to grow. So if you’re new to the world of orchids, don’t be afraid of them. We’re here to guide you to care for your orchids easily with our 8 tips for keeping orchids healthy and blooming. 

Orchids are not the typical potted plants, they are epiphytes, meaning they grow by clinging onto the bark of trees rather than in soil. However, certain orchids, like lady slippers, are semi-terrestrial, meaning they grow in the rich soil found on the jungle floor.

Caring for orchids is not as complicated as it may seem, but they require some special attention. Orchids can bloom for months each year and have a long lifespan if properly cared for. Here are some tips for keeping orchids happy and blooming all year round.

Tips for keeping orchids healthy and blooming

• Watering orchids is important to their survival, but overwhelming orchids with water can harm them. Try using ice cube watering, this method ensures that your orchid receives the right amount of water without having to measure it. Simply place three ice cubes in the potting soil for a classic orchid, two for a petite orchid, and one for a mini orchid. 
• Fertilizing your orchid is important for it to bloom again and replicate the natural nutrients found in a tropical environment. After the blooms have fallen, fertilize your orchid once a month using a watering can or pitcher with a spout to get close to the bark of the plant. As the fertilizing solution is half water, you won’t need to water your orchid in the weeks you fertilize, as it will already be getting the hydration it needs.
• Make sure to use the right fetilizer for using the wrong or excessive fertilizer can hinder orchid blooming. It’s important to use a balanced orchid fertilizer and follow the recommended schedule to provide your orchids with the necessary nutrients for healthy flower growth.
• After blooming for about three months, orchids take a nine-month rest before they bloom again. After the blooms have fallen, start fertilizing every other week and move your orchid to a cooler environment with nighttime temperatures between 12 and 20 degrees Celsius. Continue watering as usual until a new flower spike appears.
• To promote healthy growth, repot your orchid into a larger pot after approximately a year. This allows the plant more room to thrive. Repotting is also beneficial if you’re dealing with pests or diseases. It involves replacing the depleted medium with a new one. 
• Orchids love indirect, bright light. This means placing them near an east- or west-facing window where they’ll receive sunlight for part of the day.
• Proper air circulation is crucial for orchids to avoid issues like root rot and diseases. Using pots with holes at the bottom and selecting a good soil can help ensure good air flow and keep your plants healthy. This is important as air circulation helps maintain the ideal temperature and humidity levels similar to their natural habitat. When air is stagnant, orchids may struggle to grow and bloom.
• Use clear pots with holes at the bottom to ensure proper drainage. Avoid using salt-softened or distilled water, as it can affect drainage. Regularly checking for proper drainage allows excess water to flow out and prevents root suffocation. This ensures healthy roots and thriving orchids.

In short, caring for orchids requires paying attention to details and considering factors such as light, air flow, fertilization, watering, root health, and humidity. Follow our tips for keeping orchids healthy and blooming and enjoy the beauty and splendor of these delicate plants all year round.