Top tips on orchid care
Orchids are easy to look after according to our CEO and horticultural expert, Peter Burks.
If you are giving one to your Mum this Mothering Sunday, or receive one yourself, then just print off Peter’s easy-care guide to help you keep your orchid looking good.
- Don’t over water. More orchids are killed by over watering than anything else, so it’s important that you leave an orchid until the roots and compost are almost dry before re-watering and then soak it for 15 minutes in your kitchen sink.
- Orchids require a proper Orchid feed but don’t feed too much. Once a month should be plenty.
- In the wild orchids grow under the jungle canopy in partial shade, so avoid intense sunlight but some direct sun is ok either in the early morning or late afternoon.
How do I encourage my orchid to re-flower?
Most orchids sold are phalaenopsis and these are the best starter orchids for the home.
These can flower continuously for several years as either an existing flowering stem branches to produce more flowers, or new stems are produced from the base. It is very important to keep your orchid in a good, well-lit position but not in full sunlight.
Encouraging a phalaenopsis to re-flower is easy when following these straightforward guidelines:
- Water your orchid properly. Every time its roots and compost are almost dry, soak it for 15 minutes in your kitchen sink. The flowers eventually die and when two or three remain, cut the flower spike (which is the stem the flowers are on) off above any new buds on a side stem. The resulting side stem will flower three months later for several months. You can repeat this process when needed.
- When the spike dies back, cut it off at its base just above the plant. It is particularly important at this time that a bloom feed is used to promote a new flower spike.
How do I re-pot my phalaenopsis orchid?
Re-potting, or changing the growing medium, is important in maintaining a healthy plant.
This is done in the spring after purchase, then every second spring. Phalaenopsis remain in the same size pot. Other types may require a larger pot. Use a bark and/or coir-based medium and avoid those containing peat/soil.
Use clear orchid pots with plenty of base holes to allow good drainage and air flow through the pot. Clear pots allow sight of the root system and compost, aiding correct watering and also promoting photosynthesis within the roots. You can of course pop your clear pot inside a pot cover to match the décor of your room.
Want to know more?
Get in touch with or visit your nearest GCA garden centre.