How do you care for potted orchids?


Quick Answer

Caring for potted orchids requires close attention to their needs for water, temperature, light exposure, food and ventilation. Care requirements may vary depending on the orchid's type and its place of origin.

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How do you care for potted orchids?
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Full Answer

Most orchid varieties prefer only partial exposure to the sun, as too much sun can damage the leaves. Varieties that need more sun exposure should still be monitored for potential sun damage, especially during the summer months.

To ensure optimal growth, orchids must experience temperature variation during the day, with higher temperatures during the day and cooler temperatures at night. The ideal temperature depends on the type of plant and the surrounding humidity. Orchids also require proper ventilation that allows the branches and leaves to breathe.

Orchids should be watered once or twice per week, depending on the indoor climate, the size of the pot and the potting material. Watering should take place in the morning to allow the plant to dry before night time. The potting material should remain slightly damp at all times. Filtered or natural rainwater are preferred to treated tap water.

Orchids require proper feeding between bloom cycles. Fertilizers used on orchids should contain a combination of phosphorus, nitrogen, potassium and iron. The amounts needed of each element depends on where the orchid is in its bloom cycle.

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