Humidity - Because most orchids grow in climates with moist air, they do prefer humidity levels between 50% and 80%. Considering the average house has about 10% humidity, some adjustments will have to be made. Humidity can be raised by misting leaves every morning, by running a small humidifier, or, perhaps the easiest method, by setting them on pebble trays. A pebble tray is a container with 2" or higher sides, larger than the pot, containing 1 - 1/2" or more of gravel and containing 1/4" to 1" of water. The bottom of the pot rest on the rocks, but never comes in contact with the water. Along with humidity goes good air circulation. High humidity coupled with stagnant air provides a breeding ground for fungal problems. Lacking a nice, airy room, a small fan or slightly opened window will help.

Temperature - Extreme cold is not tolerated, but fall nights to 50°F will encourage flowering. Day temperatures of 75°F to 85°F are optimal. Increase water, air movement, and humidity when temperature exceeds 85°F. Seedlings like temperatures 5°F to 10°F higher. Greatly fluctuating temperatures can cause buds to drop.

Fertilizing - In the wild, orchids are fertilized only by minute particles of organic debris that wash over their roots, so orchids are not heavy feeders. The best advise for most orchids is to fertilize half the recommended strength of a normal plant fertilizer, twice monthly or 1/4 of the recommended strength weekly. The formulation of plant food you use will depend both on the type of orchid and the type of growing medium it is potted in. Most orchid enthusiasts and growers prefer a formula that is low in urea as a source of Nitrogen. Examine the back label for this information. Fertilize weekly during the summer or when plants are blooming. In cooler weather, fertilize only once or twice per month. In most organic and non-organic potting media, a balanced 8-8-8 fertilizer, such as Grow-N-Thrive, is preferred. In a pro-mix type potting media, the media absorbs and concentrates the fertilizer. Grow-N-Thrive's gentle 8-8-8 formula with micro-nutrients provides excellent results in the form of multiple spikes and vibrant blooms in all types of media. Do not mix the fertilizer any stronger than is recommended for fear of burning the roots. Give enough fertilizer solution to the pot so that some runs out of the bottom (you can collect it and reuse). Since plants can absorb nutrients through their foliage, spraying the fertilizer solution on the leaves is also beneficial.

Light - A general rule of thumb for determining correct light levels is to judge by the color of the leaves. A healthy orchid in proper light has foliage that is a clear light to medium green with new leaves showing a soft sheen. The plant should flower regularly. Reddish or purple edges to the leaves are an indication that the leaves are getting as much light as they can take without burning. Too much light can also bleach out the chlorophyll, causing the leaves to look pale or yellowish-green. Not enough light makes foliage a dark, grass green and the plant will not flower well or at all.

Bugs and Slugs - Orchids can occasionally "come down with a bug". Mealy bugs, scales, and aphids can simply be washed off (preferably outdoors). If chemical pesticides are used, malathion will control scale, mealy bugs, and aphids. Rubbing alcohol may be sprayed on plants, blooms and buds as an alternative to insecticide. Slug and snail damage can be lessened by not setting plants directly on the ground when putting orchids outside for the summer. A product containing metaldehyde may be used to kill slugs and snails.

Repotting - Most orchids will need to be repotted at one time or another - either when they out grow their existing container of when the potting medium begins to break down, generally every 2 or 3 years. Because orchids like impeccable drainage, media such as fir bark, osmunda fiber, volcanic rock, and charcoal have all been used. Exactly what mixture should be used and when to repot will depend on the orchid variety, your climate, and the size and age of the plant.

Learn More: Specific Orchid Types

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