We Asked an Orchid Expert How to Keep Our Orchids Alive and Thriving—10 of His Top Tips

Miltonia orchids in white pots with long foliage and pink and white flowers

Moth orchids (Phalaenopsis) are popular houseplants that maintain attractive flowers for months. Though orchids have a reputation for being difficult, they’re actually easy to care for once you understand their unique light and watering needs.

Read on to discover how to keep orchids alive with the help of expert.

How to Keep Orchids Growing Healthy

As far as their reputation goes, orchid expert Toine Overgaag says that orchids get a needlessly bad reputation for being difficult.

“They can actually be pretty simple to care for if you have the appropriate information and methods,” he says.

According to Overgaag, all orchids truly need is consistency. With the right mix of water and light, he assures us they can flourish. Orchids need to dry out between thorough watering; they need bright, indirect sunlight; and they should be kept at roughly room temperature.

Respect Orchid Dormancy

Orchids experience a period of dormancy, usually in the winter when they are preparing to re-bloom. The plant may seem like it is not growing during this time. This may be when it drops its flowers, and it may even involve some of the leaves dying. This is normal.

You will discover that orchids need less water at this time. You can also go easier on fertilizer, and dormant orchids can get by with less light. Orchids need this healthy period of rest.

Check the Roots Weekly

Watering the orchid thoroughly under the faucet before pruning

Check the roots weekly to determine if the orchid needs to be watered. Silver, dry roots are ready for more water, while green roots are still moist. Do not water already-green roots to prevent root rot.

“If they’re gray or look dry, soak them in water for thirty minutes, drain, and voila,” he says. “You’ll see they’re green again.”

Water Correctly

watering an orchid in the sink

Once you’ve determined whether or not your orchid requires water, place it into a watertight container and pour water onto the bark. Let the water fill your container to the halfway mark. Let your orchid soak for at least twenty minutes.

“The orchid can soak for one to two hours if it is very dry,” Overgaag says. “Then, remove the orchid from the water and allow it to drain, pour out the water from the container, return the orchid to the decorative pot, and enjoy!”

Provide Proper Lighting

orchid by a dark window

As with all houseplants, your orchid’s lighting requirements may vary. Check with your nursery, read the tag, or Google. For the most part, orchids like a lot of indirect sunlight. Place your orchid near a bright window.

“Where you place your plant will be the difference maker,” says Overgaag.

Fertilize at the Right Time

White and pink orchid near fertilizer

Fertilize your orchid regularly during its growth period, following the instructions on the fertilizer product. Do not fertilizer year-round.

“Fertilize during the active growth period, then reduce fertilization during the resting period,” he says.

Prune Regularly

How to Prune Orchids

Remove dead flowers or leaves. If the debris does not fall right off, remove with clean pruners or scissors.

“Regularly trim away dead or yellowing leaves or dead flowers so the plant’s energy can stay focused on new growth,” he says.

Manage Pests Promptly

Cat playing with orchid petal on a table.

If you see any sign of pests, bugs, or aphids, get rid of them as soon as possible.

“There are many natural options, such as organic insecticidal soaps,” says Overgaag.

Ensure Proper Airflow

Orchid with air roots placed in large clay pot

Provide fresh, circulating air for your orchid.

“Fresh air, ideally between 60 and 75°F, helps to prevent fungal disease in houseplants,” he says. “Just avoid placing them directly below vents.”

Don’t Use Ice Cubes

Person watering a pink orchid plant with ice cubes

According to a popular orchid-maintaining hack, you can simply place an ice cube onto your soil, and your orchid will thrive. This method is not ideal.

“Ice cubes don’t water and drain properly,” Overgaag says. “Orchids are also tropical plants and don’t enjoy ice on their roots, and it will be tough to get your orchid to retain vigor and to re-bloom.”

Look for Signs to Repot

Preparing to repot the orchid in a new pot

Examine your orchid regularly to see if it looks waterlogged, breaks, or appears to be outgrowing its current home. Overgaag tells us these are all signs to repot.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR