Tips on How to Grow Healthy Orchids

Tips on How to Grow Healthy Orchids
Orchids are the most gorgeous flowers in Singapore that are breathtakingly beautiful and are the favourite of those with a green thumb. A single orchid plant is enough to furnish your entire home and patio with beauty and soothing fragrances. However, if you are new to the world of this fascinating plant, don’t worry. We’ve got you covered! Here are the basics and tips for growing healthy Orchids.

What are the Light Requirements of Orchids?

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="309"]Good Vibes Summer GIF Source: GIPHY[/caption] Orchids survive strong and bright but indirect sunlight. The basic thumb rule here is to offer your Orchid at least 12 hours of partial sunlight, year-round. Rest, the amount of light varies depending on the type of Orchid. For example, Cattleya and Vanda are the types of Orchids that thrive on bright light. Whereas Paphiopedilum and Phalaenopsis prefer low light. The ideal place to put your Orchid is a spot that receives bright, indirect sunshine.

How to Water Orchids?

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="309"] Source: GIPHY[/caption] Orchids should be watered only when their soil has completely dried out. Over-watering may lead to rot and eventually, kill their roots. If you cannot figure out whether or not the soil is drying out, you can pick up the pot and check whether it feels light. If yes, it means that it probably needs a refill. 

What are their Fertilising Needs?

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="341"]hey arnold nicksplat GIF Source: GIPHY[/caption] Fertilisers are important to keep Orchids beautiful and healthy. Feed your Orchids, once a month, with a water-soluble, balanced fertiliser that is diluted to half strength. Check for the instruction manual to know which fertiliser is suited for your Orchids. The expert tip to grow and care for Orchids is to maintain the ratio of N-P-K as 30-10-10. To feed your Orchids with micronutrients, mist them with seaweed extracts and fish emulsion.

What Temperature & Humidity do Orchids Require?

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="401"]Still Life Plants GIF by jjjjjohn Source: GIPHY[/caption] The temperature and humidity an Orchid needs depend on the type you own. For example, moth Orchids perform well when kept at normal room temperature. On the other hand, Dendrobiums work well when kept at a cooler temperature. The majority of Orchids prefer humid environments. A simple way to increase moisture in the air (surrounding the plant) is by placing your Orchid on a humidity tray.

Do Orchids Require Repotting?

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="326"]Valentines Day Love GIF by CsaK Source: GIPHY[/caption] You may repot your Orchids into a fresh potting mix every 1-2 years. Make sure you use a potting mix specifically for them. So there you have all the Orchid care tips! With the right care and diligence, an orchid can thrive, survive and stay as good as new. A well-cared orchid will also provide continuous blooms all year long. Rest, keep watching this space for more orchid plant care guides.

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Anushka Jain