So, you want to start growing orchids but don’t know where to begin?

There’s a lot of information available about growing orchids, and it can be hard to know where to start. For instance, what type of orchid should you buy? What kind of soil do they need? How much water do they need? And what about light requirements?

So, let’s look at some general information about orchid growing for beginners to equip you with information that you can apply to all types of orchids.

Selecting the right orchid

Most orchids that are available today in the United States are hybrids. This means that they are a cross between two different species of orchids. There are a few things to consider when growing orchids, no matter what type of orchid you have.

It’s important to pick one that is healthy. When you’re picking out an orchid, look for one that has healthy leaves. Healthy leaves have a stiff, leather-like texture.

If the leaves are a dark green color, it’s a sign that the orchid has not been exposed to enough light. Now, this can be taken care of once in your home as you control the light that the orchid gets. Still, you may want to reconsider your purchase if it is already blooming because the flowers will start to fade.

Also, make sure that the pseudobulbs (the stem of the orchid) are firm and have no wrinkling. This is a sign that the orchid has been over-watered and is in bad shape.

If any part of the plant is black or brown, find another one, as this means that the orchid is rotting, and it will likely not survive.

Furthermore, be sure to check the roots of the orchid. They should be light-colored and firm. If they are brown, it’s an indication that the orchid has been dry for too long, further reducing its survival potential.

Soil and light requirements

Orchids are epiphytes and as such, they do not require soil to grow. In nature, orchids attach themselves to trees and other objects and use the air as their source of nutrients.

Most orchids that are available for sale in the United States are grown in a potting mix that is designed to simulate the conditions that would be found in nature. The specialized mix is made from a variety of materials, including bark, vermiculite, sphagnum moss, charcoal, and perlite.

When considering a container for your orchid, it should be light-weight and have drainage holes. You don’t want the pot to be so heavy that it will pull the orchid down when you water it.

In terms of light requirements most orchids do best when they receive bright, indirect sunlight for at least six hours a day.

Direct sunlight can cause the leaves of an orchid to sunburn and the flowers to fade.

Fertilizer

Orchids do not need a lot of fertilizer, but they do need some. You can buy orchid fertilizer at most garden stores.

Fertilize your orchid every two to four weeks, using only a teaspoon of fertilizer at a time.

Best way to water orchids

One of the most important things to remember when growing orchids is that they need water, but you don’t want to water them too much. In nature, orchids get their water from the mist and fog that is in the air.

When you water orchids, be sure to pour the water directly onto the potting mix and not on the leaves. You can tell if the potting mix is wet by sticking your finger into it. If it’s wet, don’t water it again for a few days. If it’s dry, then you can water it.

Another thing to remember is that orchids like humidity. You can increase the humidity around your orchid by placing it on a tray of wet pebbles. The water will evaporate and create a humid environment for the orchid.

Typical watering mistakes

• Overwatering: orchids should not sit in still water, as this will cause root rot
• Using the wrong type of water: softened water should not be used on orchids, as the salt content can damage them
• Watering at night: water should only be given to orchids in the morning so that the plant has time to dry before nightfall, as this will help to prevent fungus from growing

Good watering practices

• Water thoroughly, making sure to get water into the potting mix and not on the leaves
• Wait until the potting mix is dry before watering again; you can tell this by sticking your finger into the mix
• Use room-temperature water, as orchids do not like cold water

Now, another popular notion is watering your orchid with 3 ice cubes a week. By doing this, you are slowly hydrating the plant and simulating the rainforest environment that orchids come from. Opinions vary on this method, and it is ultimately up to the grower to decide what works best for their orchid.

See video below for a demonstration on watering with ice cubes.

Airflow

Orchids need air to grow, just like they need water. In fact, one of the most common reasons for orchid death is a lack of air circulation.

When you’re growing orchids, be sure to place them in an area where they will get plenty of airflow. This could mean placing them on a shelf near an open window or using a fan to circulate the air around them.

Too much humidity and not enough airflow can cause orchids to develop fungus, which can lead to root rot and death.

Best orchids for beginners

These orchids are among the easiest to grow and are a great choice for beginners:

Phalaenopsis amabilis

This orchid is also known as the Moth Orchid. It has dark green leaves and white, pink, or lavender flowers.

Cattleya (or Laelia)

This orchid has large, showy flowers in a variety of colors, including purple, yellow, and red.

Dendrobium nobile

This orchid has long, thin leaves and white, pink, purple or yellow flowers.

Oncidium (or Brassia)

This orchid is characterized by its small, colorful flowers.

Cymbidium ensifolium

This orchid has long, sword-shaped leaves and green, yellow, bronze or red flowers.

Orchid stems

Stems need to be supported by a stake or trellis when they are growing. This will help to keep the plant upright and prevent it from falling over. Using a small clip to hold the stem in place can also be helpful.

When to repot an orchid

Orchids should be repotted every two to three years, depending on the size of the pot and the type of orchid. You can tell when it is time to repot an orchid by the size of the pot and the number of roots that are growing out of the pot.

If the pot is too small, the roots will not have enough space to grow, and the orchid will not be able to get the nutrients that it needs. If there are a lot of roots growing out of the pot, this means that the orchid is becoming root-bound and needs to be repotted.

When choosing a pot for your orchid, make sure that the pot has drainage holes so that the water can escape.

Are orchids pet-safe?

Most orchids are non-toxic to pets but be sure to research the specific variety that you have, to make sure.

Summary

Now that you have some general information about orchid growing for beginners, it’s time to get started. Begin by selecting the right orchid for your conditions and then follow the guidelines we’ve outlined for soil, light, water and airflow. With a little bit of practice, you will be able to create an environment where your orchids thrive.