Orchids, especially the most common ones from the Phalaenopsis genus, are fascinating plants. Many people throw them away immediately after flowering, thinking they are “finished”. All you need to do is know a few tricks that simulate their natural environment in the rainforest.
Here is a recipe for your orchid to put out buds again and again:
- “Shock therapy” for flowering 🌡️
If your orchid is just leafing out and refusing to bloom, it needs an impulse. In nature, flowering is triggered by a drop in temperature.
Trick: Try moving it to a cooler place (around 15–16 °C) for 2–3 weeks, such as a bedroom or hallway.
Result: The plant will sense the change and, in an attempt to survive, will send out a new flower stalk.
- Proper watering (Bath, not shower) 🛁
Orchids do not like “wet feet”. If they stand in water, their roots will rot (turn black and soften).
Technique: Once a week, place the inner transparent pot in a container with standing water for 15–20 minutes. Then let the water drain thoroughly.
Indicator: Watch the roots. If they are silver-gray, the plant is thirsty. If they are green, it has enough moisture.
- The secret of the transparent pot 💡
You may have noticed that orchids are sold in plastic transparent containers. This is not due to design!
Photosynthesis of the roots: The roots of orchids (epiphytes) need light just like the leaves. Never store them in opaque ceramic containers without access to light. If you want a decorative pot, it should be wide enough for light to penetrate the roots.
- What to do with a dead stem? ✂️
This is where most people make a mistake. You have three options:
Cut above the 3rd eye: If the stem is still green, cut it about 1 cm above the third “knee” (eye) from the bottom. It will often grow a new side stem from there.
Leave it alone: If the stem does not dry out, the plant can lengthen it and continue to bloom.
Cut completely: If the stem turns brown and dry, cut it off right next to the leaves. The plant will rest and gain strength for a completely new, stronger shoot.
💡 Extra “old-fashioned” tips for shiny leaves
Tip How to do it Effect
Lemon water A few drops of lemon in water to rub on the leaves. It will remove lime stains and the leaves will shine.
Banana peel Rub the inside of the peel over the leaves. It acts as a natural fertilizer and dust repellent.
Rice water The water you used to wash the rice in (unsalted!). It contains minerals that orchids love.
My observation: Orchids love morning sun, but they hate midday sun. If your leaves have brown spots, they probably got “burned” on the window. An east-facing window is ideal.
Do you have an orchid at home that hasn’t bloomed in a long time, or are you struggling with its aerial roots drying out?