How to Take Care of Orchids: A Complete Guide

Elegant, exotic, and endlessly fascinating, orchids are among the most loved flowers in the world.

Their delicate appearance hides a surprising strength — but they do require thoughtful care to stay healthy and beautiful.

At FlowerStop, we work with a wide variety of orchids, including the popular Phalaenopsis, Dendrobium, and Cattleya, and we know exactly what they need to flourish in a home environment.

Here is your complete guide to caring for orchids the right way.

1. Choosing the Right Orchid

Not all orchids require the same level of attention.

If you’re just starting, consider beginner-friendly varieties:

• Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid) – Perfect for beginners; thrives indoors.
• Dendrobium – Graceful stems, slightly more light-loving.
• Cattleya – Known for large, fragrant blooms; needs brighter, indirect light.

When purchasing, choose orchids with firm leaves, healthy roots, and unopened buds for longer blooming indoors.

2. Light: Bright but Indirect

Light is one of the most important factors in orchid care.

Orchids love:

• bright, indirect sunlight
• filtered morning sun
• east- or north-facing windows

Avoid:

• harsh midday sunlight
• placing orchids in direct beams (it burns the leaves)

If the leaves turn yellow or pale, the orchid is receiving too much light.

If leaves look very dark green, the orchid may need more light.

3. Temperature & Humidity

Because orchids originate from tropical climates, they thrive in warm, humid environments.

Ideal temperatures:

• Day: 70–85°F (21–29°C)
• Night: 55–65°F (13–18°C)

Humidity:

Aim for 40–70%.

Increase moisture by:

• using a humidifier
• placing a tray of water near the orchid
• grouping plants together

This is especially important during winter, when indoor heating dries the air.

4. Watering Orchids Correctly

Most people accidentally overwater orchids — the most common cause of plant failure.

General rule:

• Water every 7–14 days, depending on temperature, potting mix, and humidity.
• Allow the potting medium to dry slightly before watering again.

Tips:

• Use room-temperature water
• Let water drain completely (never let roots sit in water)
• Clear pots help monitor root health

5. Choosing the Right Pot or Vase

Orchids grow best in small, breathable containers.

Choose a pot that is:

• one-third the height of the plant
• well-ventilated
• made of plastic, ceramic, or clay with drainage holes

Repot your orchid every 2–3 years, or when the potting medium breaks down.

6. Feeding & Fertilizing

Orchids need regular feeding — but gently.

Use a balanced orchid-specific fertilizer, diluted to half-strength.

Fertilize:

• every 2–4 weeks during spring & summer (growing season)
• reduce or pause in fall & winter (rest period)

Avoid overfeeding, which can burn roots.

7. Encouraging Blooming

Orchids rebloom when they receive proper light, consistent watering, and slight nighttime temperature drops.

To support blooming:

• provide bright indirect light
• feed lightly during the growing period
• avoid moving the plant frequently
• cut spent flower spikes above a node (for Phalaenopsis)

This encourages new growth and future blooms.

8. Pruning & Maintenance

Trim orchids regularly to keep them healthy.

Remove:

• yellow or damaged leaves
• dried flower spikes
• dead roots during repotting

Always use sterilized scissors to prevent bacterial spread.

9. Air Circulation

Orchids need gentle airflow to prevent fungal infections.

Use:

• a small fan nearby, facing away
• open windows for natural airflow

Avoid strong drafts, air conditioners, or heaters directly blowing on the plant.

10. Pests & Diseases

Common orchid pests include:

• thrips
• mealybugs
• spider mites

If you notice pests:

• isolate the plant
• treat with orchid-safe insecticides
• wipe leaves gently with a damp cloth

Watch for disease signs such as black spots, soft stems, or sudden yellowing — early detection makes all the difference.

The Orchid Family: A World of Diversity

With 22,000+ species and hundreds of thousands of hybrids, orchids are one of the most diverse flowering families on Earth.

They grow as:

• Epiphytes (air plants on trees)
• Lithophytes (plants growing on rocks)
• Terrestrial orchids (growing in soil)

Hybrid orchids today are bred for features like color, fragrance, bloom size, and resilience.

In Conclusion

Orchids may appear delicate, but with proper care — the right light, temperature, watering routine, and airflow — they can thrive for years and rebloom beautifully.

Whether you’re a beginner or a passionate collector, orchids bring elegance and serenity to any space.

And at FlowerStop LA, we offer premium orchids and same-day delivery across Los Angeles — always handled with care, always fresh, always stunning.