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Winter-blooming orchids, once the pricey hobby of only the most dedicated plant lover, may seem like the last houseplant you'd be able to grow with ease. Not true, for while they have a diva reputation, many winter-blooming orchid varieties are no more trouble to grow at home than the average fern. But before you succumb to that gotta-have-it moment when met with a table of lush, flowering orchids, you need to know the right plant for the right place. If you first identify the indoor conditions with which you have to work, and then match them up with an orchid that will simply love it there, you can have a nearly foolproof growing experience.
Quick Answers to Common Orchid Questions 1. How do I make my moth orchid rebloom? No other orchid is as easy to coax into a second bloom. After the flowers have dropped off the stem, find the third node from the bottom of the plant, and clip above that point with clean, sharp pruners. The node is the knuckle-like bump that appear on the stem. The plant will rebloom from this point with smaller yet equally chic flowers.
2. What is the most common mistake when growing orchids? Overwatering. Even when following our guidelines, always check the planting medium before watering. It should be somewhat dry; if you're unsure, wait. Orchids tolerate underwatering considerably better than overwatering. 3. How often should I repot my orchid? Repot every two years, generally in spring or summer or whenever the blooming period has ended. Many orchids are planted in bark, which decomposes quickly. Once it breaks down, it acts like a sponge holding moisture. 4. Why didn't my orchid rebloom? If your plant is healthy but not reblooming, it probably needs more light. Few orchids can tolerate really direct light or really low light. If your orchid fails to rebloom, try moving it to a different window. Choose the Right Orchid for Your Home Where's the light?
My window faces . . .
East (filtered light all day or morning sun only)
West (filtered light all day or afternoon sun only)
South (bright sun all day)
North (insufficient light, for the most part) What's the temperature?
My room's nighttime temperature is . . .
Chilly (55-60 degrees)
Cool (60-65 degrees)
Comfy (65-70 degrees)
Warm (70-75 degrees) How's the humidity?
My room's moisture level is . . .
Low (a cool room with no source of moisture, such as a guest room)
Medium (a heated room with some moisture, such as a bedroom or living room)
High (a heated room with lots of moisture, such as a bath or kitchen) Now, click to the next page to see examples and growing tips for 6 common orchids that work with your room conditions.
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