Winter Orchid Care

Orchids are my absolute favorite (among Stargazer Lilies, Sweet Peas, and Cherry Blossoms - I have lots of favorites), however, I have had some difficulty keeping them healthy during the cold and light-starved winter months. Be it too much watering or too little fertilizing, I just can't seem to get it perfect (and, unfortunately, I am a perfectionist at heart). So, I (finally) decided to do some real research on just how picky these lovely plants are and how I can keep them looking so lovely. Here's what I found out!

1. Orchids grow slower during the winter months with less light and cooler temperatures, therefore they need less water and food overall. Let your orchids dry out slightly unless they are in bloom (or if they are a breed of orchid that likes to be moist all the time). Same goes for food, unless they're actively producing new growths, reduce the number of feedings to about once or twice a month.
2. Dry air can cause buds to drop quickly. Orchids prefer 40-80% humidity, whereas most homes are 40-50%. If your home's on the dry side, consider a humidifer or humidity tray (trays filled with pebbles and water) near the plants, and keep them away from vents, fireplaces, and other sources of dry heat.
3. When you do water your orchids, water them early in the day so they're dry by nightfall. This helps prevent fungal and bacterial infections that can occur when cool, damp conditions prevail.
4. Some orchids may need more light, meaning artificial light. High-intensity light plants need about 12 to 14 hours of light during their growing season; less than that puts them at a disadvantage for generating buds and blooms.
5. Most orchids need temperatures between 55-80 degrees Fahrenheit. If your orchids are outdoors, you'll need to bring them inside during the winter months.
6. The most common sign of cold injury is pitting marks on the leaves, which leads to brown leaves.

photo courtesy of flickr: NC Orchid