Five common orchid mistakes to avoid – they’ll ‘lose blooms’
Phalaenopsis Orchids: Expert shares how to care for plant
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Orchids are widely considered one of the most beautiful flowers in the world, and for a good reason – their delicate grace and exotic symmetry make a lovely addition to most decor. While orchids have also earned a reputation as a low maintenance houseplant that is easy to care for, even low maintenance plants have specific needs. As a result, many people still experience roadblocks to proper orchid care.
Plant experts at Flower Works, a European-style luxury flower shop, have shared their top five common mistakes when it comes to caring for orchids and how to avoid them.
The explained: “Some orchid mistakes can lead to stunted growth or poor flowering, while others can be life-threatening to your orchid.
“Fortunately, many mistakes are relatively simple to address. Here are some of the most common orchid mistakes—and how you can fix them.”
1. Overwatering or underwatering
This is a mistake that is often made by beginner orchid growers. Beginners tend to be overenthusiastic when it comes to providing care for their orchids, and they may end up overwatering their plants.
The experts said: “Although orchids are tropical plants, they don’t need as much water as many houseplants. Watering too much can lead to root rot and fungal infections.”
Instead they suggested only watering the plant every seven to 10 days, or just whenever the mix “gets dry”.
As well as overwatering, it’s still possible to underwater an orchid – this is equally as bad for your houseplant.
The flower pros warned: “Keeping the mix too dry can result in shrivelled, grey roots and cause the orchid to lose blooms. Develop a watering schedule to ensure your orchid receives enough water—about a quarter of a cup per session.”
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2. Watering orchids from above
While this may not sound like a big issue, watering orchids from above as opposed to from the bottom can cause damage.
The experts said: “A stream of water can damage flowers and leaves, and even cause rotting over time. Instead, water the potting mix directly.”
3. Promoting low humidity
For those who are living in an area that has low humidity, remember to provide artificial humidity for your orchid.
This can be done by misting the indoor plant from time to time or placing a humidity tray underneath it’s pot.
The plant pros suggested: “If you live in a dry climate, utilise a dehumidifier, or crank up the heat in the winter, you may be dehydrating your orchid.
“Keep humidity between 55 and 75 percent. If needed, use a humidifier or consider misting your orchid’s leaves occasionally to maintain proper moisture.”
4. Improper lighting
It is also important that gardeners do not expose their orchid to too much sunlight.
Orchids grow best under indirect sunlight and they should be placed in a south or east-facing window.
Gardeners can find out if their orchid is getting the right amount of sunlight by observing its leaves.
5. Cutting extra growths
If your orchid produces aerial roots, false or pseudobulbs, or canes, owners should leave them alone, according to the experts.
They may look like unruly straws that need to be trimmed, but these are very important parts in the orchid’s growing process.
They flower gurus said: “Roots and canes are a sign of healthy growth, while pseudobulbs can store energy and promote the continued blooming and growth of your orchid.”
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