With elegance and grace, the orchid has become one of the most popular houseplants. The noble flower from the rainforests requires some rethinking in its cultivation. Using the example of a Phalaenopsis, we will explain in a practical way how you can skillfully care for an indoor orchid.
How to care for an orchid as a houseplant?
To optimally care for an orchid as a houseplant, dip the roots weekly in lime-free water, use special orchid fertilizer and choose a coarse substrate such as pine bark. Avoid direct sunlight and only cut yellowed plant parts.
Root bath in soft water is ideal
In its homeland, the Phalaenopsis orchid thrives as an epiphyte. Their aerial roots extract vital moisture from the short but heavy rain showers. How to perfectly simulate the natural conditions:
- Dip the well-dried root network into a bucket of lime-free water
- Then allow the excess water to drain off thoroughly
In summer, cover your water needs with a weekly root bath. In winter the intervals are extended depending on the season.
Fertilize sensitively in coarse substrate – this is how it works
An indoor orchid does not want to be bothered with fine, crumbly potting soil. Therefore, care for the epiphytic flower beauty in special orchid soil made from coarse components, such as pine bark. Anyone who has such specific requirements for the substrate will not be satisfied with commercially available flower fertilizer. How to fertilize an orchid as a houseplant with expertise:
- Pamper an indoor orchid with a liquid orchid fertilizer from April to October
- Add the fertilizer to the water every third root bath
From November to March, stop supplying nutrients completely if the orchid takes a break in growth. If the flower festival continues in winter or if fresh shoots appear, continue to fertilize every 6 to 8 weeks.
Cutting is rare on an indoor orchid
There is a simple rule of thumb when cutting Phalaenopsis and other types of orchids: Green parts of the plant are not cut. Simply pluck out dead flowers. As long as a leaf, shoot or bulb is still green, this segment must not be removed. The nutrients contained therein must first be relocated to the roots. Only when the rich green has given way to a dull yellow are the freshly sharpened, meticulously cleaned scissors used.
Tip
Never expose an indoor orchid to the blazing summer sun. In their habitat, the epiphytes always have the protective canopy of leaves of jungle trees above them. Therefore, choose a location on the west or east window where the proud flowering beauty can enjoy mild sunshine in the morning or evening.
