On the windowsill, orchids catapult the floral decoration into noble, elegant dimensions, far away from the crude look of mother-in-law's tongues in the 80s and 90s. You can find out here under what conditions the exotic flower beauties grow and thrive in this exposed location.
How to care for orchids on the windowsill?
Orchids thrive on the windowsill in a bright to partially shaded location without direct sun, warm temperatures (18-25°C), high humidity (>50%) and suitable accessories such as special flower pots and humidifiers. West or east windows are ideal, south windows require shading.
Probate light and temperature conditions – tips for the right location
The most beautiful orchid species are native to the rainforests of the world. In the warm, humid climate they sit high up on the branches, while the dense canopy of leaves softens the blazing sun. The closer the conditions on the windowsill come to these criteria, the more vitally the royal flowers will thrive:
- A bright to partially shaded location, without direct sunlight
- Warm temperatures with an average level of 18 to 25 degrees Celsius
- High humidity of more than 50 percent
The light requirements are perfectly covered on the west and east windows. A place at the south window is conceivable, provided there is shading at lunchtime in the form of an awning or curtain. Individual species, such as Dendrobium kingianum or Calanthe vestita, also accept the windowsill on the north side of the house.
Useful accessories make care easier
Regardless of which orchid your gardener loves, caring for it on the windowsill is easier with these accessories:
- Special flower pots with an internal pedestal for the transparent culture pot
- Humidifiers, indoor fountains or bowls filled with water for high humidity
- Thermometer for monitoring local temperature
- Hygrometer to determine the humidity around the windowsill
If your orchid gets too hot on the windowsill in summer, a small air conditioning system (€39.00 on Amazon) will keep it cool. If this investment is too expensive for you, line the planter with sphagnum. By keeping the moss continually moist, the evaporating water cools the heated orchid slightly. At the same time, the humidity remains at a high level.
Tip
There are suitable orchids to discover for almost every room in the house. For the bright, steam-saturated bathroom, the furious Vanda comes into focus. Numerous varieties of lady's slipper or Dendrobium nobile hybrids feel at home in the unheated, light-flooded bedroom. Simply ask the breeder to enjoy magnificent orchids in every living space.
