To grow an orchid, you have to think like an orchid. The golden rule for orchid success is to duplicate the plant’s natural conditions as closely as possible. In nature, most orchids are epiphytes, meaning they grow on other objects, clinging to rough bark or even stone. The showy orchids favored by most people are usually either phalaenopsis hybrids (so-called moth orchids) or dendrobium hybrids.

Optimal Growing Conditions for Orchid Plants

These plants thrive in strong light, but not direct late-afternoon sunlight (although dendrobiums can handle more sun). They also need high humidity and turbulent airflow around the roots. They need regular periods of drying alternated with heavy watering (or drenching rains). Orchids do best in temperatures above 50 degrees but below 85 degrees.

Repotting Orchids for Success

The first step with any store-bought orchid is to enjoy the bloom. Don’t attempt to re-pot a flowering plant.

After the bloom is done, go ahead and cut off the dead flower spike with sterile snippers and repot the plant. Orchids should be potted into specialized orchid pots in an orchid mixture. Orchid pots feature wide drainage slits so water will literally run through the pot. They are widely available. Orchid potting mixture is usually composed of several chunky ingredients, including pine bark, charcoal, and even styrofoam.

To re-pot your orchid, follow these steps: