They are one of the most beautiful flowers found in the world today yet they are somewhat difficult to get to bloom. For your orchid to bloom, you have to learn its uniqueness as regards lighting, heat, and moisture.
This guide is aimed at helping you understand how to make your orchid grow well and bloom the beautiful flowers that you have always wanted. Here is how to bloom orchids:
1. Provide Adequate Light
Some of the requirements for an orchid to bloom include having bright but indirect lighting. Put them in a bright location, preferably in an area that receives filtered light from the sun or under artificial lighting.
Leaves can be burnt by direct sunlight, so covering them with sheer curtains or shades is necessary. There is always a limit to the amount of light needed for proper blooming, too much of it can harm the plant.
How to fix:
If your orchid is not exposed enough to light, try to take it closer to a window or adjust the position of the grow light to give it bright light. If the light is to bright, opt to cover it with sheer curtains or shades to soften the light. For orchids that are stretching out or have little blooms, more light often promotes blooms to the plant.
2. Adjust Temperature
They prefer moderate light conditions and stable temperatures of approximately 65-75°F (18-24°C) in the daytime and a bit lower at night. A variation of temperature of 10°F (5°C) between the daytime and nighttime can be conducive to blooming.
Stable conditions and the prevention of thermal shock are inevitable. The plant can be stressed if the temperature is too high or too low thus resulting in poor blooming or dropping of the leaves. Make sure that the temperature of the environment in which your orchid is placed corresponds to its type.
How to fix:
If the temperatures are too high or too low orchid must be taken to a room where the temperatures will be stable. Make sure the plant is not placed near draft, heaters or air conditioners. Take a thermometer to check the temperature and add or remove the plant from another room with more appropriate temperature conditions.
Orchids should be watered when the surface of the growing medium looks dry, that is when there is one inch of space between the surface and the water level. Both over-watering and under-watering can cause some stress on the plant and/or inhibit blooming.
Water used should be at room temperature and the pot should be well drained to avoid water logging and root rot. The frequency with which watering is done may depend on factors such as humidity, temperature, or the growing medium of the orchid.
How to fix:
Regarding overwatering problems, check if there is proper drainage for the pot and water less frequently. Water the plants only when the upper inch of the growing medium is dry.
For underwatering, water the plant more often and make sure it has enough water. Water the plant less frequently or more frequently depending on the needs of the plant and the climate.
4. Maintain Proper Humidity
Orchids require humidity in their environment and are comfortable at about 40-60% humidity. This can be done through the use of the humidity tray, room humidifier or by frequently spraying the plant.
Lack of moisture in the indoor environment affects the flowering and causes stress. A humidity tray entails placing the pot on a tray containing water and pebbles, so the water evaporates and raises humidity around the plant.
How to fix:
If the air in the area with the plant is too dry, use a room humidifier, or a humidity tray, or spray the plant with water frequently. Ensure the pot is located on a humidity tray containing water and pebbles and avoid placing the orchid close to the heater, which can cause evaporation of moisture in the air.
Always monitor and control the humidity level in the surrounding vicinity of your orchid.
5. Fertilize Regularly
Orchids should be fed at least once a week using a balanced water soluble fertilizer that is preferably a 30-10-10 or 20-20-20 formula. It is recommended to fertilize every two to four weeks during the growing season and less frequently during the winter.
Fertilization offers required nutrients that play a significant role in the development of flowers and fruits. Over feeding may threaten the plant, so always adhere to the instructions and change the fertilizer feeding according to the growth pattern of the plant.
How to fix:
If your orchid is not flowering even with feeding, make sure to use a correctly balanced water soluble fertilizer. Ensure that you are using the correct quantity of fertilizer not to over-fertilize the plant since this may harm it. If needed, use a bloom booster containing more phosphorus to stimulate flowers to set on the intended blooms.
Transplant orchids every year or every 2 years to change the growing medium and wash out salts. Transplanting promotes root development and can also initiate flowering.
Prepare an orchid mix with good drainage and select a pot size one size larger than the plant currently resides in. Transplant the plant carefully, prune the roots, if necessary, and put the plant into the new pot with new soil. It can also be used to solve problems such as rotting of the roots or cases where the plants are overcrowded.
How to fix:
If roots are crowded or the medium is degraded, repot your orchid in a fresh, well-drained orchid mix. Select a pot that is just a little bigger than the current one and carefully prune off any dead or damaged roots. The plant will need to be re-potted in order for it to get fresh soil and nutrients that will boost new growth and flowers.
7. Ensure Good Air Circulation
Proper ventilation is important in reducing fungal diseases and in promoting plant growth. Keep orchids in zones with moderate and constant air movement and avoid exposure to cold drafts or drafts-less environments. Make sure there is adequate breathing space around the plant.
Cross ventilation helps avoid mold and mildew formation which hamper flowering. Proper air circulation around the orchid can be enhanced through the use of a small fan or placing the plant in a room with adequate ventilation.
How to fix:
Increase ventilation by placing the orchid in an area with ample fresh air circulation. Do not over cram the plant and ensure it is not placed in a stagnant or draughty area of the house. The use of a small fan can be needed for increasing air circulation around the plant, as it reduces risks of fungal diseases and contributes to proper development.
8. Use a Bloom Booster
There are specific bloom boosters that contain phosphorus that helps in the flowering process. These fertilizers enhance the growth of flower spikes and blooms. Pay attention to manufacturer recommendations on the rate and timing of application.
Bloom boosters are usually applied during the growing period in order to improve flower production. They should be used in combination with other fertilizers to avoid overloading the crops with certain nutrients at the same time.
How to fix:
If your orchid is not flowering, it may be useful to use a bloom booster fertilizer. Use it as directed by the manufacturer, particularly on products that are high in phosphorus. Make sure you continue with regular fertilization and don’t overuse the bloom booster, as this can lead to nutrient imbalances.
Some of the orchids require a resting time in order to bloom again. Water the plant less frequently, feed it less often, and move it to a cooler and drier location for about two to three weeks.
This rest period replicates natural conditions that may cause blooming. After this, return to normal care so as to encourage the plant to grow new flower spikes from the heart of the plant. This strategy assists the plant in saving energy and getting ready for the next blooming phase.
How to fix:
Orchids that do not bloom can be given a break by decreasing the water and fertilizer supply to the plant. Take the plant and shift it to a cooler and drier place for a couple of weeks. Once the rest period is over, go back to normal care to encourage the plant to bloom freely.
10. Prune Dead or Dying Flowers
Deadhead spent blooms and expired flower spikes to foster new blooms. Remove the old spikes that have faded by cutting them close to the base using clean and sharp scissors or pruning shears.
It also assists the plant in directing its energy towards the growth of new flowers instead of unnecessarily supporting old flowers. Trimming also enhances the flow of air in the plant and can control diseases that may hinder flowering.
How to fix:
Deadhead by cutting off spent flowers and flower spikes using clean sharp scissors or pruners. Trim the spikes right to the base to make the plant concentrate on developing new flowers. This ensures that disease is controlled and that the plant stays healthy, which increases the chances of producing new flowers.
11. Check for Pests
If you notice some scale, mealybugs, or aphids, inspect your orchid often for them. These pests can exert pressure on the plant and reduce flowering. Some of the most common indicators include the presence of a sticky substance, web-like structures, or actual insects on the plant.
Any infestations should be treated immediately with recommended insecticides or natural products such as neem oil. If you want to ensure your plant grows healthy and produces lovely blooms, you need to eliminate pests from your plant.
How to fix:
Always check your orchid for pests and control the pests as soon as you notice them. Make sure to adhere to the product instructions and observe the plant to avoid future pest issues. Ensure you follow the product instructions carefully and monitor the plant to prevent future pest problems.
Tall flower spikes may require staking to avoid bending or breaking. Place stakes or ties around the spikes and ensure that they hold them in an upright position.
Select supports that are strong but not overly large or conspicuous, and mount them without harming the plant. Offering assistance means that the flowers are protected and arranged well in a way that makes them look great before they wilt away.
How to fix:
If flower spikes are bending or breaking should be staked or tied. Secure the spikes in a way that will not harm the plant and change them as the spikes grow taller. Proper support is essential for flowers to stand straight and remain healthy as well as to appear more appealing.
Orchids are a large and cosmopolitan taxonomic group of flowering plants classified under the family Orchidaceae. They are also famous for their specialized and distinctive flower forms.
It is used for ornamental purposes due to its huge variety in terms of size, shape, and colors. They are also located in tropical rainforests and other regions with moderate climatic conditions. Here is an overview of it.
Flowers: Most orchids may have three sepals and three petals with one petal transformed into a labellum, usually in a different color or form as an attractant to pollinators.
Growth Habit: Orchids can be terrestrial or epiphyte, meaning they can grow in the ground or on other structures or plants.
Leaves: Some orchid has broad and expanded leaves while others have narrow and long leaves according to species.
Roots: Orchids growing on trees have specialized roots that suck moisture and nutrients from the surrounding air and water.
When Does Orchid Bloom?
It is important to note that orchids are different flowers with different species and hybrids that bloom at different times. Here’s a general guide to when orchids bloom based on seasons.
Winter Bloom
Phalaenopsis Orchids: Also known as moth orchids, these are some of the most popular types of orchids and bloom from late fall up to early spring. They are known to bloom continuously for many months.
Cattleya Orchids: Some varieties such as Cattleya can also bloom during winter break depending on the climate of the region that it is being grown. Its blossoms are large and ostentatious and usually produced during the winter season.
Spring Bloom
Dendrobium Orchids: Some of the species of Dendrobium orchids have been documented to flower in the springtime. They can bloom as often as once a year, and create astonishing inflorescence grouped into several colors.
Oncidium Orchids: Also called dancing lady orchids, these typically begin to flower in early spring. These plants are notable for their inflorescence shapes and their profuse flowering habit.
Cymbidium Orchids: These orchids typically flower in winter to early spring. They are used due to longer-lasting flowers and may have more than one flowering spike at a time.
Summer Bloom
Vanda Orchids: It is also important to note that some Vanda species may bloom during summer. They are used especially in summer because of their bright colors and rich smell.
Paphiopedilum Orchids: These plants are usually called lady slippers, and although they are associated with summer blooms, the timing of flowering can depend on the particular type of the plant and the conditions in which it is grown.
Fall Bloom
Miltoniopsis Orchids: Also known as the pansy orchids, these plants are known to bloom in the fall season. It has large open flowers that resemble a pansy.
Brassia Orchids: Some of these orchids are known as spider orchids and might flower in the autumn with distinct, elongated, spider-like flowers.
