With elegance and grace, the orchid has blossomed into one of the most popular indoor plants. The noble flower from the rain forests requires a rethinking in some points within the scope of its cultivation. Using the example of a Phalaenopsis, we explain here in a practice-oriented manner how to skilfully care for an indoor orchid.

Orchids like light locations

Root bath in soft water is ideal

In its homeland, the Phalaenopsis orchid thrives as an epiphyte. Their aerial roots take the vital moisture from the short but heavy rain showers. This is how you simulate the natural framework conditions perfectly:

  • Dip the well-dried root system in a bucket of lime-free water
  • Then let the excess water run off well

In summer, cover the water requirement with a weekly root bath. In winter, the intervals are extended according to the season.

Fertilize sensitively in the coarse substrate - this is how it works

An indoor orchid does not want to be bothered with finely crumbly potting soil. Therefore, care for the epiphytic flower beauty in special orchid soil made of coarse components such as pine bark. Anyone who places such specific demands on the substrate will also not be satisfied with commercially available flower fertilizer (€1.95). How to fertilize an orchid as a houseplant with expertise:

  • Spoil an indoor orchid from April to October with a liquid orchid fertilizer
  • Add the fertilizer to the water every third root bath

From November to March, completely stop nutrient supply if the orchid takes a break from growing. If the flower festival continues in winter or if there is a fresh shoot, continue to fertilize at intervals of 6 to 8 weeks.

Pruning is a rarity on an indoor orchid

There is a simple rule of thumb for cutting Phalaenopsis and other types of orchids: Green parts of the plant are not cut. Simply pluck out faded flowers. As long as a leaf, shoot or bulb is still green, this segment may not be removed. The nutrients contained therein must first be transferred to the roots. The freshly sharpened, meticulously cleaned scissors are only used when the rich green has given way to a matt yellow.

tips

Never expose an indoor orchid to the blazing summer sun. In their habitat, the epiphytic plants always have the protective leaf canopy of jungle trees over them. So choose a spot on the west or east window where the proud blooming beauty can enjoy mild morning or evening sunshine.

Category:

Indoor plants