For the exotic flowers from the rainforest, winter is the most delicate time of the year. Some orchids are now in full bloom while other species are taking a break from growing. Read here how you can skilfully guide the queen of flowers through the cold season.
Some orchids flower in winter, others take a break from growing
Skilfully cared for from November to March - what you should pay attention to
From All Saints' Day we can no longer close our eyes to the fact that the days are becoming increasingly dark and cold. For orchids, the focus is now on other care-relevant aspects than in summer. The following overview summarizes the most important factors for winter time:
- During the dark winter time, the south window may exceptionally serve as a location
- From November, immerse orchids only once a week or water more sparingly
- Spray daily with soft water at the beginning of the heating period
- Fertilize flowering plants every 4 to 6 weeks
- Do not fertilize dormant orchids in winter
- From March protect the plants from the blazing sun
A lack of light and low humidity are the biggest problems in winter. You can use special plant lamps to keep the photosynthesis going on blooming orchids. Daily spraying alone does not generate the required humidity in heated rooms. If you place an air humidifier in the immediate vicinity or fill the coaster with expanded clay (19.73€) and water, the royal flower will thank you for this care.
Avoid cold shock from drafts
Active radiators make the air in living rooms stuffy in winter. To let fresh air in, please do not tilt the windows in front of your orchids. The danger is too great that the noble plants will be hit by a cold shock, so that they shed all the flowers without further ado.
Cold bridges can form on window sills made of natural stone, which affect the warmth-loving orchids from below. If in doubt, place the flower pots on an insulating base made of wood or styrofoam.
tips
Frost-resistant, native terrestrial orchids require less care in winter than their tropical counterparts on the windowsill. Before the first frost, cover the root disc with a thick layer of leaves or garden fleece. Only cut the retracted shoots close to the ground in early spring to use them as natural winter protection.