- Orchids require a special type of growing medium. Common growing mediums used for orchids include shredded fir tree bark, coconut chips, loose charcoal, fibrous sphagnum moss or special orchid mixes which contain a combination of these or similar substances. Terrestrial type orchids are grown in an orchid mix that contains soil. Orchid medium must be loose enough to let air get to the roots and drain quickly. Orchids may also be mounted. Slatted wooden baskets with fibrous sphagnum moss or coconut fiber are commonly used. A large piece of driftwood or cork board can be used as well. The orchid is tied to the basket, driftwood or cork board with fishing line to steady it until it can attach itself.
- Orchids have differing moisture needs depending on the type. Generally, orchids should be watered when the growing medium gets dry. Orchids growing in humid climates should be watered less often than those growing in dry climates. Mounted orchids should be watered with a spray bottle every day or every other day, soaking the plant and roots. Water potted orchids until the water runs out of the bottom of the pot and empty the catch saucer underneath. Water in the morning and use room temperature water for potted and mounted orchids. Never use cold water straight from the tap or water that has been chemically softened.
- Provide plenty of humidity for orchids. Mist potted orchids every day or every other day in the morning or early afternoon. Place an evaporation dish underneath them to provide extra humidity. An evaporation dish can be made from a shallow container with a layer of pebbles or marbles on the bottom with 2 to 3 inches of water. Set the orchids directly above the evaporation dish, not in it.
- Orchids should be given fertilizer once per week or every other week depending on the specific type of orchid. Under-fertilizing is always better than over-fertilizing. Orchids can grow without fertilizer but too much will kill them. Water-soluble balanced orchid formula fertilizer should be mixed at half strength. Water both mounted and potted orchids first with plain water then fertilized water. The fertilized water should be placed into a spray bottle and misted onto mounted plants.
- Temperature requirements vary somewhat depending on the type of orchid. Most orchids prefer night temperatures between 55 and 65 degrees F and day temperatures between 75 and 85 degrees F.
- Orchids generally need very bright indirect light. This also varies depending on the particular genus. As a rule, they should not be exposed to direct afternoon sunlight but there are types of orchids that appreciate a brief exposure to morning or evening sunlight.
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