How to Care for Orchids

Orchids are among the most stunning flowers you can display. Whether you have a potted orchid plant or a cut orchid arrangement, here's how to keep them looking their best.

Orchid Plants

In general, most orchids require plenty of light — ideally 6 hours per day. Orchids are tough and can handle more or less than their recommended light levels:

• More light encourages greater flowering potential
• Less light will prevent the plants from flowering, but they will still grow

Reading Leaf Colour

Leaf colour is a good way to identify if your orchid is getting enough light:

• Dark green leaves: Not enough light — move to a brighter position
• Grassy green leaves: The plant is receiving enough light to bloom

Cut Orchid Flowers

Nothing compares to the breathtaking beauty of the orchid. With proper care, you can get lasting enjoyment from your cut orchid blooms:

1. Remove the water vial from the stem of each spray.
2. Trim the stems — cut half an inch or more from each spray.
3. Submerge completely. Place the entire stem, including the flower head, in fresh room-temperature water for 5–10 minutes.
4. Prepare your vase. Fill with room temperature water and add flower food as directed.
5. Arrange. Remove flowers from water, shake off excess, and place in the vase.
6. Mist regularly. Spray flowers with a fine mist a few times each day.
7. Position carefully. Keep out of direct sunlight and away from hot or cold drafts.
8. Maintain freshness. Re-cut stems and change the water every other day.