Orchid

The orchid is among the most beautifully appearing potted flowers, whose care can be done in many places from balcony sills to living rooms. The flower is known across a wide range, even to the extent of being used in terrarium making. From orchids in glass cloches to orchids on windowsills, all orchid plants used require care. Reasons such as the flower’s frequent susceptibility to illness and its being a member of the delicate and fussy orchid family have made orchid care more important. Because it can bend very quickly and may drop its leaves, the orchid is one of the plants that need daily care. In particular, the lifespan of the blooms on it can fall to just a few days if not tended. Therefore the orchid plant ranks among the most delicate and care-sensitive plants.

Because it's a tropical plant, it's accustomed to partial shade. Therefore, place it in a bright, but not sunny location. Orchids are excellent indoor plants for this reason. (You can read our article on indoor flower names to learn about other indoor plants.) Place your orchid in interior areas of living rooms and other rooms, especially in the summer, to protect it from heat and sunlight. In winter, you can place it near a window, as the temperature and light will be low. However, protect it from direct sunlight. Place your orchids in front of windows on east and north sides, away from direct sunlight. Summer is the leaf-growing period for orchids. If you care for them during this period, they will produce flowers during the blooming season. (See "Orchid Blooming" at the bottom of the page.) Place your orchids in a transparent pot. This way, you can see the color of their roots. You'll know their water needs based on the root color. If the roots are vibrant green, you don't need to water. Another benefit of a transparent pot is that it allows light to reach the roots. Check the water level weekly. Water should not stagnate in the roots. (See the section on watering for details.) Do not cut the air-breathing roots that grow above the pot and out of the leaves. Orchids love fresh air. You can place them in front of a window with a light breeze. However, the strong drafts created by open doors and windows are harmful to orchids and shorten the life of their flowers.