How to Keep Orchids Alive Indoors
- 1). Use bark as a medium to plant monopodial orchids. These plants obtain nutrients and water through the aerial root, which should be located on top of the medium. Conversely, use osmunda for orchids with pseudobulbs, which are located under the surface of the medium. Using the correct medium for the type of orchid you have is important to its growth and survival indoors.
- 2). Repot plants every two to three years between February and June so that you don't upset the flowering and growth of the orchid. Gently remove the plant from the container. Rinse the roots with warm water to wash away the old medium and trim away any dead roots on the pseudobulbs, but not the aerial root on monopodial orchids. Set the plant into the new container, using the appropriate medium; place the crown of the plant at the same level as it was in the other container. Gently tamp down the medium with your hand. Always use clean containers and new medium.
- 3). Water the plant thoroughly until you see water running out of the container's bottom drainage holes. After 10 to 15 minutes, empty out the drainage tray so that the orchid's container isn't sitting in water. Keep the medium moist, but not soggy. Use tap water that has sat for 24 hours, meaning that the chemicals in the water have dissipated. You can use rain water, pure spring water or distilled water, but never softened water.
- 4). Use a fertilizer made especially for orchids once a month for orchids growing in osmunda or every two weeks for orchids growing in bark. Use 1/4 of the recommended dosage of a 10-50-10 (nitrogen-phosphorous-potassium) fertilizer in the fall to promote spring blooms. Only fertilize the plants when they are actively growing and not during their winter dormant or rest period.
- 5). Place the plant in an east-facing window where it will receive indirect light during the summer months but minimal light during the winter months. House temperatures should be between 68 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit during the day, but at least 10 degrees cooler at night. Keep plants away from heating and cooling vents, which cause drafts and dry air.
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