Lighting

• The right lighting conditions are among the most important considerations when growing orchids. Most indoor orchids will thrive with medium sun exposure, usually meaning between four and six hours per day. Bright light will work for some types of orchids, while others do best with indirect or filtered light. For growers who aren’t sure they are providing proper exposure, the leaves will usually be an early indicator of problems. If leaves are long and skinny, more light is required. If leaves are soft and wide, less light is appropriate.
  
  

Water

• Most orchid plants have very specific water needs and usually require watering just once per week. Cattleya, Oncidium and Dendrobium orchids prefer soil to dry out between waterings. Phalaenopsis orchids prefer to dry out almost completely between waterings, and Epidendrum orchids should be kept slightly damp, usually requiring more frequent watering. Keeping the proper water/air balance is essential in keeping the plant healthy. Too much water leaves the orchid open to fungal or bacterial infections and root rot.
  
  

Humidity

• Since most orchid species originate in tropical areas, regular exposure to humidity is preferable for most orchids. The preferred humidity level for most orchids is between 60 and 80 percent. Some varieties will prefer more, particularly young plants or those which aren’t established. These plants might require watering as often as three times per day and the aid of a humidity tray. As with watering, the appearance of the leaves will be a good indicator of overall health and whether or not enough humidity is being supplied.
  
  

Temperature

• Proper temperature range will help keep orchids hardy and growing well. The temperature needs will vary greatly depending on the specific type of orchid. Medium temperature groups do best in weather that gets no cooler than 60 degrees Fahrenheit in the evening and 70 degrees F during the day. Cool temperature orchids prefer temperatures that range between 50 and 55 degrees F during the evening and between 60 and 65 degrees F during the day. Warm weather orchids should never be exposed to temperatures below 45 degrees F; they do best in temperatures between 65 and 75 degrees F.