During the early spring, many orchids begin blooming. But not all orchids will stay in bloom for the entire season. They will go into dormancy.
Orchids need a lot of light in order to bloom. On top of that, orchids plants require the right amounts of water and fertilizer. Some growers use a 30-10-10 fertilizer. Orchids should generally be repotted every year. Read how to repot your orchid.
The length of an orchid’s flowering period is determined by the type of orchid and the environment. Some tropical orchids will bloom in the summer. Other varieties, like moth orchids, will bloom in the winter.
Orchids have thick white roots that are adapted to absorb dissolved nutrients. This means they need to be watered a few times a week. However, excessive watering can actually kill the roots.
Orchids can be kept indoors in the winter. This will keep them cool and will stimulate the flowering process. It is also a good idea to avoid cold drafts. They can cause the flowers to dry up and can even stop the development of buds.
Orchids can be propagated through stem cuttings. They are commonly sold in grocery stores, or in home decor magazines. They can be grown in moss, bark chips, or terrariums.
Your orchids can last for years if you care for them properly. But as you probably know by now, they are highly sensitive to watering and require patience.
Orchids will thrive in a location that is bright but not too hot. They will also thrive in a location with a south-facing window. Orchids are prone to white flies, scale, and other small insects.
Read when or if you should use artificial growth lamps.
Do Orchids Bloom on the Same Stem As the Last Flower
Whether it’s the orchid you’re growing in the garden or the orchid you keep on display at home, a flower spike on the same stem as the last flower is no guarantee of more flowers. Some growers claim that cutting the stalk in question can stimulate the growth of a new spike, but others say it’s a waste of time.
In order to get the most out of your new growth, you need to provide ample light and water. You can also help your plant by gently staking it. You’ll want to make sure that the new growth is bigger than the last one.
Orchids need to have a bit of a rest in between flowering periods. Keeping it in an area that is cool during the evening is recommended. The temperature should drop by about 15 degrees Fahrenheit (ca. -9 °C).
There are many reasons why you’ll see a new spike on the same stem as the last flower. These spikes are often green with a flattened tip. It’s not uncommon for young orchids in bloom to have four or five stalks.
The most common cause of new growth on the same stem as the last flower is overwatering. This can cause the leaves to wrinkle and the root system to rot. You can prevent the resulting disease by flushing the soil with water before watering your plant.
Another good reason to see a spike on the same stem as the last flower: it’s a sign of exhaustion. In fact, the orchid is capable of reblooming on a regular basis.
Tip: Read How to Save Orchid Flowers.
