Orchids are ideal indoor plants thanks to their colorful flowers and compact size. The following is a guide to everything you need to know for your mini Orchid to thrive!
About Mini Orchids
First, it is important to know some basic facts about Orchids to better understand how you will have to care for them.
Mini orchids, like standard size orchids, come in a variety of different colors. They can be pink, white, purple, and yellow; there are even "novelty" color strains such as green and orange. Since mini orchids are more compact than their full-size counterpart, they often have smaller blooms, though these blooms retain a vibrant color equal to that of larger orchid blooms.
Most mini Orchids will bloom for several months are long as they are properly cared for; the bloom time may vary depending on the health of the orchid as well as the particular strain.
Watering Needs
Orchids should be watered every 1 to 2 weeks, as needed – depending on the temperature, humidity, air circulation, and light levels of your home.
Like larger Orchids, mini Orchids can be allowed to dry it slightly in between waterings without any issues. To understand if your Orchid needs water, you will need to examine the soil and the roots. When the roots are white or gray, it's time for a shower – after you water, you'll notice that the roots will take on a greenish color. Touch the soil: if it's dry about 2 inches down, then it is time to water; if the soil is still moist, then you can wait.
Orchids enjoy being watered from the bottom. Soak your mini plant in water for approximately 15 minutes and then drain it thoroughly until all excess water has dripped out. Never let water pool in the planter, as this can contribute to problems ranging from mold growth and root rot to attracting pests such as insects.
Fertilizing Schedule
You don't need to fertilize your mini Orchid during the period of active growth and blooming (usually, from April to September) as this could mess with the growth cycle or even over-stress the plant. During other periods, you can feed it twice a month with a 1/4 strength fertilizer. We recommend a balanced fertilizer like 12-12-12 or similar ratio.
If you want to promote blooming in a non-blooming plant, consider using a high-phosphorus fertilizer (such as 10-30-20).
Light Requirements
Mini Orchids like to be in indirect light that ranges from medium to bright in intensity. Keep a close eye on your plant to see how it reacts to certain types of light and move it accordingly.
A North-west or South-east facing window is ideal. Direct sunlight may scorch the leaves and lead to premature bud drop. If necessary, use curtains to protect the plant from direct sunlight, especially from May to September.
Routinely check your mini orchid's leaves for discoloration such as yellow splotches, as this is a sign that they are being burned by the sunlight; in this case, move your orchid to a less sunny area. On the other hand, if the plant is not getting enough light, leaves will droop and turn very dark green.
Temperature & Humidity Tips
Keep your mini Orchid in moderate, even temperatures. During the day, it should not be allowed to get any colder than about 68 °F and not any hotter than 77 °F; at night, it will tolerate temperatures between 59 °F and 75 °F.
Avoid placing your mini Orchid in an area where it might get drafts, as this may cause the flowers or flower buds to fall off.
Orchids thrive in high-humidity environments: consider placing your plant in the bathroom, setting up a humidity tray, or buying a humidifier.
Repotting Advice
Like any indoor plant, mini Orchids need to be repotted now and again. Repotting a plant allows for the roots to have more room to grow and helps decrease the chances of overcrowding, root rot, and other issues.
You should be repotting your Orchid every 18 to 24 months; make sure to combine fresh soil with some existing soil from the previous planter, but only if this soil is completely dry.
Winter Care
In the winter, mini orchids are usually out of their active growing period – which means that they won't bloom, they will need less water and no fertilizer.
During the cold season, you will need to put your mini Orchid in a place where it will receive plenty of indirect sunlight – this will help the plant prepare to rebloom once the temperature rises again. For best results, cut the stem of the no-flowering plant just above the crown; this will result in a new stem spike that will show up towards the end of winter or into the spring, depending on how long it has been since the plant flowered.
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