Orchid houseplants not only need care to bloom but also to thrive and become healthy plants.
Taking to the Orchids Tips and Tricks Facebook page, one woman posted a picture of her blooming orchid that she successfully saved from dying.
Kara Hill wrote: “This is my first ‘death row rescue’ to bloom this year. She’s so pretty and looks so happy.”
Kara claimed that the plant was suffering from pests and used neem oil to rid the orchid of them.
After spotting her post, one fellow group member commented on Kara’s orchid, sharing their experience with having the exact same houseplant – phalaenopsis orchids.
Lee Bradshaw said: “I have that exact one. It’s been blooming nonstop for over two years. A mini. Love your shiny leaves.”
Orchid houseplants tend to bloom every eight to 12 months, however, there are some ways to get the indoor plant to rebloom.
With other orchid fans asking how Lee was able to make his orchid rebloom after it appeared to be dying, the orchid owner shared how simple it was.
He said: “I left it in its little pot with the moss. Bright light on a windowsill, and I soak it every 10 days or so in dilute fertiliser water. It has never stopped blooming.”
Fertilising orchids regularly provides them with the nutrients they need for optimal health and vibrant blooming.
Many people either forget to do it or become overwhelmed by the what, how and when of orchid fertilisation.
Experts recommend fertilising phalaenopsis orchids once every other week or at least once a month only after their blooms have dropped.
To fertilise orchids, use a weak solution of a balanced plant fertiliser – one that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus and potassium (look for 20-20-20 on the label).
Fertiliser should be used at half-strength, so mix it with an equal amount of water before applying it to the orchid. Always skip watering on fertilising days.
Using a narrow watering can or container, slowly pour the fertiliser into the pot, avoiding the leaves. Drain any excess solution.
