Craig Morley, a gardening expert from Budget Seeds, said beautiful orchids “tend to flower for an average of six to 10 weeks”.
To make the most of the blooming season, in early spring, you will need to take good care of the orchid houseplant.
“In terms of the number of buds you can expect, every species of orchid is different, with some capable of producing many flowers,” said Morley.
“Most orchids will thrive in a place with bright light, but not direct sun, such as a north or east-facing window.”
Morley added: “They need to be watered or misted regularly, but you should try to use rainwater or boiled water over tap water.
“Orchids also need to be grown in specialist bark-based orchid compost, as opposed to normal compost.”
Morley cautioned that an orchid “should never be left in standing water as this can cause root rot”.
Other big no-nos include over or underwatering the precious orchid houseplant, which may drop its buds if you do.
“It is best to keep to a regular watering schedule so your orchid is not sat in water or too dry,” said Morley.
“Other causes of buds falling off can be insufficient light, fluctuations in temperature or changes in the environment.”
Morley elaborated: “For example, if an orchid was accustomed to living in a greenhouse it may take some time before it is acclimated to the climate in your home.”
As energy bills are still fairly high, if you have a colder home than the orchid may like, Morley shared his expertise.
“If your home is cold, you should try to ensure that your orchid is exposed to some heat by placing it near, but not on top of, a radiator where it will feel the residual heat.”
He added: “You should also avoid placing it in a draughty area, as this will affect the temperature around the plant.”
Morley recommended: “Try keeping your orchid in the sunniest room of your home… increasing the humidity of your plant can also help it to thrive in colder environments, which can be done through providing it with a humidity tray.”
How to make a humidity tray
Morley instructed: “Fill a shallow tray with some pebbles and a small amount of water, and then place the orchid on top.
“You can also try adding a humidifier to the room where you keep your orchid, or mist the plant with a spray bottle.”
