Orchids are among the most stunning and elegant flowers you can grow at home. Their exotic blooms and graceful stems make them a favorite for both gifting and home décor. But if you've ever struggled with keeping orchids alive, you're not alone.
At Tooka Florist, we regularly help our customers not only choose the perfect orchid but also learn how to care for it properly. In this guide, we’ll share our most effective orchid care tips so you can enjoy beautiful, long-lasting blooms again and again.
1. Understand Your Orchid’s Watering Needs
Overwatering is the most common mistake orchid owners make. Most orchids prefer to dry out slightly between waterings.
Orchid Watering Schedule:
- Water every 5–7 days in warm weather
- Every 10–14 days during cooler months
- Always check the potting medium: if it feels dry 1 inch below the surface, it’s time to water
Tip: Use room-temperature water and let it drain completely—never let your orchid sit in water.
2. Provide the Right Light
Orchids love bright, indirect light. Too much direct sun can scorch the leaves, while too little light can stop blooming altogether.
Best Light Conditions:
- East- or north-facing windows are ideal
- South- or west-facing windows may need sheer curtains
- If leaves are dark green, your orchid may need more light; yellowish leaves may signal too much
3. Maintain Ideal Humidity
Orchids thrive in humidity levels between 50–70%. This can be tricky indoors, especially in winter.
Boost Humidity With:
- A humidity tray filled with pebbles and water
- A room humidifier
- Light daily misting (avoid spraying the flowers)
4. Use the Right Pot and Soil
Orchids don’t grow in typical soil. They prefer aerated growing media like bark chips, moss, or a commercial orchid mix. Good drainage is critical.
Potting Tips:
- Choose a pot with drainage hole
- Repot every 1–2 years, ideally after blooming
- Remove old, decayed roots and dead leaves when repotting
5. Feed Your Orchid the Right Way
To keep your orchid blooming, use a balanced orchid fertilizer (20-20-20 or a specialized orchid formula).
Feeding Schedule:
- Every 2–3 weeks during active growth (spring/summer)
- Once a month during dormancy (fall/winter)
- Always water lightly before fertilizing to prevent root burn
❌ Common Orchid Mistakes to Avoid
- 🚫 Overwatering – leads to root rot
- Too much direct sunlight – causes leaf burn
- Low humidity – can cause buds to drop
- Not trimming spent stems – prevents reblooming in some varieties
How to Revive a Wilting Orchid
If your orchid looks sad or lifeless, don’t give up yet!
- Remove any dead roots or leaves
- Repot if the medium is soggy or moldy
- Increase light exposure gradually
- Hold off on fertilizing until new growth appears
Many orchids rebound with a little attention and can bloom for years with proper care.
Make Orchids Last with Tooka Florist
At Tooka.ca, we offer premium orchids for delivery across Vancouver—ideal for gifting or treating yourself. Each orchid comes with simple care instructions and optional gift add-ons like ceramic pots or plant food.
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Same-day delivery available
Gift-ready packaging
Care support from floral experts
Ready to Add an Orchid to Your Space?
Browse our selection of elegant orchids and flowering plants at Tooka.ca and bring lasting beauty into your home.