Orchid Care Tips after Delivery

Congratulations on your new orchid! Whether your orchid delivery brought you a beautiful Phalaenopsis, a stunning Cattleya, or an elegant Dendrobium, these delicate plants deserve a little TLC after arrival to thrive and bloom for weeks. Here’s a simple guide to caring for your orchid plant post-delivery.  

Unpacking Your Orchid Plant  

When your orchid plant delivery arrives, you should first unpack it carefully to keep it in tip-top condition.  

• Inspect the plant: Check the leaves, roots, and flowers for any damage during transit. Most orchids are hardy, but trim affected leaves or roots with sterilized scissors if you spot any issues.
• Remove protective coverings: Orchids often arrive in packaging that keeps them safe. Remove any plastic wrap or protective materials from the pot to allow proper airflow.

Find the Perfect Spot  

Orchids are tropical plants, meaning they love light and warmth, but not too much.  

• Bright but indirect light: Place your orchid near an east or south-facing window where it can receive gentle morning sunlight. Direct sunlight, especially in the afternoon, can scorch the leaves.
• Maintain the ideal temperature: Orchids thrive in temperatures between 60°F and 75°F. Keep them away from drafts and heating vents to avoid sudden temperature changes.
• Humidity matters: Orchids love humidity. Increase the humidity around your plant by placing a tray of water with pebbles underneath the pot or using a humidifier.

Watering Your Orchid  

Watering your orchid correctly is essential for keeping it happy and healthy.  

• Wait to water: After delivery, give your orchid time to acclimate to its new environment before its first watering. Check the potting medium to see if it’s already moist.
• Water wisely: Use lukewarm water and soak the roots thoroughly, allowing water to drain completely from the pot. Avoid leaving the orchid in standing water as this can lead to root rot.
• Watering frequency: Orchids typically need to be watered once a week, but the exact schedule depends on the type of orchid and your home’s humidity levels.

Feeding the Orchid  

To keep those blossoms coming, proper feeding is essential.  

• Use orchid-specific fertilizer: Feed your orchid every two weeks with a balanced, water-soluble orchid fertilizer. During the dormant phase (non-blooming period), reduce feeding to once a month.
• Dilute the fertilizer: Orchids don’t need heavy feeding. Always dilute your fertilizer to half the recommended strength to avoid overfeeding.

Caring for Phalaenopsis, Cattleya, and Dendrobium Orchids  

Each type of orchid has slightly different needs. Here’s a quick breakdown of the most common ones delivered to your door.  

• Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid): Easy to care for and a favorite for orchid deliveries. Keep the potting medium slightly moist and provide low, filtered light. These orchids prefer consistent temperatures and high humidity.
• Cattleya: Known for their vibrant blooms and delightful fragrance, Cattleyas enjoy brighter light and need to dry out slightly between waterings.
• Dendrobium: These orchids thrive with regular watering during their growth phase but prefer drier conditions during their rest period. They typically need medium to bright light.

Keep Blooming Longer  

One of the joys of orchids is their long-lasting flowers. Here are a few tips to extend bloom time.  

• Deadhead spent blooms: Gently remove faded flowers to encourage more blooming and save the plant’s energy.
• Avoid moving them too much: Orchids can be sensitive to changes in environment or location. Once settled in a good spot, try to avoid moving them frequently.

Your Orchid Maintenance Routine  

Caring for an orchid doesn’t end once the blooms fade. Post-bloom care is essential to encourage reblooming. Cut down the flower spike when it starts to dry, maintain a consistent care routine, and watch for new growth.

Orchids Simplified  

Caring for your orchid after delivery can initially feel daunting. Still, with these tips, you can enjoy a thriving plant that continues to brighten your space. Remember, orchids are resilient and rewarding plants once you understand their needs.  

Want more orchid care advice or tips on choosing the perfect one for your home? Check out our range of Phalaenopsis, Cattleya, and Dendrobium orchids to get started. Happy growing!