September 5, 2025

Orchid Care: Tips, Tricks, and Inspiration for Your Home

Orchids have a reputation for being fussy—but in reality, they’re no harder to grow than most houseplants once you understand their needs. With their graceful blooms and exotic flair, orchids can bring months of beauty to your home, year after year. This guide is packed with tips, tricks, and myth-busting advice to help you grow orchids with confidence—even if you’re brand new to them.

 

Common Orchids You’ll Find at Mahoney’s

While there are thousands of orchid varieties in the world, here are some of the beautiful types you’ll often find in our stores:

• Phalaenopsis (Moth Orchid): The perfect “starter orchid,” with elegant blooms that can last for months in shades of white, pink, purple, and yellow.
• Paphiopedilum (Lady Slipper): Known for their pouch-shaped flowers that look both whimsical and dramatic—each bloom is like a little work of art.
• Phragmipedium: Similar to Lady Slippers, but with more elongated, cascading petals that add flair and movement.
• Miltoniopsis (Pansy Orchid): Cheerful orchids with large, flat flowers that resemble garden pansies. Many varieties are lightly fragrant.
• Oncidium (Dancing Lady Orchid): Produces sprays of small, bright flowers that seem to dance in the air.
• Zygopetalum: Unique orchids with strikingly patterned flowers, often purple or green, and many varieties have a sweet fragrance.

For most beginners, Phalaenopsis orchids are the best place to start—but don’t be afraid to explore others as you grow more confident.

 

How Orchids Grow in the Wild (and Why It Matters)

Unlike many plants that grow in soil, most orchids are epiphytes—meaning they grow attached to trees, not in the ground. Their roots cling to bark and absorb water and nutrients from rain, mist, and decaying leaves.

What this means for you at home:

• Orchids don’t want regular potting soil. They need a special orchid bark mix that mimics tree bark and keeps their roots airy.
• Their roots like air circulation and should never sit in soggy soil.
• Clear orchid pots help you see the roots, which are just as important as the leaves and flowers. Healthy roots = a happy plant.

 

 

 

Light: Bright but Gentle

Most orchids, especially Phalaenopsis, prefer bright, indirect light—think near an east- or south-facing window with sheer curtains.

• Too much light: Leaves turn yellowish or sunburned.
• Too little light: Leaves turn dark green and flowers may not appear.

A good rule: if you can read a book by the natural light in the spot without turning on a lamp, it’s probably bright enough. Still have questions about lighting? Check out our blog on lighting for indoor plants here!

 

 

Watering: No Ice Cubes, Please!

One of the worst myths out there is to water orchids with ice cubes. In the wild, orchids are tropical plants that never encounter ice. Cold water can actually damage their roots.

Here’s the real way to water:

• Let the roots dry slightly before watering. Silvery-gray roots mean it’s time for a drink; plump green roots mean they’re still hydrated.
• Run water through the pot until it drains out the bottom. Then empty the saucer—orchids don’t like “wet feet.”
• Always water in the morning so leaves and roots have time to dry during the day.

 

Feeding: Timing Matters

Orchids are light feeders, but they do appreciate regular nutrition.

• During active growth (spring through early fall): Feed every 2–3 weeks with a balanced orchid fertilizer (like 20-20-20), diluted to half strength.
• During bloom: Keep feeding every 2–3 weeks to support flower production.
• During rest (late fall and winter): Cut back to once a month or stop fertilizing until new leaves or flower spikes appear.

Tip: Remember the saying “weekly, weakly”—fertilize weakly, but often.

 

After the Blooms Fade

When your orchid’s flowers drop, don’t panic—it’s not dead! The plant is just resting.

For Phalaenopsis orchids:

• If the flower spike is still green, trim it just above a node (a little bump on the stem). This may trigger a new flush of blooms.
• If the spike has turned brown, trim it off at the base. The plant will grow a fresh spike when it’s ready.

Keep caring for your orchid—watering, light, and occasional feeding—and it will reward you with blooms again, usually once a year.

Repotting & Root Care

Every 1–2 years, orchids need repotting. The bark mix breaks down over time and stops draining well, which can suffocate roots.

• Repot after blooming, when the plant is starting new growth.
• Use fresh orchid bark mix and a pot with good drainage.
• Trim away any dead, mushy roots. Healthy roots should be firm and white or green.

 

Extra Tips for Thriving Orchids

• Temperature: Orchids prefer days in the 70s and nights in the 60s. A 10–15° difference between day and night can encourage blooming.
• Humidity: They like a little extra moisture in the air. A humidity tray (a shallow dish of water with pebbles) under the pot works wonders.
• Air circulation: A small fan in the room helps prevent fungal issues.

 

Styling Orchids in Your Home

Orchids aren’t just houseplants—they’re living décor. A few ideas:

• Minimalist Chic: A single white orchid in a modern pot makes a striking statement on a dining table or desk.
• Tropical Vibes: Group different orchids together with ferns and bromeliads for a lush, jungle feel.
• Seasonal Touches: Add moss, driftwood, or seasonal décor around the base of your orchid for a fresh look year-round.
• Double the Impact: Place orchids in front of a mirror for the illusion of twice the blooms.

 

 

Orchids: Easier Than You Think

Once you understand their natural habits, orchids are surprisingly easy to care for—and they’ll reward you with blooms year after year. They’re elegant, exotic, and endlessly rewarding.

Curious to try one yourself? Stop by any of our Mahoney’s locations to explore our selection of orchids and let our team help you pick the perfect one for your home.