Orchids are generally sold with a pine bark substrate because their roots require excellent drainage and minimal risk of waterlogging. They are tropical forest plants, parasites that grow on trees and thrive on the humidity in their environment. They need plenty of moisture, but not a damp substrate.
In winter, they should be watered infrequently, but if the climate is dry and the heating is on, this should be done more often (never more than once a week).
Monitor the container against the light; if the moisture in the substrate is still visible, it should not be watered. If, on the other hand, it is dry, add water, always distilled.
In very dry areas, it is recommended to use a humidifier or mist the orchid leaves with water daily. It’s also a good idea to avoid placing the plant in places that are too humid, such as busy bathrooms.
3. Fertilize
frequently. Flowering an orchid requires a special fertilizer for this type of plant, which can be found in specialty stores. Without fertilizer, flowering is unlikely. It is usually sold in liquid form, added to the water for watering.
Orchids in greenhouses are already fertilized abundantly, but after a few months, we must begin to care for them, also using fertilizer.
4. Provide the right temperature contrast. To flower, orchids need an excellent temperature contrast a few weeks before the arrival of spring. Normally, this contrast is about 10°C between the nighttime minimum and the daytime maximum, always respecting the limits of 15°C and 30°C.
To get the right temperature, you can also move the plant within 24 hours from a warmer location to a cooler location.