Choose the right pot: clear plastic or ventilated pot with drainage holes
Use a suitable medium: orchid bark or a bark-based mix; avoid regular potting soil
Provide bright, indirect light: near an east window or bright filtered light
Avoid harsh direct sun that can scorch leaves
Water when the medium is nearly dry: typically every 7–14 days depending on conditions
Water thoroughly: soak until water drains freely from the bottom
Never let the orchid sit in standing water
Use room-temperature water if possible
Ensure good airflow around the plant
Maintain typical home humidity: aim for moderate humidity; use a humidifier if needed
Keep temperatures comfortable for most orchids: roughly 65–80°F (18–27°C)
Keep nights slightly cooler than days if possible
Fertilize during active growth: use a balanced orchid fertilizer diluted to about 1/4 strength
Flush the medium with plain water every 3–4 weeks to prevent salt buildup
Remove dead leaves and spent flower spikes after blooming
Repot every 1–2 years or when the medium breaks down or roots crowd the pot
When repotting, trim dead or mushy roots and use fresh orchid mix
Watch for common issues: yellowing leaves, wrinkled pseudobulbs (if applicable), soft/mushy roots, pests
Check for pests regularly: mealybugs, scale, spider mites, and aphids
Quarantine new plants for a couple of weeks before placing them with others
Keep leaves dry and avoid water trapped in leaf joints
Use a stake or support if the flower spike bends or droops
After blooming, follow plant cues: continue light and watering as usual and fertilize during new growth