Phalaenopsis in media

Light

Bright, indirect sunlight

Watering

  • Check moisture by pressing your finger into the potting media
  • Once the media is no longer damp, water by thoroughly saturating the potting media, avoiding getting water on the leaves
  • Do not let the orchid sit in standing water

Temperature

Comfortable room temperature (65–80°F) works for most orchids

Inspection

  • Observe the leaves for damage – they should be smooth and supple
  • Observe the roots – roots can vary from almost white to deep green, but should not exhibit shriveling or rot
Dendrobium in media

Light

Bright, indirect sunlight

Watering

  • Check moisture by pressing your finger into the potting media
  • Once the media is no longer damp, water by thoroughly saturating the potting media
  • Do not let the orchid sit in standing water

Temperature

Comfortable room temperature (65–80°F) works for most orchids

Inspection

  • Observe the leaves and canes for damage
  • Some shriveling and yellowing of the older canes is normal
Oncidium in media

Light

Bright, indirect sunlight

Watering

  • Check moisture by pressing your finger into the potting media
  • If media is only slightly damp, water by thoroughly saturating the potting media
  • Do not let the orchid sit in standing water

Temperature

Comfortable room temperature (65–80°F) works for most orchids

Inspection

  • Observe the leaves and pseudobulbs for damage
  • Increased wrinkling of the pseudobulbs indicates the plant needs water, but once wrinkling has occurred it may remain wrinkled once hydration has been restored
Mounted orchids

Light

Bright, indirect sunlight

Watering

  • Water by thoroughly saturating the moss once every other day

Temperature

Comfortable room temperature (65–80°F) works for most orchids

Inspection

  • Observe the leaves and pseudobulbs (if present) for damage
Phalaenopsis in water culture

Light

Bright, indirect sunlight

Watering

  • Maintain ¼” to 1” of water in the vessel at all times

Temperature

Comfortable room temperature (65–80°F) works for most orchids

Inspection

  • Observe the leaves and roots for damage
  • Once a week, check the roots thoroughly for any signs of mold or rot. Remove any damaged roots by cutting with sterile shears.