How to Get an Orchid to Flower

Orchids add a graceful touch to any room, but sometimes it's difficult to get them to flower. The most common reason for a lack of blooms is too little exposure to sunlight. While orchids cannot tolerate direct sunlight, they will not thrive if left in a dark corner. Maintaining the right day and nighttime temperatures is also a vital part of getting your orchid to flower. It's important to make sure that other needs are being met as well, such as maintaining ideal moisture levels and fertilizing regularly.

• 1

  Move the orchid next to an east- or south-facing window. Clean the windows regularly so the plants receive the maximum amount of light.

• 2

  Once a week, wipe the orchid leaves clean with a soft cloth that's been moistened with water.

• 3

  Provide the right temperatures for the orchid. Orchid varieties have different temperature requirements, but all the plants must have a nighttime temperature that's at least 10 degrees lower than the ideal day temperature. Move the plant to a cooler location at night if necessary.

• 4

  Allow the growing medium to dry almost completely before watering, then soak the plant well.

• 5

  Increase the humidity by placing the growing container on a tray of pebbles saturated with water. Add more water to the tray as it evaporates.

• 6

  Feed the orchid weekly with a bloom-boosting fertilizer mixed according to package instructions.