Orchids Need Rest Too

So, your Phalaenopsis orchid is all done blooming. You start to notice some of its blooms dropping and its stem turning a sad shade of brown. Its once healthy, bright green leaves have lost their usual luster. Is it time to get rid of your once spectacularly vibrant, blooming orchid? The answer is absolutely, positively no. While you might think all signs point to your orchid dying, the reality is much more hopeful. The truth is, your orchids are tired after expending so much energy during those few months of blooming. It’s time for them to take a break.

The Resting Orchid

Phalaenopsis orchids usually flower for a period of one to three months. Once they’re done flowering, they begin a resting period, lasting approximately six to nine months. Just like us humans, orchids need time to rest and recuperate after months of hard work. Phals spend this time stockpiling nutrients and energy for their next bloom cycle.

Will My Orchid Bloom Again?

Yes! As long as you continue to give your orchid the proper care, it shouldn’t have a problem blooming once again. Orchids have been known to last for years, even decades, alternating between periods of rest and reblooming.

Here are some care tips for the resting orchid:

• Keep watering your 5” orchid with three ice cubes once a week.
• Move the plant somewhere cool and dry.
• North-facing windows work best to promote rest because it keeps your orchid out of direct sunlight.
• Fertilize your orchid every two weeks or at the very least, once a month to encourage reblooming.

Following these simple care tips, you are positioning your orchid for another successful blooming season. So when your orchid looks slightly down, and that last bloom falls, it’ll be okay. It just needs a little R&R.

­­For more detailed reblooming tips & information, download our Reblooming Guide!