Considered the prima donnas of the flower world, orchids have a reputation for being finicky. Just Add Ice Orchids are a beautiful exception to the rule that require little care and thrive under a wider range of environmental conditions than most other orchid species.
Five things affect the health of Phalaenopsis Orchids:
- Light. Orchids thrive in bright, indirect light. Harsh, unfiltered, direct sunlight can burn an orchid’s tender leaves and petals, causing them to turn brown and drop off. Just Add Ice Orchids grow equally well in both natural and artificial light, making them an excellent choice for both home and office settings.
- Temperature. Phalaenopsis orchids thrive when daytime temperatures are between 65 and 80 degrees F., but prefer cooler nighttime temperatures of 60 to 70 degrees F. Just Add Ice Orchids will grow in temperatures that are comfortable to humans, but do require a nighttime drop in temperatures for optimal growth.
- Water. The No. 1 reason orchids fail is overwatering. Orchids need to dry out between waterings. When orchid roots sit in a constant pool of water, their roots begin to deteriorate and rot. If an orchid is not receiving enough water, its leaves will become limp and dull, losing their bright green hue. Just Add Ice Orchids take the guesswork out of watering your orchids. Just add 3 ice cubes, equivalent to ¼ cup of water when melted to your orchid pot once a week and your Just Add Ice Orchid will receive the correct amount of water.
- Humidity. Orchids are a tropical plant used to high humidity. When winter air gets too dry, you may have to run a humidifier in the same room as your orchid plant.
- Location. Even the hardiest orchid is sensitive to drafts. Do not place your Just Add Ice Orchid near an open window or a heat vent; it will not thrive under abrupt temperature changes.
Photo by: Dana Moos
