Tips for Getting Orchids to Rebloom

When you purchased your Just Add Ice Orchid, you were probably amazed by the delicate beauty of its large, curvaceous blossoms. You were then understandably disappointed when your orchid finally stopped blooming and entered its resting phase. But you were heartened to hear that if you continued to care for your Phalaenopsis orchid, it could bloom again. But what if you’ve been waiting patiently for what seems like forever and your orchid hasn’t rebloomed?

One of the common questions posted on the Just Add Ice Orchid forum is “Why won’t my orchid bloom?” Orchids can fail to rebloom for any number of reasons; the most common culprits are light, water, fertilizer, temperature and insects.

Light. In nature, sunlight governs the floral seasons. Increasing light triggers flowers to sprout in the spring and grow and bloom during the summer. Decreasing light in the fall triggers flowers to drop their seeds and enter dormancy for the winter.

Light is equally important for the healthy growth and reblooming of orchids. Phalaenopsis orchids require bright but indirect light. Direct sunlight can burn these shade-loving orchids that, in nature, grow on the trunks and branches of trees where they are protected from harsh sunlight by the tree’s leaves.

When Phalaenopsis orchids stop blooming, many Just Add Ice Orchid owners move dormant plants to darker, less frequented areas of their home. However, sunlight is needed to help your orchid recharge its batteries. During dormancy, Phalaenopsis orchids should receive the same daily amount of bright, indirect light that they receive when they are blooming. Light can be either natural or artificial; what is important is consistent exposure, not the type of light.

Look for Part 2: Water and Fertilizer

Photo credit: thirteenthbat