How Do You Get an Orchid to Rebloom Successfully?

Your orchid has dropped its blooms, and although you have worked hard to keep your plant healthy and strong, you worry that those beautiful blooms will never come back. We have some good news: Your orchid may start blooming again soon.  

For this post, we are doing a roundup of the most asked questions about the blooming cycle, including how to ensure those blooms return. 

Is My Orchid Dead?  

If your orchid stops producing flowers, it is probably not dead. Most likely, it has entered the vegetative stage, which will last from six to nine months.  

Here is the good news: Fall is the best time for your orchid to rebloom naturally. The cooler temperatures can trigger the regrowth process, and with a little TLC, you can ensure your orchid is ready to rebloom.  

 Light exposure is crucial, as orchids thrive in bright, indirect sunlight. Temperature changes play a key role too; many orchids need a cooler nighttime environment to trigger reblooming. Proper watering is essential; overwatering can cause root rot, while underwatering can stress the plant. Fertilizing with a balanced orchid feed supports healthy growth and blooming. 

What Should I Do When My Orchid Enters the Vegetative Cycle?  

During the vegetative stage, your plant will need rest to gain the energy it needs to rebloom. Here are a few things you can do to help it along. 

Feed your plant. Two weeks after the last bloom drops, begin fertilizing it every other week with a balanced houseplant fertilizer, such as a 20-20-20, mixed at a quarter strength. That two-week wait period is important to avoid burning your plant's roots. While the above fertilizer is easiest for beginners, there are orchid-specific fertilizers on the market as well. 

Keep it hydrated, but not too much. Water your orchid as usual except for the weeks that you fertilize. 

Trim your orchid's spikes. This is one of the best and easiest ways to encourage regrowth. Here's how. 

Avoid placing it near vents. While we love the heat on those chilly fall evenings, the dry air can dehydrate and damage our plants. 

Will Moving My Orchid Help It Rebloom?  

It depends. If your plant does not have buds, you can move your orchid to a cooler environment, like the front porch.   

If you are leaving your orchid inside your home, be sure to find a place that is not drafty and where the nighttime temperatures are between 55 and 65 degrees.  

Once reblooming begins, you can return your plant to its usual location and continue watering it with ice once a week. When a new flower spike emerges, avoid moving it to a new location as the changes in light can have a negative impact.   

Watching your orchid bloom (or rebloom) is an exciting time that fills plant parents with pride. It is kind of like watching your child learn to walk.   

Feeling impatient? You are not alone. Some of our customers order new orchids to brighten their living space while they wait for the current one to bloom! 

Care Techniques to Encourage Orchid Reblooming 

Wondering how to make orchids rebloom? During this resting period, reduce watering frequency, letting the potting medium dry slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, hindering your orchid's reblooming potential. Maintain balanced moisture levels to keep the roots hydrated but not soggy. 

Fertilization is vital for promoting healthy growth and encouraging reblooming. During the growing season, usually spring and summer, use a balanced, water-soluble orchid fertilizer, opt for a formulation high in phosphorus to support reblooming. This practice nourishes your orchid and encourages it to channel energy into producing stunning flowers. 

Pruning is equally important for fostering a healthy environment for reblooming. After flowering, remove spent flower spikes by cutting them back to the plant's base. This not only improves the plant's appearance but also encourages new growth. Trim dead or yellowing leaves, as they can drain energy from the plant. Regularly maintaining your orchid through proper pruning creates optimal conditions for new growth and a beautiful rebloom. 

Recognizing Signs Your Orchid is Ready to Rebloom 

One of the first indicators is the emergence of new growth spikes. These green, elongated structures typically appear at the plant's base or from leaf axils. If you notice these spikes, it's a strong sign your orchid is preparing to rebloom. Patience is key, as these spikes take time to develop into beautiful flowers. 

Monitoring your orchid's leaf health and color provides valuable insights. Healthy leaves are usually firm and vibrant green. If leaves turn yellow or wilt, it might indicate an underlying issue that needs addressing before your orchid can rebloom. Ensuring your plant receives adequate light and water while avoiding over-fertilization helps maintain optimal leaf health. 

Another important factor is the condition of the roots and potting environment. Healthy roots are typically white or light green and should fill the pot without being tightly bound. If roots appear brown or mushy, it might be time to repot your orchid into fresh potting media, improving drainage and providing essential nutrients. A well-draining potting mix promotes root health and supports the reblooming process. 

By monitoring growth spikes, leaf health, and root conditions, you'll be better equipped to care for your orchid and encourage it to produce stunning new blooms. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Orchid Reblooming 

 A common myth is that orchids only bloom once a year. With proper care, many orchids rebloom multiple times annually. Another misconception is that orchids require complex care routines. Understanding the basics of light, water, and humidity simplifies their care and encourages reblooming.