How to care for your orchid in winter
The biggest misconception about orchids is that they are difficult to care for. The opposite is true. Especially in winter, when the plant grows more slowly, it needs very little attention. Follow a few simple rules and your orchid will stay healthy and beautiful for months.
How to care for your orchid in winter
Soak instead of watering
Now that the days are shorter, watering twice a month is enough. A short soak works best: place the root ball in lukewarm water for five to ten minutes. Then let it drain well before putting the plant back in its decorative pot – orchids don’t like wet feet.
Feed every two weeks
Winter is exactly when a little extra nutrition is welcome. Every two weeks, add a small dash of orchid food to the soaking water. This ensures healthy roots, glossy leaves and a strong plant that is ready for spring.
Move closer to the window
The sun is less intense in winter, so your orchid can stand closer to the window. A bright spot without direct sunlight is still the starting point. The ideal temperature is between 15 and 25 degrees.
Stay away from the radiator
The only real winter trap is dry air from the heating. So never place your orchid directly next to or above a radiator. If it does stand close by, put a small dish of water next to it to keep the humidity up.
Watch out for draughts when airing the room
Another winter pitfall: an open window or a door to the hallway. Cold draughts are just as unpleasant for an orchid as dry heat. So don’t place your plant right next to a window you open every day, and move it aside for a moment when you give the room a good airing.