Orchid Blooming Tips - Provide Less Water During Winter Months

There are many orchid types that should be watered sparingly for several weeks during winter time. In their natural habitats, winter seasons are arid with very little rain and low humidity. During this hiatus, these plants enter an extended period of rest or dormancy. This is normal, and when spring arrives with warmth and natural moisture, the orchid plants return to growth and should produce blooms.

Inside your growing area, you should honor this natural cycle. If you keep these orchids dryer during the winter, you will improve flowering at the onset of spring. Some of the orchid types that go dormant during winter are Cycnoches, Coelogyne, Catasetum, and Stanhopea. Their pseudobulbs are a good index as to the level of watering that they need; the bulbs should always be plump regardless of the season.

What to Expect and How to Cope During Winter

First of all, remember to always water your orchids early in the day. Watering late in the day can cause bacterial growth that can infect your orchids. The orchid leaves should be completely dry by evening time.

When orchids are in the resting or dormant state, they do not need a lot of water and even less fertilizer. If their rest is disturbed by excess water and fertilizer, the roots may be damaged and they may not bloom during the spring and summer. Read the culture notes for your particular varieties of orchids, and give them the appropriate amount of water during winter.

Orchids start blooming during the spring and summer months. The first sign of their 'awakening' is the appearance of firm, whitish green, fresh roots. When this happens, gradually increase their watering frequency.

Michael Anderson is co-author with Steve Frowine (author of four orchid books including the Orchid title of a well known series) of the web site, UncutOrchids.com. To get a free, 40-part video course on orchid care and the "Orchid of the Day" newsletter, click now on this URL: UncutOrchids.com. Michael lives in the enchanting town of Guanajuato, Mexico, where he also offers Guanajuato apartments to vacationers and visitors.

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