Collection: Orchids

Orchid characteristics

Orchids are one of the most diverse and fascinating plant families in the world. With thousands of species, ranging from the well-known butterfly orchid to the exclusive Vanda, there is something to suit every taste. Most indoor orchids are characterized by beautiful flower buds that can bloom for months and unique aerial roots. These roots are gray-green and absorb moisture from the air. In nature, orchids often grow as epiphytes on trees, which means that they obtain their nutrients and water from the environment rather than from the ground. This gives them their unique and graceful appearance.

Is the orchid poisonous?

Good news for pet owners: most common orchids, including the popular Phalaenopsis, are not poisonous to humans, cats, or dogs. This makes them a safe and colorful addition to any household. Although the plant is not harmful, the leaves or flowers should never be eaten, as this can cause mild stomach upset due to the tough structure of the leaves. So you can safely place the orchid on your coffee table or windowsill without worrying about your four-legged friends.

Does the orchid purify the air?

Although the orchid is best known for its beauty, it also contributes to a healthier indoor climate. The plant is able to filter certain harmful substances from the air, such as xylene, which is often found in paint and glue. What makes the orchid extra special is that some species (such as the Dendrobium) absorb CO2 and release oxygen at night, unlike most other houseplants. This makes them ideal for the bedroom. Although their filtering capacity is smaller than that of a large fern, any extra source of oxygen in the home is of course welcome.

Orchid location

The ideal location for an orchid is a bright spot, but without direct, bright sunlight. Too much direct sunlight, especially in summer, can burn the leaves, which can be seen as yellow or white spots. An east- or west-facing window is often perfect. In winter, when the sun is less powerful, a south-facing window can work well. Also, make sure you don't place the plant above a burning heater, as the dry air can cause the flower buds to dry out and fall off. Orchids also don't like drafts.

Can orchids be placed outside?

During the warm summer months, some types of orchids, such as the Cambria or the Cymbidium, can be placed outside for a while. However, it is important to place them in a shady spot where they are not exposed to direct sunlight. In the Netherlands, for example, the climate is unpredictable; as soon as the temperature drops below 12 to 15 degrees at night, they must be brought back indoors. Most tropical orchids (such as the Phalaenopsis) prefer to stay indoors all year round. They love rainwater outside, but make sure they never remain in a waterlogged pot.

Orchid care

Caring for an orchid is less complicated than many people think, as long as you understand its natural needs. The most important rule is: mimic the tropics. This means high humidity and an airy substrate. Never use regular potting soil, but always use special orchid bark (tree bark). Spray the aerial roots and leaves regularly with a plant sprayer to keep the humidity around the plant high. It is also important not to throw the plant away after flowering; with the right pruning and a little patience, the orchid will produce new flower stems after a few months.

Watering orchids

The most common mistake with orchids is overwatering. This can cause the roots to rot. The best method is to immerse the growing pot in a layer of lukewarm (rain)water for about 10 to 15 minutes once a week. Allow the plant to drain thoroughly before returning it to its decorative pot; there should never be any water left at the bottom. You can tell if the plant is thirsty by the color of the roots: are they gray or white? Then it's time to water. Are they a nice green? Then the plant still has enough moisture.

Feeding orchids

To keep your orchid healthy and encourage it to flower again, extra nutrition is essential. Use special orchid fertilizer for this, as it contains the right balance of minerals that the plant cannot extract from the bark. Feed the plant about twice a month during the growth and flowering period. In the winter months, when the plant is dormant, you can halve the feeding to once a month or even stop altogether. Always add the fertilizer to the immersion water so that the roots can absorb the nutrients directly and evenly without burning.

How should you prune an orchid?

Has your orchid finished flowering? Don't cut the flower stem away completely straight away. With a Phalaenopsis, you can cut the stem above the second or third ‘eye’ (the thickened parts on the stem). The stem will often sprout again for a second bloom. However, if the stem is completely brown and withered, you can cut it away at the base. The plant will then produce a completely new stem from the heart. Also remove dead or rotten roots when repotting, but always leave healthy green or gray aerial roots in place.

What to do with an orchid with limp or brown leaves?

Limp leaves often indicate a problem with the roots or watering.

• Limp, wrinkled leaves: The plant is not getting enough water or the roots are rotten from too much water and can no longer absorb moisture. Check the roots immediately!
• Brown spots: This is often sunburn. Move the plant to a spot with less direct light.
• Yellow leaves: This can be a sign of natural aging (if it is the lower leaves), but also of too much direct sunlight or drafts.
• Recovery always starts with checking the health of the roots and the location.

Orchid cuttings

Taking orchid cuttings is a special process. Sometimes an orchid develops a ‘Keiki’; this is a young plant that grows on the flower stem. Wait until this Keiki has at least three roots a few centimeters long and two to three leaves of its own. You can then carefully cut the plant off the mother stem and place it in its own pot with fine orchid bark. Cuttings from leaves or roots are not possible with most species. Another method is to divide species such as Cymbidium, by carefully splitting the root ball in two.

Repotting orchids

Repot your orchid about once every two years, or when the roots are pushing out of the pot. It is best to do this in the spring or just after the plant has finished flowering. Always use a transparent growing pot, because the roots of many species (such as Phalaenopsis) need light for photosynthesis.

Only use fresh orchid bark and do not press it down too firmly; the roots need air. While repotting, cut away the hollow, brown roots with clean scissors, but be careful with the healthy, sturdy roots.

Buying an orchid

Would you like to buy a beautiful orchid that will stay beautiful for a long time? At Plants24, we select our orchids for their vitality and flowering power. We work with top growers who specialize in growing strong plants. When you order from us, your orchid is carefully packaged to protect the delicate flowers and buds during transport. This way, you can be sure that a healthy plant will arrive at your home, ready to brighten up your interior for months to come. View our changing assortment and choose your favorite color!

Frequently asked questions about orchids

Why are the flower buds falling off my orchid?

This is often referred to as ‘bud drop’ and is usually caused by drafts, sudden temperature changes, or insufficient light. Fruit ripening (ethylene gas) near the plant can also cause the buds to fall off.

How long does an orchid bloom on average?

A healthy Phalaenopsis can bloom for two to six months in a row. Some varieties bloom for a shorter period, but more often per year. Good nutrition and the right location significantly extend the flowering period.

Should the aerial roots that grow outside the pot be placed in the soil?

No, absolutely not! These aerial roots extract moisture and oxygen from the air. It is actually a sign that the plant is healthy. You can spray them if they become very white.

Will my orchid always produce new flowers?

Yes, with the right care, an orchid is a perennial plant. After flowering, give the plant a slightly cooler spot and less water to stimulate a new flowering period. Patience is key here!