Orchid Care Guide: How to Keep Your Phalaenopsis Orchid Thriving
Written by Savilles Florist
Orchids are one of the most elegant plants you can have in your home—but they’ve also built a reputation for being “hard to keep alive.”
Here’s the reality:
They’re not difficult…
they’re just misunderstood.
If you’ve ever heard of the ice cube trick, you’re not alone. Let’s break down what actually works—and how to keep your orchid looking beautiful for as long as possible.
Light: The Foundation of a Healthy Orchid
Orchids thrive in bright, indirect light.
Best placement:
Near a window, but not in direct midday sun
East or north-facing windows are ideal
A few hours of soft morning sunlight is perfectly fine
Avoid:
Harsh afternoon sun (this can burn the leaves)
Dark corners (you won’t get blooms)
Simple rule:
Bright room = happy orchid.
Temperature: Keep It Consistent
Orchids like what you like.
Ideal range: 59°F – 77°F
Keep away from drafts and vents
Avoid sudden temperature swings
If your home feels comfortable, your orchid will too.
Watering: The Biggest Mistake People Make
Most orchids don’t die from neglect…
they die from overwatering.
The right way to water:
Soak the roots (bark) for 5–15 minutes
Let all excess water drain completely
Wait until roots turn grey/white before watering again
This usually means watering every 7–14 days.
What to avoid:
Letting the plant sit in water
Watering on autopilot without checking roots
Light surface watering (it doesn’t reach the roots properly)
Pro tip:
Green roots = hydrated
Grey roots = ready for water
The Ice Cube Trick: Does It Actually Work?
You’ve probably heard this:
“Just add a few ice cubes once a week.”
And yes—it can work.
Why people use it:
Prevents overwatering
Simple routine
Easy to remember
But here’s the catch:
Orchids are tropical plants.
Ice cubes can:
Shock the roots with cold
Only water part of the root system
Prevent full hydration of the plant
Our recommendation:
If you want your orchid to truly thrive and rebloom, skip the ice and water it properly.
If you prefer simplicity, ice cubes are okay—but they’re a shortcut, not the best method.
Airflow: Don’t Let Roots Sit in Water
Orchid roots need air just as much as water.
Always drain excess water after watering
Never let water sit in the bottom of the pot
Use breathable containers when possible
Healthy roots = longer-lasting blooms.
After the Blooms Fall: It’s Not Dead
This is where most people give up too early.
When the blooms fall:
The plant is still alive
It’s just shifting energy to roots and leaves
Cut the stem back to the last node (small bump on the stem)
and let it recover.
Reblooming: Yes, It Can Happen
With proper care, your orchid can bloom again in 3–6 months.
What helps:
Consistent watering
Bright, indirect light
Slight temperature changes (cooler nights)
New blooms may come from:
The old stem
Or a brand-new spike
The Bottom Line
Orchids aren’t difficult, you just need to understand how they work.
If you remember three things:
Bright, indirect light
Let roots dry before watering
Never let it sit in water
You’re ahead of most people.
Need Help With Your Orchid?
Not sure what your orchid needs?
Bring it into Savilles Florist or send us a photo, we’ll help you figure out exactly what’s going on.
Because a healthy orchid shouldn’t just survive…
it should thrive.
Info@SavillesFlorist.com
Info@SavillesFlorist.com
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