Light: Bright, indirect light is best to avoid leaf scorch but to promote flowering. Try to find a South facing window with sheers/blinds filtering light.

Temperature: These guys prefer it on the warm side, but can tolerate chillier room temperatures during winter months when less active.

• 65-75 F Nights

• 75-85 F Days

Humidity: Orchids always perform better the higher you can keep humidity; but Pleurothallis generally like 40-70% humidity, which is high for most homes. Laundry rooms and bathrooms are great areas to aim for.

Low humidity causes leaf tip burn and lack of flowering.

Water: Keep these plants on the moist but not soggy side. Do not allow to dry out fully.

Repotting: Repot as needed. They continually grow, and do not have a specific requirement on time of year to repot. To learn more about potting them up, read the American Orchid Society’s care guide by clicking here.

Fertilizing: Use a balanced low rate fertilizer like a 10-10-10 formulation applied every other watering. Watering with clear water every other time is important to flush extra fertilizer and prevent root burn.

Orchids have a vast and complicated taxonomy that most cannot dissect. To learn more about orchid care, join your local orchid society chapter!

Kansas Orchid Society

(Listed in order of commonality…)

• Lack of flowers from low light

• Leaf damage/lack of growth caused by dry down

• Fungus gnats

• Algae build-up on potting mix

• Mealy Bugs

Are orchids pet safe?

Yes; generally speaking, most orchids are regarded safe for pets. Phalaenopsis have specifically been tested as safe.