Some key cultivation techniques you need to master for growing orchids
1. Watering
Orchids prefer dry conditions over wet ones. According to growers' experience, it is best to keep orchids at two-tenths moisture. When watering, pour water from the edge of the pot; do not pour directly onto the orchid plant and the orchid crown, to avoid root rot. Rainwater is best, spring water is second best; if using tap water, let it sit in the open air for a day before use.
2. Fertilizing
During orchid cultivation, you should not fertilize too much, but you also cannot skip fertilizing entirely. In spring and summer, fertilize sparingly; in autumn, you can fertilize more often; in winter, orchids are dormant, so you can skip fertilizing. If the orchid leaves turn yellow, you can apply a little extra fertilizer; if the orchid leaves turn black, stop fertilizing.
3. Location
The location where orchids are placed directly affects their normal growth. If placed outdoors, it is best to place them on an orchid stand to keep the air humid, with two hours of sunlight per day. If placed indoors, ensure sufficient light and air circulation.
4. Shading
Orchids are mostly afraid of strong direct sunlight and need appropriate shading. Especially in summer, orchids should be placed in a shaded spot, as long as they can get about two hours of slanting sunlight. When autumn comes, the sunlight is weaker, so you can appropriately extend the sunlight exposure time.
5. Rain protection
Light rain does not affect orchids much, but during the plum rain season, it can cause water to accumulate around the orchid roots, damaging them and even causing the roots to die, so rain protection measures should be taken.
6. Dividing pots
Once orchids have grown to fill the pot, they need to be divided. Generally, divide the pot once every two years, preferably in summer or autumn. When dividing, turn the plant out, separate it by natural clusters, trim off broken roots and withered leaves, wash clean with water, leave to dry, then repot. Source: Lao Yao Blog