How to care for orchids in winter? Detailed care tips and methods

Orchid care in winter is relatively important. If orchids are not cared for well in winter, it will affect their growth. Below, let me share with you how to care for orchids in winter.

Strengthening orchid care in winter is related to the vigorous growth and flowering quantity of orchids the following year. To care for orchids well in winter, different management methods must be adopted according to the different varieties and characteristics of orchids.

Moving indoors for warmth: When winter arrives, orchids placed outdoors must be promptly moved indoors to a place where they can receive sunlight, and the room temperature should be controlled at 5-15°C. Cymbidium kanran and Cymbidium sinense need a slightly higher room temperature for overwintering, but it should not exceed 15°C; the more cold-tolerant Cymbidium goeringii needs 3-4 weeks of low temperature around 0°C to complete the vernalization stage, and the overwintering room temperature should be controlled at 3-8°C.

Controlling watering: When growing orchids, one should grasp the principle of "not dry in summer and autumn, not wet in winter and spring." In winter, orchids enter the dormant period, and generally watering once every 7-15 days is sufficient. Natural water or melted snow water is best; if using tap water, it should first be left to stand for 24 hours. Water from the edge of the pot, so that the water gradually flows into the flower roots until moist.

Controlling fertilizer and increasing light: Orchids generally do not need fertilizing during the dormant period in winter, but Cymbidium goeringii can have a small amount of phosphorus and potassium fertilizer sprayed on the leaves. After moving indoors, giving more light is beneficial for the robust growth and abundant flowering of orchids the following year, and can also ensure their overwintering. If light is insufficient, supplemental lighting can be used.

Ventilation and air exchange: Orchids like warmth, but also need air circulation. One should choose around noon on clear and warm days to open the windows for ventilation, or one can bring the orchid pots outdoors to a wind-sheltered, sunny place for air exchange.