The orchid is one of the most popular flowering houseplants, with flowers of all shapes and sizes, and caring for it is easier than most people think as long as the right conditions are provided. Do orchids need a lot of light and where is the best location for them? You will find out in this article!
Orchids have some special requirements for their location. Although they need a lot of sunlight, they also need to be protected from it so that the leaves do not burn. Hence the questions - how much light exactly does an orchid need, what kind of light should it be and how do you know whether your plant is getting too much or too little sun? Here you will find the answers!
Location for Orchids – What Should You Consider?
Orchids are easy to grow if you consider their care requirements. And although there are hundreds of species of orchids, the most popular, easiest to care for and best-selling in Germany is the Phalaenopis. It has tall, gently curving stems, large, waxy leaves that prevent water loss, and colorful, showy flowers, usually white, purple, pink, or a combination thereof. Other common genera include Dendrobium, Cattleya and Cymbidium. But to enjoy their flowers, you need to provide them with some habitat conditions. These are as follows:
- Do orchids need a lot of light – Yes, but it should be indirect (we’ll get into the details in a moment). A good place for them is the windowsill.
- Do not place the plant near a heater. Yes, we understand that this can be a difficult task as the heater is often located directly under the windows. The problem, however, is that the air from the heater is dry and the orchid needs moist air. So take this into account as much as possible when looking for a suitable place in your home so that your plant can feel comfortable.
- Do not place the orchid in a draft.
- Do not place the plant near ripening fruit. This releases gases that cause the orchid to age quickly.
- If the orchid becomes limp, it is probably a sign that the location is not bright enough. However, if the location is bright enough and the orchid grows limply, you are probably giving it too much or too little water.
Orchids grow best in bright, sunny locations. However, in hot weather, especially in summer, you should make sure that your plants are well shaded, as too much sunlight can burn them.
The best locations for your orchids are west and east facing windows. South-facing windows are not ideal as strong sunlight comes in through them (especially in summer). If you do place your plants in a south-facing window, protect them with a curtain, curtain or something similar.
What happens to plants in low light?
Do orchids do well in low light – unfortunately not. An orchid that is kept in low light will not do well. Over time, the leaves darken and wilt because they do not receive enough sun to maintain the plant's energy levels. If your orchid is in a low-light environment, you should either move it to a location where it will receive more sunlight or purchase a grow light under which it will get what it needs.
How do you know if your orchid is getting the light it needs?
A happy orchid has bright green leaves - they're the best indicator of whether your plant is getting enough light. We therefore recommend that you pay attention to the color of the leaves at least once a week, especially if you have moved your orchid to a new location or have just purchased it and brought it into your home.
Other signs that your orchid is receiving too little or too much light include:
- Dark green leaves: This means you need to move the plant to a brighter location or place it under a grow light.
- Yellow-green or red leaves: Both mean the orchid is getting too much light and should be moved to a location with a little less.
Notice: Since yellowed leaves can also be an indication of waterlogging and root rot, touch the plant's leaves. If they feel noticeably warmer than the air, it's a sign that the sunlight is too strong. If this is not the case, it is probably root rot.
Conclusion: Now that you have the answer to the question “Do orchids need a lot of light?” know, it's up to you to ensure they create the conditions they need to thrive and bloom. Only when your plant has bright green leaves can you be sure that you have done your job well and that your orchid has a happy home.
Orchidsmaintain – Whichare the most common mistakes people make without knowing it?You can find out here!
