How to encourage a fragile orchid to bloom: four tricks

Orchids, houseplants, are the most appreciated for their luxurious flowering. But sometimes a flower can be stubborn and take a long "vacation" for some reason. Do not rush to get rid of such a plant, try to stimulate it to release flowers.

OBOZ.UA has collected four tips from experienced growers. They will help to "convince" the orchid to bloom. But first of all, make sure that you have provided it with the right conditions (lighting, temperature, watering regime).

Pruning

Experts say that you can stimulate the re-flowering of an orchid by pruning as soon as all the flowers from the previous peduncle have fallen off. Simply cut off this shoot and continue to care for the plant as usual while it is dormant. To prune an orchid, find the knot below the bottom flower and cut the stem two inches above this knot. If the stem is brown or looks unhealthy, remove it completely.

Fertilizing

According to experts, orchids have unique nutritional needs and require fertilization both during flowering and dormancy. It's best to choose a product that suits the species you're growing. And don't use a universal fertilizer, buy a special composition for orchids. Add it to the water for irrigation, but in no case exceed the recommended doses. This can be fatal to the flower.

The environment

Most orchids naturally grow high on the branches of rainforest trees, using bark rather than soil as a substrate. Therefore, it is important to provide the flower with conditions as similar to this as possible for flowering. To do this, plant the orchid only in a special mixture. Only it can ensure healthy root development and prevent water retention, which can damage the plant.

Orchids also need high humidity. Therefore, spray the leaves and aerial roots daily or place the plant next to a tray of water to ensure comfortable conditions.

Watering

Orchids should be watered carefully, as excessive water can lead to a destructive disease - root rot. Watch the color of the plant's roots. If they turn brown, the flower needs watering. If the roots are green, the plant is fine. When watering the plant from above, make sure that the water does not get on the flowers and leaves. It can also harm the orchid.

Earlier, OBOZ.UA told you how easy it is to make a home cactus bloom.

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