Orchid Care Calendar: Month-by-Month Guide for Healthy, Blooming Plants

Many indoor orchid varieties begin blooming in December. To support large, healthy flowers, provide plenty of light — ideally 12 hours daily using grow lights.

Fertilizing should be minimal this month, and watering remains infrequent. However, orchids benefit from increased humidity. Mist lightly a few times per day or place pots above (not in) a tray of moist pebbles to prevent root rot.

Most orchids stay dormant in January, requiring fewer nutrients and less water. Watering and fertilizing once a month is usually enough, depending on the species.

Some orchids may begin setting flower spikes during this time. Maintain stable temperatures (night temps above 65°F for warm-growing orchids) and good air circulation to prevent disease.

Increase misting only if indoor air is very dry. Mist in the afternoon so foliage dries before nighttime.

Many orchids begin blooming in February. Care remains similar to January, but as days lengthen, some species exit dormancy.

Start slightly increasing watering and fertilizer frequency toward the end of the month. On sunny days, ensure good ventilation to prevent mold and bacterial issues.

February is also a good month to repot orchids that have outgrown their containers or need fresh medium.

March marks the beginning of vigorous vegetative growth. Increase watering, feeding, and nighttime temperatures slightly.

Gradually acclimate orchids to brighter spring light to prevent leaf burn. Provide light shade if needed.

Inspect plants regularly — pests such as scale and spider mites become more active in spring.

March is the best month for dividing orchids for propagation.

Nearly all orchids are in active growth by April. Many start blooming.

Begin regular misting with warm water in the morning. This helps support new leaves and roots.

You may reposition orchids to optimize light — moving them 1–2 times per year is beneficial.

This is also a good time to separate keikis (baby plants), ideally when they are about one-quarter the size of the mother plant.

Continue April’s care routine. As temperatures rise, orchids can often be moved outdoors to a shaded patio or balcony.

However, not all orchids tolerate outdoor conditions. Avoid placing Bulbophyllum, Dendrobium, Doritis, Aerangis, and certain Paphiopedilum or Phalaenopsis varieties outside.

Increase watering, misting, and fertilizing. Orchids actively grow new leaves, roots, and spikes.

If not moved outdoors in May, June is still a suitable time. Ensure shade, humidity, and regular airflow.

If kept indoors, ventilate rooms frequently to prevent fungal diseases — but avoid cold drafts.

Strong summer sun can cause leaf burn. Provide shading to soften direct light.

Water and mist only in the morning or early evening to avoid heat stress.

Inspect outdoor orchids frequently for pests and apply preventive treatments for fungal issues.

Late-summer nights can become chilly in many U.S. regions. Bring orchids indoors, especially warm-growing species.

Cold-tolerant orchids like Cymbidiums may remain outdoors longer, as cool nights help trigger blooming.

Watering and feeding routines remain similar to July.

Bring orchids indoors from patios and balconies. Check each plant carefully for pests or disease — examine leaves, roots, and pseudobulbs.

September sunlight is gentler, so orchids can be placed on bright windowsills.

Begin reducing watering and fertilizers to transition toward winter care.

Lower nighttime temperatures slightly (around 75°F for warm growers, 55–60°F for cool growers).

Some orchids are preparing to bloom; others begin shedding older leaves due to shorter daylight hours. This is normal and usually does not require special treatment.

Shading is generally unnecessary in October.

Many orchids enter dormancy in November, requiring significantly less water and almost no fertilizer.

Phalaenopsis and other species without a dormancy period continue regular care based on temperature and humidity.

When heating systems turn on, humidity drops. Mist plants occasionally to prevent dehydration.

Supplemental grow lighting becomes essential starting in November.