The Ultimate Guide to Keeping Your Indoor Orchids Alive and Healthy

There’s something undeniably elegant about an orchid. With their intricate blooms and sculptural stems, they can elevate a windowsill or nightstand instantly. But despite their delicate appearance, orchids especially moth orchids are surprisingly hardy and low-maintenance, making them a great pick for beginners and seasoned plant parents alike.

Whether you’re worried about overwatering, not enough sunlight, or just want to know how to help your orchid bloom again, we’ve gathered insights from top plant experts to help you confidently care for your orchid. Here’s how to help this tropical beauty thrive indoors and maybe even live for over a decade.

Choose the right pot and soil

Orchids don’t grow in traditional soil like other houseplants. Instead, they thrive in special orchid potting mixes made from bark, coconut coir, or sphagnum moss that allow airflow to the roots. This mimics their natural habitat, where they cling to trees and absorb moisture from the air.

Tips:

• Use a pot with large drainage holes to prevent root rot.

• If the roots are creeping out of the pot, it may be time to repot into a slightly larger container.

• Never let the plant sit in standing water.

Get the light just right

“Orchids in the wild grow in the dappled shade of trees, not in full sun,” says Anastasia Borisevich, plant expert at Plantum. That means your orchid wants plenty of bright, indirect light ideally in the morning, when sunlight is gentler.

Best spots:

• East-facing windows for cooler climates

• South or west-facing windows if you’re in a drier or warmer region

• Avoid spots near heaters, A/C vents, or drafty windows

Water mindfully less is more

One of the biggest mistakes with orchids is overwatering. “The roots should be plump and green,” says florist Virginia Hayes. “If they’re gray and dry, it’s time to water. If they’re mushy, you’ve gone too far.”

How to water your orchid:

• Water once a week during bloom season; less in winter or humid climates

• Soak the pot in a bowl of water for 15–20 minutes, then let it fully drain

• Avoid the popular “ice cube method,” which can shock the roots

Feed your orchid when it’s growing

Orchids don’t need constant fertilizing, but a gentle boost can encourage blooming. Use a urea-free orchid fertilizer during growth periods, typically spring and early fall. Cut back once blooming ends or during dormancy.

Know when to prune and repot

Orchids bloom for one to two months, then go dormant. That’s when pruning helps them prep for the next cycle.

How to prune:

• Trim off dead stems and yellowing leaves

• Cut above a node if you want to encourage reblooming

• Repot every 1–2 years, ideally after the blooming season

Watch for signs of stress or illness

Yellow leaves? Dropped petals? These are your orchid’s way of telling you something’s off.

Common orchid issues:

• Yellowing leaves: Likely due to overwatering or lack of light

• Falling buds/petals: Natural end of blooming or sign of stress

• Root rot: Caused by poor drainage or cold water

• Pests: Remove with rubbing alcohol or a natural horticultural oil

Create the right indoor climate

Orchids prefer a humid environment (around 50–70%) and temperatures around 75°F. If your space is dry, consider misting with warm water or placing your orchid near a steamy shower now and then. Just avoid drastic temperature shifts.

Know your orchid type

Some varieties bloom longer or more frequently than others:

• Moth orchids (Phalaenopsis): Beginner-friendly, long-blooming, non-toxic to pets

• Zygopetalum orchids: Fragrant, bloom in cooler months

• Cattleya (Corsage) orchids: Bright blooms, bloom once a year, shade-lovers

Help your orchid rebloom

To encourage future blooms:

• Keep the plant in bright, indirect light

• Prune carefully after flowers fall

• Water and fertilize during growing periods

• Be patient dormant orchids can take months to rebloom

How long do orchids live?

With proper care, many indoor orchids live up to 10–15 years, and some varieties can even be passed down between generations. Cymbidium and moth orchids are especially known for their long life spans and low-maintenance personalities.

Pro tip: Keep your orchid’s environment consistent. A little attention and a stable climate go a long way toward longevity.

Between their beauty, resilience, and symbolic energy, orchids are more than just a pretty face they're a rewarding addition to any home. And with just a few minutes of care each week, your orchid can flourish for years.

Celebrate the beauty of growth in your space and if you enjoyed this guide, subscribe to our newsletter for more wellness and lifestyle inspiration.