Page 49 - ESPC_Apr25

GARDENING

Orchids love humid conditions. Lightly mist
the roots and foliage, avoiding the flowers.

“Unlike most houseplants, orchids are How often do orchids flower?
typically potted in bark or moss rather “Certain varieties of orchids can continue
than soil, so they require different watering to flower for months at a time in the right
methods. Water them once a week or conditions, whilst others will only flower once
whenever the bark or moss feels dry, using then go dormant until the next flower cycle.
rainwater or filtered water if possible. Avoid
overwatering, as orchids are highly sensitive What to do with orchids after flowering?
to root rot — always ensure excess water “If your orchid’s flowers start to drop, don’t
drains away. worry, this is completely normal. You can

encourage your orchid to reflower by lowering
“Orchids love humid conditions. Lightly mist the room temperature by around 5°C or moving
the roots and foliage, avoiding the flowers. it to another space.
However, if your plant has been recently
watered, skip misting to prevent excessive
Dobbies reveals how to moisture buildup. “You may also need to prune your plant. Cut
away dead leaves and trim any stems that have
look after your orchids “For long-lasting flowers, feed your orchid turned brown or yellow using sharp secateurs.

Always cut diagonally to promote new growth.”
regularly with a specialist orchid fertiliser.
Stop feeding in mid-winter to give the plant a

rest before its next blooming period.
this spring “If necessary, repot your orchid every two
years into a slightly larger container, using a
high-quality bark-based orchid potting mix.
Spring is the perfect time to breathe new life into our homes, and This will help maintain the plant’s health and
Dobbies says there’s no better way to do so than by welcoming colour encourage new growth.
indoors with beautiful orchids.
“Orchid flowers can be heavy, so using plant
support sticks can help prevent the stems
hether you’re looking to How to look after orchids from breaking or drooping.”
add structure to an existing Claire says, “Orchids are one of the best
Whouseplant display, create an houseplants for bringing colour and vibrancy When do orchids flower?
elegant spring centrepiece on your dining into your home. While they do have specific care Claire says, “Most orchids are in flower when
table, or enjoy a pop of colour in your home needs, they are relatively easy to look after and purchased and their new leaf growth tends
office, Dobbies says orchids are the perfect can flower multiple times a year with the right care. to occur during the summer months. In late
choice to elevate your interiors.
autumn, new flower buds will develop and
“Orchids thrive in bright, filtered light. Keep flower shortly after.”
Here are some care tips for everyone’s them away from direct sunlight, as this can
favourite spring houseplant from Dobbies’ scorch their leaves. A north- or east-facing
Senior Houseplant Buyer, Claire Bishop. windowsill is ideal.” For more orchid care advice and to explore
Dobbies’ range of houseplants, visit dobbies.com
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