Hello hello! I received a miniature orchid last summer. It was blooming when I received it and I’ve taken care of it ever since. It’s sprouted 3 new leaves in the time I’ve had it but it hasn’t grown a flower spike since :( Should I be concerned or can it take them multiple years to bloom again? I am in SoCal if that makes a difference. Thank you!
Chances are it is a light issue. Too much and particularly too little or the wrong kind of light can prevent them from reblooming. Is it a phalaenopsis (moth orchid)? They like bright but indirect light. I have mine in a northern facing window in my second floor so it gets a lot of filtered light all day. If the light can cast a subtle shadow when your hand is held over the plant you should be in good shape. Also, be sure you are giving it good fertilizer as blooms take a LOT of energy.
2 gillningarYes it is a moth orchid. It’s been in a room with south facing large windows but it’s never in direct sunlight and it’s always bright during the day. Thank you for your advice!
0 gillningarSometimes an orchid can be set back a little when adjusting to its new home. The fact that it’s growing leaves, (and I assume) new roots, is a good sign though. One spike per year is average so you’re not far off from the norm either way. Some phalaenopsis, depending on the mixture of the hybrid, need more of a cool down in the fall to initiate a flower spike. It is a trick that only phals generally need. If you can put it near a slightly cracked open window overnight for the next couple of weeks, that can be enough to trigger its instincts. During the day, you can put it back and its normal spot and normal indoor temperature.
4 gillningarThank you for your advice! I’ll try that :)
1 gilla