As the days get shorter and temperatures start to drop, your orchids might not be showing any signs of distress just yet. But don’t let that fool you—these exotic plants are more delicate than they appear, and a little neglect now can lead to disaster come winter.
Orchids can be tricky, but with the right care, they can thrive year-round, even when the temperature plummets. Let’s make sure this winter doesn’t catch you off guard.
Understanding Your Orchid’s Needs in Fall
Orchids are tropical plants, accustomed to warm, humid environments. As the weather cools, they need some special attention to transition smoothly from their growing season into dormancy.
During October, it’s essential to recognize that your orchid is preparing to conserve energy for the winter months ahead.
While they won’t need as much water or light as they did in the summer, neglecting them now could leave them vulnerable to cold drafts, overwatering, or dehydration.
If you don’t know how to tell if your orchid is healthy, look out for these 5 warning signs that your orchids could be in trouble.
Adjusting Your Orchid’s Environment
Before we dive into the specific care steps, let’s talk about the environment. As the air gets cooler, you’ll need to create an indoor space that mimics the warm, humid conditions orchids love. Here are a few things to consider:
Orchids prefer temperatures between 65°F and 75°F during the day and a slight drop at night. If your home tends to get chilly at night, consider moving your orchid away from drafty windows or doors.
If your orchid’s root are running from the pot, you might need to take action. So, here’s why your roots are escaping the pot and how to help.
Orchids thrive in humidity levels of around 50-70%. During fall and winter, indoor heating can cause the air to become very dry. Using a humidifier near your orchid or placing it on a tray filled with water and pebbles can help maintain the moisture it needs.
As daylight decreases, your orchid will receive less light, which is normal for this time of year. However, you want to avoid placing it in direct sunlight, as that can scorch its leaves. A spot with bright, indirect light is ideal.
Should You Water Your Orchid Less in October?
BIG Mistake!
One of the biggest mistakes people make in caring for orchids during fall and winter is overwatering.
While it’s true that orchids don’t need as much water in cooler months, they still need enough to stay hydrated. The key is to find a balance.
Orchids naturally enter a dormancy phase around this time, where they grow less actively and therefore require less water. Instead of watering on a set schedule, check the orchid’s potting mix.
If it feels dry to the touch, it’s time to water. If it’s still damp, hold off for a few more days.
A good rule of thumb is to water your orchid about once a week during October. Be sure to use room-temperature water, and always allow the pot to drain thoroughly. Orchids hate having “wet feet,” so never let them sit in standing water.
Repotting in Fall: Yes or No?
You might be wondering if October is the right time to repot your orchid. In general, fall is not the best time to repot because your orchid is entering a period of rest.
Repotting can shock the plant and disrupt its natural cycle.
However, if you notice that your orchid is severely root-bound or the potting medium has broken down and is no longer providing adequate drainage, you can repot it as a last resort.
Just be sure to use an orchid-specific potting mix and a pot with good drainage.
If you’re thinking about repoting your orchid now, here’s a step-by-step of the right way to repot an orchid!
The Importance of Feeding Your Orchid
Even though your orchid is slowing down for winter, it still needs nutrients to stay healthy. However, this isn’t the time for heavy feeding. A diluted orchid fertilizer once a month should be sufficient.
Look for a balanced fertilizer (such as 20-20-20) and apply it at half the strength recommended on the label.
Avoid fertilizing more frequently, as overfeeding can damage the roots, particularly when the plant isn’t actively growing. If you’re unsure, it’s better to err on the side of caution and feed less during this period.
Guarding Against Cold Drafts
Orchids are particularly sensitive to sudden drops in temperature, so be mindful of where you place your plant as fall settles in.
Be careful!
Avoid locations where cold drafts from windows or doors can reach them. Even a brief cold spell can cause the leaves to yellow or the roots to rot.
If you live in a region where temperatures drop significantly at night, consider moving your orchid away from windowsills after sunset. Likewise, make sure it’s not too close to heating vents, as the dry heat can quickly dehydrate the plant.
Keeping Pests at Bay
Another thing to watch out for during the colder months is pests. As you move your orchid indoors or adjust its placement, check the leaves and roots for any signs of infestation.
Aphids, spider mites, and scale insects are common problems, especially when indoor air is dry. If you spot any pests, a gentle spray of insecticidal soap can help without harming the plant.
Final Thoughts: Set Your Orchid Up for Success
Caring for your orchid in October sets the stage for its winter survival and future blooms. By adjusting its environment, monitoring its water intake, and protecting it from cold drafts and pests, you’ll ensure that your orchid stays healthy and vibrant, even during the dormant months.
Your orchid might not seem like it needs much attention right now, but don’t be fooled—this is a critical time for ensuring its long-term health.
Give it the care it needs this October, and you’ll be rewarded with a thriving plant that’s ready to bounce back when spring arrives.
