Flowering plants reach their full potential during the peak of bloom. This is when people’s gardens brighten up and the wonders of nature are explored yet again. One of the prominent flowers you will find in people’s gardens is the orchid.
However, things could go sour and your plant will refuse to bloom. If you’ve experienced this in recent times, then, you’ve found the right article.
4 signs are responsible for the lack of bloom in your orchids.
You need to watch out for them and initiate remedial practices to mitigate this risk.
Read on to find out more.
When do Orchids Bloom?
Orchids can bloom at several times of the year. This is largely dependent on their species and the surrounding conditions. Let’s take a look at some of the prominent species of orchids with their expected bloom period.
Here’s a table summarizing the blooming periods of the orchids. If you don’t know the specie of your orchid, we have images of each one after the table.
| Orchid Species | Blooming Period | Duration of Bloom |
|---|---|---|
| Moth Orchid (Phalaenopsis) | Late winter to early spring | Several months |
| Cattleya | Once or twice a year (peak: spring to fall) | 3 weeks |
| Oncidium (Dancing Lady Orchid) | Late fall to winter (can bloom other times) | Several weeks |
| Paphiopedilum (Lady Slipper Orchid) | Once or twice a year (mostly winter to early spring) | A few weeks |
Moth Orchid or Phalaenopsis
This species of orchid blooms once a year between late winter and early spring. Its bloom can last for several months.
Cattleya
It blooms once or twice a year but reaches its bloom peak between spring and fall. Its bloom period lasts for 3 weeks.
Oncidium (Dancing Lady Orchid)
Oncidium blooms between late fall and winter. However, it can bloom at other times of the year, which can last for several weeks.
Paphiopedilum (Lady Slipper Orchid)
This species of orchid blooms once or twice a year – depending on its variety. It mostly blooms between winter and early spring and this lasts for a few weeks.
4 Reasons and Signs Why Your Orchids Will Not Bloom
Whenever your orchids refuse to bloom, it is caused by one of these 4 reasons. Read on to find out.
4 – Pest and Diseases
The negative effect of pests and diseases on crops cannot be overestimated. You must do everything in your power to protect your orchids from this. If not, their growth will be affected and bloom will not happen when it is due.
3 – Improper Fertilization
Whenever your orchid refuses to bloom, it’s caused by a lack of essential nutrients. This is why you must constantly apply the right amount of fertilization. It supplies your plant with the nutrients and energy that are needed for flowering to happen.
2 – Non-suitable weather factors
If your orchids are not exposed to adequate sunlight and air, their growth will be stunted and bloom will not happen. Pay attention to this as well.
1 – Improper Light
When it’s time for your orchid to bloom but you can’t find any flowers, it could be caused by improper or low light exposure. Orchids need bright lights. Don’t plant them in a dark or shady corner.
I hope your orchids bloom like never before!
