Orchid Lighting Requirements
With as many varieties of orchids as there are, there are almost as many differing light requirements for each orchid; by understanding the amount of light that your specific orchid requires you will be able to ensure the health and overall well being of your orchids. Orchid lighting can be a bit tricky to perfect; however, with a bit of careful research and a fair amount of trial and error, you are certain to find success for your orchids and be able to enjoy bloom after bloom!
Identifying Problems
If your orchid lighting is not adequate for the specific needs of your plants, you will start to notice a few key telltale signs of stress on the plants.
Too Little Light
- Your orchid’s root system will be thin, string, and too fine.
- Your orchid’s leaves will be dark green and dull in appearance.
- Your orchid has not bloomed for some time.
- Your orchid does not look vibrant and healthy.
Too Much Light
- Your orchid’s leaves have burnt edges or spots on them.
- Your orchid’s leaves turn varying shades of yellow, brown, and ultimately drop off of the plants.
- Your orchid’s leaves are taking on a reddish green hue.
- Your orchid’s leaves are warm to the touch.
In situations that involve an overdose of direct sunlight, and the accompanying heat, you are much more likely to lose your orchids than in those that involve lower-light situations. Pay careful attention to the health of your orchid’s leaves to ensure the overall survival and good health of your orchids.
Remedying The Situation
By understanding the unique lighting requirements of your specific orchids you will have a better understanding of where your orchids should be placed within your home. For orchids that enjoy higher levels of light they can be best served by placing them in a shaded area in your garden that will provide them with a solid amount of the bright light that they crave.
It is important to note that several high-light-loving orchids will not thrive and bloom without the addition of a supplemental light source.
There are many fluorescent plant lights readily available on the market to help you provide that extra light to your indoor plants. African violets may also benefit from this additional light! To help your plants survive the winter you should consider using the artificial sources of light just to help them get that extra light and warmth that they require for optimal health and longevity.
If you are not sure which orchid you have, or what your specific orchid lighting requirements may be, then consider moving your plants around the various windows in your home until you find one that can provide it with the ideal amount of light.
A Healthy Orchid
If your orchid lighting is at optimal levels within your home then you will be able to see the results reflected in the health of your orchids.
- Your orchid’s leaves should be bright green and vibrant.
- Your orchid should bloom regularly
- Your orchid should have constant new growth.
By following a good set of instructional guidelines for the care of your orchids and having a solid understanding of your orchid lighting requirements, you will be able to see direct results as your orchids offer you elegant bloom after elegant bloom!
