As with many other types of indoor plants, Orchids have very specific requirements in terms of water, nutrition and lighting. Probably the most important of these factors is the type of light that your orchid is receiving.
Different species of orchids require different amounts of light. Orchids usually prefer a large amount of diffused light as found in their natural tropical habitats around the world. This gives them cooler light in the morning and protects them from strong sunlight in the afternoon, to simulate this you can sit your orchid near an eastern facing window. Ideally your orchid should get approximately twelve hours of light per day, however due to strong sunlight in the afternoon this is not always ideal.
You should aim to find out as much information as possible about your particular species of orchid so you know what light and shade ratio will work to produce the best results. There a few ways you can do this.
The simplest and most obvious of these is to ask the vendor who sold you your orchid. They should be able to provide you with much of the relevant information you need to make an informed decision. Another method is to look up the information online while you are researching which orchid would be the best choice for you before you make a purchase.
You will find that some orchids will enjoy a lot of sunlight while other orchid species prefer far more shade. Typically speaking, orchids that will thrive in sunny conditions will require more care and attention, but will produce large frequent booms although they may be shorter and their leaves may also appear slightly smaller and yellow. On the flip side orchid species that will thrive in much more shaded growing conditions can provide a wonderful healthy plant but may produce smaller more infrequent blooms.
An artificial light source called a grow-light combined with a timer can help ensure that your orchid receives the right amount of light relatively hands free for a small extra cost. Fluorescent lights can offer your orchids a good light source that is not too strong. Check with your orchid vendor to find out kind of light would suit your species of orchid best.
Coupled with natural sunlight and a full understanding of your orchid species, artificial lighting can help you produce a healthy orchid that will produce gorgeous blooms throughout its season.
For a long time it was believed that only highly experienced horticulturists could get beautiful results from their orchids but, using these methods to provide the right kind of light for your orchid, even beginners can grow fantastic, healthy, beautiful orchids.
