How Long Does It Take For Orchids To Rebloom?

There are between 25,000 and 30,000 species of orchids, making it one of the largest families of flowering plants in the world. Once rare and expensive, this beautiful, exotic flower has become a popular houseplant—even for beginner growers. With the right care, they can last a long time, and getting them to rebloom after their resting period is not as daunting as it may seem.

How Often Do Orchids Bloom?

Most orchids will only bloom once a year, though some orchids can bloom more than this.

There are certain species, such as the Phalaenopsis orchid (also known as moth orchids), which will readily bloom every few months. However, most orchids are limited to blooming once or twice a year.

Depending on the type of orchid, the flowers can last anywhere from several days to several weeks. The happier an orchid is, the longer the flower will last.

What To Do With An Orchid After The Blooms Fall Off

After an orchid’s blooming cycle, its flowers will wilt and fall off. Don’t panic; your orchid is not dying! That is simply how the life cycle of an orchid goes.

Once your flower begins to wilt and drop off, the spike (stem) can be cut. Prune the spike off at the base with sharp scissors, avoiding contact with the leaves or roots.

Phalaenopsis orchids are the exception, as they often produce flowers from the same spike more than once. However, other orchids will need to grow new flower spikes.

Between flowering, your orchid will put its energy toward growing new leaves. You may also notice orchid roots escaping the pot, which means it’s time for repotting. Choose a well-draining potting mix specifically for orchids. These usually contain large chunks of bark, peat moss, moss, and other coarse organic matter.

Can You Force An Orchid To Rebloom?

If your orchid has lost its flower and isn’t showing signs of new growth, there are some things you can do to help your orchid rebloom.

• Ensure it is getting the right amount of light. It needs to receive enough light (fluorescent light will also do). Make sure that your plant is in indirect light and not direct sunlight. If your plant is not reblooming, try moving it to an eastward- or westward-facing windowsill.

• Try moving it to a cooler spot. Though they prefer moderate temperatures in bloom, orchid plants prefer temperatures of 55-65 degrees Fahrenheit during their dormant stage.

• Fertilize your plant. Your orchid will require a special orchid fertilizer or balanced fertilizer (20-20-20). Depending on the type of orchid, you will want to fertilize either weekly or monthly.

How Many Times Can Orchids Rebloom?

Orchids have a relatively long lifespan. They have been known to live between 10 and 15 years with proper plant care.

Depending on the species of orchid, they may rebloom once or twice a year. Some orchids may rebloom around 30 times in their lives.

Orchid Care To Encourage Reblooming

Orchid care is relatively simple and straightforward.

• Place your orchid in bright, indirect sunlight. Avoid direct sunlight, which can scorch your orchid’s leaves and cause brown or black tips.

• Keep the temperature between 65 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit, though they can stand nighttime temperatures as low as 60 degrees and daytime temperatures as high as 85 degrees. Of course, this depends on the type of orchid you are growing.

• Water orchids once every one to two weeks. Once the soil begins to feel dry, it is time for water. To water, you can take your orchid out of its pot and place it into a grower’s pot. Then, place it under a slow-running tap for 10-15 seconds, watering both sides, but avoiding the leaves and crown.

Another easy way to water your orchid is with ice cubes. Place 2-3 ice cubes at the base of the plant and allow them to melt. This is a good way to avoid overwatering your orchid as well.

Avoid watering orchids from the top. When you’re done watering, use a mitten or microfiber towel to dry the leaves. The large and waxy green leaves are prone to mold and fungus if wet.