If you think orchids are just for fancy outdoor gardens, think again! I tried caring for orchids, specifically indoor Laelia orchids, and the results were amazing! You might want to do it too but don't know exactly how to take care of them. You're in the right place! I've written down some tips for Laelia orchid care indoors. You'll surely see those flower blossoms soon if you follow this guide!
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Water
Watering your Laelia orchid is key to keeping it happy and healthy. I've learned that sticking to a weekly watering schedule is the best way to ensure it keeps growing beautifully.
Besides, the plant comes from a high-altitude cloud forest. Therefore, the plant is happy with consistent humidity. But the great thing is that this type of orchid can survive a short dry season. I usually place my pots in a tray filled with watered pebbles to create a moist environment.
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Light
This part might be a bit tricky. For your information, Laelia orchids grow under partial sunlight. That means they like bright, indirect light or a bit of shade. Too much direct sunlight can burn the leaves.
An east-facing window is perfect for the indoor plant. It offers a few hours of morning sunlight while protecting it from the hot afternoon sun. One of the best tips for growing Laelia orchids is finding that sweet light spot to ensure vibrant flowers and healthy growth.
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Temperature
You can take note of this! Keeping the temperature between 20-38℃ is very good for Laelia orchid. These plants can tolerate a wide range from 5-43℃. But extreme temperatures can stress them out. So, make sure the room temperature is always in the right range to prevent them from wilting or darkening.
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Soil
Laelia orchids thrive in well-aerated, quick-draining soil. I use orchid mix soil for best results. You can make your own by combining bark chips, coarse peat, and perlite. But make sure there is no waterlogging! Thus, you can use shallow pots with drainage holes. Moreover, the soil pH should be between 6-7.5 for optimal health.
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Fertilization
This may confuse you. But I can clear that up for you. Using a high-phosphorus formula is very helpful in increasing the vitality of the flowers. I fertilize every two weeks during the active growth phase, usually spring to fall. Use a quarter-strength dose to avoid burns to the roots. If your plant is in the dormancy phase, you can reduce fertilization to once a month.
Conclusion
Well, this little diva does require some care. You must take care of the humidity, light, and soil quality to be rewarded with those stunning blooms. It's not as complicated as it sounds, just a few steps to ensure your Laelia orchid thrives. Learn my tips growing Laelia orchids, and your plant will thrive!