Guide to Caring for Cut Orchids
Orchids are renowned for their stunning beauty and exquisite blooms, making them a popular choice in floral arrangements. To ensure your cut orchids thrive for as long as possible, follow these essential care tips.
1. Choose the Right Vase
Select a clean vase that provides adequate support for the stems. Ensure it is tall enough to accommodate the height of the orchids while giving them enough space to open fully.
2. Prepare the Water
Fill the vase with clean, room temperature water. Ideally, use distilled or filtered water to avoid chemicals found in tap water. Orchids prefer slightly acidic conditions, so adding a few drops of lemon juice can benefit them.
3. Trim the Stems
Before placing the orchids in water, trim the stems at a 45-degree angle. This allows for better water intake. Use a sharp, sterile knife or scissors to avoid crushing the stem.
4. Remove Lower Leaves
To prevent rotting, remove any leaves that will sit below the waterline in the vase. This helps maintain water clarity and prolongs the life of the orchids.
5. Maintain Water Quality
Change the water every few days to keep it fresh. Rinse the vase and stems gently to remove any bacteria or debris. If the water becomes cloudy, change it immediately.
6. Keep in the Right Environment
Place the orchids in a location where they can enjoy indirect sunlight. Direct sunlight can scorch the petals, while overly dim light can hinder their ability to thrive. Aim for a moderate temperature of around 18-24°C.
7. Monitor Humidity
Orchids thrive in humid environments. If the air in your home is dry, consider placing a small humidifier nearby or setting the vase on a tray filled with pebbles and water to increase humidity without allowing the stems to sit in water.
8. Fertilise Sparingly
If you wish to prolong the life of your cut orchids, consider using a specialised orchid fertiliser, but do so sparingly. A diluted solution can be added to the water every few weeks, but avoid over-fertilising as this can damage the flowers.
9. Display with Care
Avoid placing orchids near fruit, as the ethylene gas emitted by ripening fruit can cause flowers to wilt prematurely. Keep them away from heating vents or drafts that may affect temperature and humidity levels.
10. Enjoy and Discard
Cut orchids typically last one to two weeks, depending on the variety and conditions. Once they begin to wilt, compost them to make room for a fresh arrangement.
By following these care tips, you can enjoy the beauty of cut orchids in your home for a longer period.
