Make Orchids the Easiest House Plant You Grow This Year

My Bathroom Counter Every Spring

Spring time in southern California brings blooms of all kinds, but the easiest and most stunning in my opinion is the orchid, specifically the phalaenopsis (pictured above). Living in our temperate climate gives anyone, novice gardener to orchid enthusiast, the chance to grow and experience one of natures most beloved blooms. The key to orchid success (blooms) is neglect. Yes I said it, but the more you ignore these tough beauties the more likely they will bloom out of desperation. It sounds a little harsh, but the reality is, most plants bloom in order to reproduce or die.

There is a time and a place for proper orchid maintenance. I own not one but 3 orchid care books, however, in my busy life, there is no time or place for anything other than an occasional watering, and passionate admiration. Proper orchid care focuses on light, temperature, humidity, water and fertilizer. Here in sunny So Cal, a bright, south facing room with plenty of indirect sunshine will be enough light and heat for most phalaenopsis. Pro Tip: If you have a bright, bathroom or kitchen, the humidity of these areas will greatly enhance your orchids growth. Throw in a deep soak every month or two and watch how these hearty plants pump out a bloom all on their own. In fact overwatering is one of the top contributors to orchid death.