7 Summer Orchid Care Tips

1. Repot When They're in Growth Mode

Late spring into early summer is prime time to refresh tired potting medium. Your orchid is actively growing, so it's a good time to give it fresh potting medium. Repot your orchid when you see new roots and leaves pushing out. Your orchid will use the season's long days to settle in and grow stronger.

2. Feed Light and Often

Use a balanced 20-20-20 fertilizer at half strength once a week. In summer, provide small, regular amounts rather than heavy applications. If you moved your orchid outdoors, give it a small dose of diluted fertilizer after a heavy rain to replenish nutrients that may have been washed away.

3. Chase Bright Light

Outdoors, aim for about 50% shade, such as under a tree canopy, shade cloth, or covered porch. Indoors, place orchids in your brightest window, then move them back slightly if the leaves begin to scorch. More sunlight does not necessarily mean better growth; orchids need the right amount of light.

4. Keep Things Breezy

Air movement is as important as light and water. Outdoors, breezes help keep leaves dry and reduce the risk of plant diseases. Indoors, open windows when possible or run a ceiling or oscillating fan nearby to keep air gently moving around the plants.

5. Don't Overdo Moisture

Never let orchid pots sit in standing water. During rainy weather, move outdoor orchids to a covered location so their roots don't remain soaked. Warm weather combined with constantly wet potting media can quickly lead to root rot.

During summer, check outdoor orchids two to three times a week. Keep them evenly moist and lightly fertilized so the plant can make proper use of the nutrients and water.

6. Watch for Summer Pests

Check the leaves and leaf axils weekly for mealybugs, aphids, and slugs. If you notice pests, a gentle peppermint soap solution can help control them. Outdoors, beneficial insects such as lady beetles can also help reduce populations of mealybugs and aphids.

7. Embrace the Goldilocks Rule

More sun and more fertilizer aren't always better. The key is finding the right balance and maintaining consistent care. Orchids thrive with regular watering, regular feeding, and reasonable light.

Avoid extremes such as constantly fussing over your orchid or completely neglecting it. Consistent care helps orchids stay healthy and grow well throughout summer.