In November, the orchid needs special attention to deal with the cold and little light. Discover the essential tips to avoid stress and prepare it for a new flowering.
With the drop in temperatures and the reduction of daylight hours, the needs of orchids change, and adapting care to the season is essential to guarantee their growth. Moving the orchid, managing watering correctly and protecting the plant from heat sources are some of the aspects to consider. With the right precautions, you can keep the orchid thriving even in the coldest months. Let’s see how to intervene to ensure an optimal environment and encourage the next flowering.
Strategic location of the orchid to maximize light in November
In autumn and winter, the decrease in hours of sunlight can represent a challenge for plants such as orchids, which need brightness to carry out photosynthesis correctly. The best solution is to reposition the plant so as to allow it to receive all the natural light available. Placing it near a well-lit window can make the difference between a plant that stays healthy and one that loses vitality.
Although it may seem that the brightness is uniform within the room, for the orchid every small movement towards a light source is significant. If you have a south or east-facing window, this is an ideal place to place it, as long as the sun isn’t too direct, as it could damage the delicate leaves. Correct positioning will help the plant support its vital functions, keep the leaves green and better prepare for the next flowering season.
Care and pruning after flowering
If your orchid has already lost its flowers, it’s time to help it recover with some light, targeted pruning. Cutting dry stems and yellowed leaves is important so as not to weigh down the plant with elements that are no longer useful and to direct all the energy towards the parts that are still vital.
During this phase, it is essential to pay attention to the leaves, which can indicate the health of the plant. Very green and lush leaves indicate that the orchid is in excellent condition; conversely, limp or discolored leaves could reveal a problem that needs monitoring. Remove dried leaves carefully, without forcing, and always check for signs of pests or other disorders.
Reduce orchid watering to avoid stagnation
As temperatures drop, orchids require less water than in the summer months. The cold temperature slows evaporation and the roots retain moisture longer, which means watering must be reduced to avoid water stagnation.
To know when is the right time to water, look at the roots: when they take on a gray color it is a sign that they need hydration, while green indicates that they are still moist. By reducing the frequency of watering, you avoid the risk of rot and preserve the health of the orchid. Remember that each species may have different needs and, if in doubt, it is better to wait rather than water too often.
Heat protection and moisture retention
With the arrival of winter and the use of home heating, the air in rooms tends to become dry, which can be harmful to the orchid. Orchids prefer a humid environment, and the dry air caused by radiators can stress the plant. To avoid damage, keep the orchid away from direct heat sources and try to maintain adequate environmental humidity.
Here are some simple solutions to maintain the necessary humidity:
- Humidifier: Place a small humidifier near the plant to compensate for the dryness of the air.
- Water containers: leave bowls of water on the radiators, so that the water evaporates and humidifies the room.
- Nebulization: lightly spray the leaves of the plant with water, being careful not to overdo it to avoid stagnation.
These precautions will help you create a more favorable microclimate for your orchid, allowing it to stay hydrated and ready to grow even during the harshest months.
Final thoughts for a healthy orchid
Following these tips will allow you to preserve the health of your orchid and prepare it for a new flowering. Remember that each orchid has specific needs, and observing the plant is the best way to understand if you are providing the right attention. By maintaining the right lighting, adapting watering and protecting it from heat, you will help your orchid thrive even in the most difficult periods.
With patience and consistency, you will be able to enjoy a healthy and vigorous plant, ready to surprise with new splendid blooms.
Photo © stock.adobe
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