How to Keep Orchids

Orchids are really easy to keep, if you follow some simple rules.

All these orchids are on a windowsill outside my bathroom upstairs.

Here are my four rules for keeping orchids.

Orchids need a bright windowsill, but no direct sunlight, or at least very little. This is most important.

They need misting regularly.

Outside the bathroom they get some steam from the shower. Or in a kitchen they like the steam from the hot water in the washing up bowl. But you can do it with a mister.

Feed them with a little fertiliser like Baby Bio. I don't think they need special orchid food. Water regularly but sparingly.

Orchids come in transparent pots. The roots like light, so I think it's best not to put the transparent pot into a decorative ceramic pot, even though it may look tidier.

And don't cut off a flower spike when it finishes flowering. More spikes may grow from it. Wait until the spike dies down before you cut it off. The flower spike will need supporting with a green stick.

And if all this seems too much trouble, then treat an orchid like a long-lasting cut flower, and enjoy!