Keep orchids alive
How can I look after this orchid that was given to me as a gift?
This is a moth orchid (phalaenopsis). They’re easy to care for in a warm room in good light, but keep them out of direct sunlight. They might look a bit too snug in their pots, but they don’t generally need repotting for at least a year after purchase. The pots are clear because the roots of some orchids can turn green and perform photosynthesis, which aids the plant’s growth. Water the plant once a week, allowing the compost and roots to almost dry out between watering. Don’t let the pot sit in water. Give it a feed at half the recommended strength (or use specialist orchid feed, £2.99 for 175ml) about once every two weeks. When you do repot, use a specialist, more fibrous, orchid compost.