Before heading off on vacation, make sure your orchids are well taken care of, especially during the hot summer months. If you forget to properly prepare them, you may return to find your orchid dead. Here’s how to keep your orchid healthy while you’re away.
Why Orchids Are Special Plants
Orchids are tropical plants known for their stunning, colorful flowers. Originally considered a luxury plant requiring specific conditions, they now come in many varieties, some of which can adapt to European climates. Despite their popularity, orchids are still delicate, needing proper care—especially in the summer heat.
Caring for Orchids Before Vacation
If your vacation lasts less than 7 days, your orchid can usually stay home alone, but a little preparation will ensure it survives without suffering from thirst or heat stress. Here’s what you need to do:
1. Water Your Orchid from Below
Proper watering is crucial, especially during the heat of summer. To ensure your orchid stays hydrated while you’re gone, use the immersion method. Place the pot in a basin of water for at least 30 minutes. This allows the orchid to absorb water through the drainage holes, keeping it humid for a longer period.
2. Provide Extra Light
Orchids typically thrive in indirect light, so be sure not to place them in direct sunlight. However, a few days before leaving, give your orchid a light boost by placing it in indirect sunlight for a few hours. This will help “recharge” the plant without the risk of sunburn.
3. Don’t Leave It in the Dark
Though orchids are indoor plants, they still need light for photosynthesis. Never leave them in total darkness for extended periods. Before you leave, don’t close all the shutters in the room where the orchids are located. Keep some light coming through to maintain the photosynthesis process, which is vital for the plant’s health.
4. Give It an Energy Boost
For extra support, fertilize your orchid just before you leave. Use a balanced fertilizer with potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen. These nutrients will provide the orchid with a much-needed energy boost, helping it thrive while you’re away.
What to Do If You’re Away for More Than 7 Days
If your vacation lasts more than a week and you don’t have anyone nearby to water your plant, try the string trick. Here’s how:
- Take some woven cotton threads and place one end in the orchid’s pot and the other in a basin of water.
- The water will gradually be drawn through the threads and into the pot, providing a slow, steady supply of moisture to your orchid during your absence.
This simple method ensures that your orchid stays hydrated, even if you’re gone for an extended period.
Conclusion
With a little preparation and care, you can ensure your orchid survives the summer heat and stays healthy while you’re away. Remember, giving it enough water, light, and a nutrient boost will help your orchid thrive in your absence, and you’ll return to find it blooming beautifully, not wilting from neglect.
