For orders placed before 2 PM, we offer same-day flower delivery throughout Istanbul.

How should orchids be cared for?

Writer: Buse Bayraktar Üçer | History: April 25, 2026
How should orchids be cared for?

Orchids, which beautify the living spaces of many of us, stand out with their more demanding care compared to other flowers. The care required varies depending on the type and species of orchid, and plays a key role in ensuring the flowers' longevity.

If you're curious about caring for orchids, one of the most beloved and widely used plants, then this guide is for you! Let's examine the important aspects of orchid care one by one.

Ideal Temperature

If an orchid is to be placed indoors, the ideal room temperature should be between 17-22 degrees Celsius. Orchids love sunny weather, so the room needs to be bright even in winter.

Plant Positioning

We said orchids love the sun, but direct sunlight will damage the leaves of your plant. Placing your orchid in a bright and airy spot will be beneficial. Putting your orchid directly in front of a window is a bad choice because sunlight or wind can damage the plant.

Watering Orchids

Orchids are quite delicate flowers, so their watering needs differ from others. Two methods work well for watering orchids: spraying and immersion. It's also important that the water used is lime-free and that watering is done in the morning.

During the summer months, water the orchid by spraying the soil and leaves, avoiding direct sunlight on the flowers. Removing the orchid from its pot and immersing it in a bucket of water can also be beneficial.

Orchid Pruning

Orchids also need to be pruned from time to time for healthier growth. September and November are the most suitable months for pruning. Pruning removes dead leaves. When pruning, you should remove dead leaves without damaging the stem.

Note these down too!

In addition to the points mentioned above, there are a few more details you shouldn't overlook in orchid care: ventilation. Orchids are very unhealthy when kept in dry, stuffy, and very hot environments. They prefer airy spaces even during the winter months.

Another detail worth noting is that orchids love humidity. You can maintain your orchid's humidity balance by misting it with water.

Special orchid soil is the healthiest soil for the plant. Using a transparent pot is also beneficial for the roots to move freely.

To browse RIBBON's rich selection of Orchid products:

Two-branched orchid:

Fuchsia Orchid Luxe

Orchid and Pomegranate Flower in a Vase

Blue Pink Orchid Bubble Gum

White Orchid in a Glass Vase

Four-Stemmed Orchid:

4 Branches Orchid Pomegranate Flower Quatro

4 Stem Orchid Fuchsia White Quatro

Fuchsia Orchid Quatro

White Orchid Deluxe

6-Stemmed Orchid:

6-Stemmed White Orchid

6-Stemmed Orchid, Blue and Pink

8-Stemmed Orchid:

8-Stemmed Fuchsia Orchid

8-Stemmed Pomegranate Orchid

8-Stemmed White Orchid

8-Stemmed Yellow Orchid

    Share:

    Quick Answer: 3 Key Points for Orchid Care

    • Light: Orchids should be kept in a bright spot away from direct sunlight.
    • Watering: Orchids need airy roots, not soil; water once a week, making sure the roots have completely dried out first.
    • Environment: A humid and warm atmosphere helps orchids live longer.

    Who Makes a Good Recipient for an Orchid Gift?

    Thanks to their long lifespan and elegant look, orchids are a popular choice for both office and home settings. One of the main reasons our workshop sees so many orchid orders is that they stay fresh far longer than other cut flowers. They're a great pick for birthdays, new jobs, get-well wishes, or simply to let someone know you're thinking of them.

    What Environment Suits Orchids Best?

    A spot with minimal temperature fluctuation, away from direct air conditioning or heating vents, is ideal for orchids. Humid areas like kitchens and bathrooms can also work well, as long as the temperature stays balanced.

    How to Care for an Orchid: Step by Step

    1. Place the orchid near a window where it gets indirect light throughout the day.
    2. Once a week, soak the pot in water for a few minutes, then let the excess water drain away.
    3. Regularly trim dried flower stems and yellowed leaves.
    4. Use a liquid fertilizer formulated for orchids once a month.
    5. Green roots mean the plant is healthy, while gray and wrinkled roots signal dehydration — adjust your watering schedule accordingly.
    Tip from our workshop: Always keep an eye on the orchid's roots. Silvery-gray roots mean it's time to water, while bright green roots mean it's still too early.

    What Does Orchid Color Mean?

    Orchid colors take on meaning depending on the recipient and occasion. Below is a table of the most popular colors and their general meanings.

    ColorGeneral MeaningSuitable Occasion
    WhitePurity, eleganceNew baby, wedding, formal congratulations
    PurpleNobility, admirationPromotion, special occasions
    PinkGrace, affectionBirthday, expressions of love
    YellowJoy, friendshipGet well soon, friendship

    Which Orchid Varieties Are Preferred as Gifts?

    Phalaenopsis (the moth orchid) is the most popular variety thanks to its long lifespan and easy care. Dendrobium, on the other hand, offers a different aesthetic with its slender, elegant look. When choosing a gift, it also helps to consider the recipient's experience level; Phalaenopsis is an easier choice for beginners.

    How Should an Orchid Be Presented? Potted or Arranged?

    Orchids are typically presented in their own pot, placed inside a decorative container. In some designs, a single orchid stem accompanies a flower arrangement for a more striking look. For office deliveries, a simple and elegant pot design works well, while decorative potted versions are better suited for home deliveries.

    Presentation StyleSuitable SettingStandout Feature
    Single potted orchidOffice, homeSimple, long-lasting
    Decoratively potted orchidHome, special occasionsVisually richer
    Orchid arrangementOpenings, celebrationsStriking, eye-catching

    How to Choose the Right Size and Budget for an Orchid?

    Orchid selection varies based on the number of stems and pot size. Single-stem orchids are a more budget-friendly option, while multi-stem orchids in larger pots create a more impressive presentation. We recommend considering the size of the space it will be sent to when setting your budget.

    Tip from our workshop: A single stem works well for a desk, while double or triple-stem orchids create a more balanced look for a reception area or living room.

    What's the Difference Between Orchids and Other Potted Plants?

    Unlike most potted plants, orchids don't grow in soil but in bark and special mixes, which completely changes their watering needs. Most potted plants require consistently moist soil, while orchids need their roots to dry out between waterings. Treating an orchid like any other houseplant when it comes to watering is one of the most common mistakes people make.

    When Should You Order an Orchid?

    If you're planning to give an orchid for a special occasion, ordering earlier in the day allows for a smoother design and preparation process. For corporate deliveries, confirming the address and delivery time in advance helps speed things along.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    How often should an orchid be watered?

    Watering once a week is usually enough. Depending on the humidity of the environment, this can extend up to 10 days.

    Why do orchid leaves turn yellow?

    Overwatering, direct sunlight, or naturally aging lower leaves can all cause yellowing. Yellowing leaves aren't always a sign of a problem — sometimes it's simply part of the plant's natural life cycle.

    What should be done after an orchid sheds its flowers?

    Cutting the spent stem above a node, rather than at the base, increases the chances of the plant blooming again.

    Can orchids be placed in direct sunlight?

    No, direct sunlight can burn the leaves. Bright, indirect light is always the better choice.

    Which room is best for keeping an orchid?

    Any room that isn't too hot or too cold and gets indirect light is suitable. Humid spaces like bathrooms and kitchens can also work well.

    Is fertilizing necessary for orchids?

    Yes, using a liquid fertilizer formulated for orchids once a month supports healthy growth.

    How many years can an orchid live?

    With proper care, an orchid can bloom for years, going through periodic rest phases before budding again.

    What does giving an orchid as a gift symbolize?

    It conveys elegance, refinement, and lasting beauty, which is why it's a popular choice for both special occasions and corporate gifts.

    Can orchids be combined with other flowers?

    Yes, orchids are often paired with other flowers, especially in arrangements for openings and celebrations.

    Final Thoughts

    With the right light, proper watering, and a bit of attentiveness, caring for an orchid is actually much easier than it seems. If you're looking for an elegant, long-lasting gift for someone special, feel free to browse our orchid collection — we'd be happy to help you find the perfect option.