How to Care for Orchids in the UK
A complete beginner friendly guide to orchid care
Orchids are one of the most popular houseplants in the UK. We love them for their elegant flowers, long-lasting blooms, and surprisingly simple care requirements. While many people think orchids are difficult to grow, most indoor varieties are actually rather easy to look after once you understand the basics.
Whether you’re new to houseplants or you’re already growing orchids at home, this guide covers everything you need to know to keep your orchids healthy and flowering for longer.
Quick Orchid Care Tips
If you don’t have long, here is a quick overview of the basics of orchid care:
- Place orchids in bright, indirect light
- Water every 7–10 days
- Avoid overwatering
- Keep orchids away from radiators and cold draughts
- Use orchid-specific compost and pots where possible
Most orchids grown indoors in the UK are Phalaenopsis orchids (moth orchids), which are one of the easiest orchid varieties to care for.
Where Should Orchids Be Placed?
Orchids grow the best in bright rooms with indirect sunlight. A windowsill with filtered light is usually ideal, especially in east or west-facing rooms.
Avoid:
- Direct midday sunlight
- Cold draughts
- Placing orchids close to radiators or heaters
Orchids prefer stable indoor temperatures and good airflow without extreme heat or cold drafts.
How Often Should You Water Orchids?
One of the most common mistakes with orchids is overwatering. In most homes, orchids only need watering every 7–10 days.
A good rule is:
- Water less in winter
- Water slightly more during warmer months
- Allow roots to dry slightly between watering
If the roots appear green, the orchid usually has enough moisture. Silvery-grey roots often mean the plant is ready for watering.
Avoid leaving orchids sitting in water, as this can lead to root rot. Also make sure to avoid getting water on the leaves of your orchids as most orchids don’t like it.
One of my favourite methods for watering is to fill the sink (or bath if you have loads of orchids) to just below the height of your orchid pots and then place them in to soak for around 30 minuets. After they have soaked, let them drain off and ensure any excess water is gone before placing them back in their chosen location.
What Is the Best Temperature for Orchids?
Most indoor orchids thrive in temperatures between 18°C and 25°C (a bit like us!), making them ideal houseplants for most homes.
Orchids generally prefer:
- Warm days
- Slightly cooler nights
- Moderate humidity levels
Bathrooms and kitchens can work well thanks to the additional moisture in the air.
Why Is My Orchid Not Flowering?
If your orchid has stopped flowering there’s no need to panic – this is completely normal. Orchids, like most flowers, naturally go through flowering and resting periods.
Common reasons orchids stop flowering include:
- Not enough light
- Overwatering
- Temperature stress
- Lack of nutrients
With proper care, many orchids will flower again once new growth develops.
Best Orchids for Beginners
If you’re new to keeping orchids, Phalaenopsis orchids are usually the best place to start. They are:
- Easy to care for
- Have a long flowering period
- Well suited to indoor conditions
- Available in a wide range of colours to match all homes
These orchids are perfect for homes, offices, and gifts, making them one of the most popular houseplants in the UK.
Common Orchid Care Mistakes
To keep orchids healthy, try to avoid these common problems:
- Overwatering – Too much water is the biggest cause of orchid problems.
- Direct Sunlight – Strong direct sunlight can scorch leaves and flowers.
- Poor Drainage – Orchids need airflow around their roots and should not sit in soggy compost.
- Sudden Temperature Changes – Cold draughts or heat from radiators can stress orchids.
Shop Orchids Online
Looking for healthy indoor orchids that are easy to care for? Explore our collection of long-lasting orchids from trusted UK sellers, perfect for brightening homes, offices, and indoor spaces.
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