Orchids Provide Soul-Saving Blooms in the Depth of Winter
If you’ve ever read this blog, you know that my feelings about orchids qualify as a full-blown obsession. If I could get a job doing what Jane Goodall did with silverback apes but with orchids—i.e., spend my entire life in the wilderness observing, learning about, and communing with them—I would. I could spend the rest of my days happily immersed in the world of orchids. One reason I know this about myself is the amount of much-needed joy my blooming orchids provide, especially in the grossest days of winter.
Joelle’s blooming phalaenopsis
Sure, having 18 orchids a little bit time consuming (not that I mind—I’m an admitted putzer and futzer when it comes to plant care). The best part is that at least one of my orchids is in bloom all the time, all year round. Whichever orchid(s) that is gets moved to the middle of the kitchen table so it can properly show off.
Most orchids are tropical plants, so one might assume that they’d struggle during winter. They certainly can, especially if they don’t get enough light or humidity (as many of the orchids given as Valentine’s Day gifts inevitably will). But lower nighttime temperatures are key to inducing orchid blooms, so colder weather can actually coax out the beauty.
I’ll start with my weirdest orchid, a sophronitis cernua that I bought at an orchid show a few years ago, which is also the one I’m most proud of. This orchid, which is native to central South America, has bloomed now twice in my care (the first time was about 18 months ago). This time, it has graced me with multiple blooms. These tiny, delicate flowers are the most vibrant orange color. Wood-mounted orchids require more watering than potted ones, as the water dries and evaporates more quickly. I dunk this once a week and spray it on the other days.
Joelle’s blooming chocolate chip dendobrium
The dendobrium genus has over 2,000 species, and over the past few years I’ve seen themmuch more frequently at box stores and greenhouses. Their structure is different from phalaenopsis orchids, as they grow in canes, but they’re relatively straightforward to maintain and appreciate the same care as other epiphytic orchids. I love their delicate look—an impressionist painter might’ve created these flowers!
Close-up of dendobrium blooms
Last but not least, I have a phalaenopsis in full bloom (three of my other phalaenopsis orchids are in spike and will flower soon). Just because these are the most common orchids doesn’t mean they’re any less special or beautiful. This particular orchid is near and dear to my heart because it was a Valentine’s Day gift from my partner a number of years ago. Unfortunately, as often happens, the plant wasn’t packaged well and got cold damage in transit. Its leaves were reduced to mush and I wasn’t sure it would survive, but I gave it the orchid ICU treatment. I cut off dead/mushy leaves and roots and put it in sphagnum moss in my greenhouse, where I kept it at a consistent temperature, humidity level (~70%), and put it under a grow light.
Joelle’s blooming phalaenopsis, back from the almost-dead
It took a few months, but roots started growing, then leaves, and then, after about a year, its first set of blooms. Now it flowers annually and provides a lovely spot of color on the kitchen table. The deep magenta color is magnificent, and the blooms last for months. It’s a perfect reward for surviving these dark, cold months.
